The Best Private Schools in Ridgeland, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Ridgeland. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Jackson Academy
Jackson Academy
Jackson Academy is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving the greater Jackson metro area, including Ridgeland. Founded in 1959, JA offers a comprehensive educational experience from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school features a rigorous academic curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement offerings, state-of-the-art facilities including modern STEM labs and performing arts centers, and competitive athletic programs. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Jackson Academy maintains a strong track record of college placements and student success. The campus spans 52 acres with recently renovated facilities and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
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Jackson Preparatory School
Jackson Preparatory School
Jackson Preparatory School is an acclaimed independent college preparatory school serving students from Ridgeland and throughout the Jackson metropolitan area. Established in 1970, Prep offers a challenging academic environment with extensive Advanced Placement and honors courses, particularly strong in mathematics and sciences. The school features outstanding facilities including modern science laboratories, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic complexes. Jackson Prep is known for its competitive academic teams, championship athletic programs, and comprehensive arts curriculum. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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St. Andrew's Episcopal School
St. Andrew's Episcopal School
St. Andrew's Episcopal School is a prestigious independent school serving the Ridgeland community and greater Jackson area with a reputation for academic excellence and inclusive community values. Founded in 1947, St. Andrew's offers the International Baccalaureate program alongside traditional college preparatory curriculum. The school emphasizes critical thinking, global perspective, and character development through its honor code and extensive service learning programs. Facilities include advanced science and technology labs, performing arts centers, and athletic facilities. St. Andrew's is particularly noted for its strong arts programs, competitive athletics, and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for top colleges and universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Ridgeland, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options serving families in Ridgeland, Mississippi, and are they located within the city limits?
The leading private schools for Ridgeland residents are Jackson Academy, Jackson Preparatory School, and St. Andrew's Episcopal School. It's important to note that while these are the top-regarded options, their campuses are primarily located in the neighboring city of Jackson, MS, with some facilities or divisions in Flowood. Ridgeland itself has fewer large, independent private campuses, making a commute into the Jackson metro area common for families seeking these specific institutions. Many Ridgeland families choose these schools for their strong academic reputations, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and college preparatory focus.
How does tuition for top private schools in the Ridgeland/Jackson area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for schools like Jackson Prep, Jackson Academy, and St. Andrew's typically ranges from approximately $15,000 to $22,000 per year for middle and upper school, which is above the Mississippi private school average. These schools offer need-based financial aid programs, and some may have limited merit-based scholarships. Mississippi also has two unique state-level programs that can help offset costs: the Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which provides state funds for eligible students to attend private schools, and tax-credit scholarships. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their specific aid applications and deadlines, as well as guidance on applying for state programs.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are notable at the private schools accessible from Ridgeland, MS?
Schools serving the Ridgeland community offer distinct specializations. Jackson Preparatory School is renowned for its robust engineering and STEM initiatives. St. Andrew's Episcopal School emphasizes a global, interdisciplinary education with strong arts and service-learning programs, including its unique Centers system. Jackson Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum with notable strengths in business and entrepreneurship programs, along with extensive athletic facilities. All three schools provide advanced placement (AP) and honors courses, competitive athletics in the MAIS (Mississippi Association of Independent Schools), and fine arts. The choice often depends on whether a family prioritizes a STEM focus, a liberal arts/global perspective, or a traditional college-prep model with broad extracurriculars.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Jackson metro area, like those Ridgeland families consider?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For primary entry points (Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades), applications often open in August or September for the following academic year, with deadlines typically falling between January and March. The process usually includes a completed application, standardized testing (such as the ISEE or school-specific assessments), school records, teacher recommendations, and a family/student interview. Rolling admissions may be available for other grades if space permits, but waiting lists are common. Ridgeland parents are advised to start researching and attending open houses in the fall, as spaces at these sought-after schools fill quickly.
For a family living in Ridgeland, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public schools (Madison County School District) to the leading private options in Jackson?
The decision hinges on several factors specific to the area. Madison County Schools are consistently high-performing, often ranked among the best public districts in Mississippi, offering a strong education with no tuition. Choosing a private school in Jackson typically involves a commute and significant financial investment but may offer smaller class sizes, a specific religious or pedagogical ethos (like St. Andrew's Episcopal identity), and specialized programs not available in the public system. Additionally, the private school environment often has a distinct campus culture and potentially more extensive resources in certain areas like athletics or arts facilities. Families should weigh the value of the commute, financial impact, and desired educational approach against the excellent, tuition-free option provided by the highly-rated local public schools.
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