The Best Private Schools in Sumrall, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Sumrall. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Sacred Heart Catholic School
Diocese of Biloxi Catholic Schools
Sacred Heart Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the Sumrall area from nearby Hattiesburg. Established in 1952, this Diocesan school offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong college preparatory curriculum. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a values-based education rooted in Catholic tradition. The school maintains exceptional academic standards with graduates consistently accepted to top universities. Extracurricular offerings include competitive athletics, fine arts programs, and numerous clubs.
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Presbyterian Christian School
Independent Christian School
Presbyterian Christian School serves Sumrall families from its Hattiesburg campus, offering a comprehensive Christian education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Founded in 1993, PCS has built a reputation for academic excellence combined with strong spiritual development. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including modern classrooms, science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. The curriculum emphasizes college preparation with Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment options. PCS offers robust athletic programs competing in the MAIS league and extensive fine arts opportunities including band, choir, and visual arts.
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Oak Grove Academy
Private Independent School
Oak Grove Academy provides private education services to Sumrall area students from its Hattiesburg location. Established in 2005, this independent school offers personalized education with small class sizes and individualized attention. The school serves students from elementary through high school with a strong emphasis on college preparation and STEM education. Facilities include modern classrooms, technology labs, and collaborative learning spaces. The academy focuses on developing critical thinking skills and offers a balanced curriculum that includes arts, athletics, and academic enrichment. Parent satisfaction is high due to the school's commitment to student success and flexible learning approaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Sumrall, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Sumrall, Mississippi?
While Sumrall itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby Hattiesburg for the closest private school options. The most frequently considered schools include Sacred Heart Catholic School (K-8) in Hattiesburg, which is a popular choice for its faith-based education and community. Presbyterian Christian School (PCS) in Hattiesburg offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade program with a strong college-prep focus and athletic programs. Oak Grove Academy, located in the Oak Grove area of Hattiesburg, provides a private, non-denominational Christian education. For Sumrall residents, these schools involve a commute but are the primary alternatives to the local public school system.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Sumrall/Hattiesburg area compare to state averages, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for the primary private schools serving Sumrall families generally ranges from approximately $6,000 to $10,000+ per year, depending on the grade level and school. This is often below the national private school average but is a significant consideration for Mississippi households. All major schools, including Sacred Heart, PCS, and Oak Grove Academy, offer need-based financial aid or tuition assistance programs. Additionally, Mississippi's Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program can provide state-funded accounts for eligible students to use for private school tuition and other educational expenses, which is a critical financial factor for many Mississippi families to explore.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Sumrall offer that differentiate them?
Schools in the Hattiesburg area catering to Sumrall students offer distinct programs. Presbyterian Christian School is known for its robust Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings, fine arts programs, and competitive athletic leagues. Sacred Heart Catholic School provides a strong foundation in Catholic values integrated throughout its curriculum and often has smaller class sizes. Oak Grove Academy emphasizes a classical Christian education model and character development. A unique local consideration is the proximity to the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in Hattiesburg, which some private schools leverage for partnerships, dual-enrollment opportunities for older students, or special academic resources.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Sumrall community?
The enrollment process for schools like Sacred Heart, PCS, and Oak Grove Academy usually begins in the winter or early spring for the following academic year. It is highly recommended to contact admissions offices by January or February, as spaces, particularly in lower grades, can fill quickly. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall. For Sumrall families, planning for transportation is a key part of the process, as these schools are not centrally located in Sumrall but in Hattiesburg, requiring a daily commute.
For a family in Sumrall, what are the main factors to consider when choosing between the local public schools and a private school in Hattiesburg?
The decision often centers on several Sumrall-specific factors. The Sumrall Attendance Center (public K-12) offers the convenience of a very short commute and strong community ties. Choosing a private school in Hattiesburg involves a commitment to daily transportation (a 15-25 minute drive) for access to a specific religious education, different curricular approaches (like classical or college-prep intensive), or alternative extracurricular offerings. Families should weigh the tuition cost against the perceived benefits, and consider how the Mississippi ESA program might offset expenses. The sense of community is also different; Sumrall public schools are neighborhood-centric, while private schools create communities based on shared values or educational goals across a wider geographic area.
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