The Best Private Schools in Washington, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Washington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Washington School
Independent
Washington School is a premier independent college preparatory school serving the Washington and broader Greenville area. Founded in 1974, the school has established itself as one of the top academic institutions in the Mississippi Delta region. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive arts and athletics offerings. With small class sizes averaging 15 students, Washington School provides individualized attention and maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic complexes. The school serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and is known for its strong community values and academic excellence.
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St. Joseph Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Jackson
St. Joseph Catholic School has been serving the Washington and Greenville community since 1953, providing exceptional faith-based education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school combines rigorous academic preparation with Catholic values and traditions. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes honors and advanced placement courses, extensive fine arts programs, and competitive athletic teams. The school maintains small class sizes and features modern technology integration throughout all grade levels. With a strong emphasis on character development and community service, St. Joseph graduates consistently excel in college admissions and beyond. The school's historic campus has been continuously updated with modern facilities while maintaining its traditional values.
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Deer Creek School
Independent
Located just minutes from Washington in nearby Leland, Deer Creek School has been providing quality education to students throughout the Mississippi Delta since 1978. The school offers a complete K-12 educational experience with a strong focus on college preparation and character development. Deer Creek features a unique agricultural science program that leverages the region's farming heritage while incorporating modern STEM applications. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and offers comprehensive athletic and extracurricular programs. With a beautiful campus that includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, and athletic facilities, Deer Creek provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in college and careers. The school serves families from Washington, Leland, and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Washington, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options available for K-12 education in Washington, Mississippi, and what are their educational affiliations?
In Washington, MS, families have three primary private school options. Washington School is a prominent independent college-preparatory day school serving grades PK-12. St. Joseph Catholic School offers a faith-based education rooted in the Catholic tradition, typically covering elementary and middle grades. Deer Creek School is another established private institution. These schools provide alternatives to the local public school system, with each having distinct philosophies—college-prep, religious, and traditional private education. Given the small number of options, it's advisable to tour each to understand their specific campus cultures and curricular strengths.
How does tuition at private schools in Washington, MS, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in Washington, MS, is generally below the national average for private education but should be evaluated relative to local median income. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at these schools often ranges from approximately $5,000 to $10,000 annually, varying by grade level and institution. Mississippi has limited state-sponsored voucher or tax-credit programs compared to some states, but the schools themselves may offer need-based financial aid, sibling discounts, or payment plans. It's crucial to inquire directly with Washington School, St. Joseph, and Deer Creek about their specific aid applications and deadlines, as opportunities can be school-dependent.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Washington, MS, offer that leverage the local history and culture?
Private schools in Washington, MS, often integrate the rich local history of the Natchez region into their curricula. Given Washington's status as a historic village and former territorial capital, programs may include local history units on the Mississippi Territory, field trips to the Historic Jefferson College site nearby, and stewardship projects related to local preservation. Schools like Washington School might emphasize Southern literature or agricultural science, reflecting the area's heritage. Extracurriculars such as equestrian clubs, fishing teams, or history bowl competitions can also be distinctive offerings that connect students to the community and environment of southwestern Mississippi.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Washington, Mississippi, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for private schools in Washington, MS, usually begins in the winter prior to the desired fall start date. Key steps often include an open house (often between January and March), submission of an application with records, a student assessment or shadow day, and a family interview. Given the small size of these schools and limited seats, especially in popular grade levels, it is common for competitive entry grades to have waitlists by early spring. We strongly recommend initiating inquiries by November or December. Some schools may offer rolling admission if spaces remain, but early application is advantageous in this close-knit educational market.
For families considering both sectors, what are the notable differences between private and public schools in Washington, Mississippi, regarding class size, standardized testing, and college preparation?
The most significant differences lie in scale, resources, and focus. Private schools in Washington, MS, such as Washington School, typically feature much smaller class sizes (often 15:1 or lower) compared to local public schools, allowing for personalized attention. Academically, private schools often have more flexibility in curriculum design, potentially offering advanced tracks or specialized courses not available in the public system due to funding or enrollment constraints. In terms of outcomes, private schools in the area frequently emphasize college preparation, with dedicated counseling, while public schools adhere to Mississippi state assessment and accountability standards. However, public schools provide tuition-free education and may offer a broader range of federal programs and services. The choice often hinges on a family's priority for individualized college-prep versus the comprehensive, no-cost public education model.
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