The Best Private Schools in Weare, New Hampshire
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Weare. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Derryfield School
Independent School
The Derryfield School is a highly-regarded coeducational independent day school serving students in grades 6-12. Located approximately 20 minutes from Weare, it offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and individualized attention. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. With a strong emphasis on character development and academic excellence, Derryfield consistently sends graduates to top-tier colleges and universities. The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including competitive athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service programs.
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The Founders Academy
Public Charter School (Tuition-free)
The Founders Academy is a public charter school offering a tuition-free classical education model that serves students from Weare and surrounding communities. Located in Manchester, approximately 15-20 minutes from Weare, the school emphasizes leadership development, civic responsibility, and academic rigor through a classical curriculum. The academy serves grades 6-12 and focuses on developing critical thinking skills through the study of great works of literature, history, and philosophy. While technically a charter school, it operates with the selectivity and academic focus of private institutions, making it a popular choice for families seeking rigorous education without tuition costs.
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Holy Family Academy
Diocese of Manchester
Holy Family Academy is a private Catholic school serving students from preschool through grade 12, located approximately 20 minutes from Weare in Manchester. The school provides a faith-based education combined with strong academic programs, including advanced STEM courses and fine arts. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Holy Family emphasizes character formation alongside academic achievement. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program and maintains strong community ties, making it a respected educational option for families throughout the Greater Manchester area, including Weare residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Weare, New Hampshire
Are there any private schools physically located within the town of Weare, New Hampshire, or will we need to commute to neighboring towns?
There are no major, traditional private K-12 day schools with campuses physically located within the town limits of Weare. Families in Weare typically commute to private schools in nearby communities. Notable options include The Derryfield School in Manchester (approximately a 25-minute drive), The Founders Academy charter public school in Manchester (which has a lottery-based enrollment), and Holy Family Academy, a private Catholic school also in Manchester. Some families also explore options in Concord, Goffstown, or Bedford.
What is the typical tuition range for private schools accessible from Weare, NH, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for the private schools serving Weare families varies significantly. For example, The Derryfield School's tuition is approximately $40,000+ for upper school, while Holy Family Academy is closer to $10,000-$15,000. New Hampshire offers the "Education Tax Credit" program, which provides scholarships for eligible students to attend private schools. Donations from businesses to scholarship organizations fund these awards, which can significantly offset tuition costs. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their financial aid packages and scholarship opportunities, including need-based aid.
How do the academic and extracurricular offerings at private schools near Weare, like The Derryfield School, compare to the Weare public school district?
Private schools near Weare often offer distinct academic structures and specialized programs. The Derryfield School, for instance, is known for its rigorous college-prep curriculum, small class sizes, and extensive arts and athletics. Weare's public schools (part of SAU 24) provide a solid education but with typically larger class sizes and fewer niche elective options. A key differentiator is choice and focus; a private school may offer a specific pedagogical approach (like classical education at The Founders Academy) or a faith-based environment (Holy Family Academy) that isn't available in the public system. The trade-off involves cost and commute.
What are the key enrollment timelines and application deadlines for private schools in the Manchester/Concord area that Weare families apply to?
Timelines for the schools accessible from Weare generally follow the independent school calendar. For fall admission, the application process often begins in the prior September/October, with deadlines typically between January and February. For example, The Derryfield School usually has a January application deadline for the following academic year. It is critical to start the process 12-18 months in advance for competitive schools. This includes touring, testing (like the SSAT or ISEE), and submitting applications. The Founders Academy, as a public charter, operates on a separate lottery-based timeline, with application windows typically in the winter.
Given Weare's semi-rural setting, what transportation options are available for students commuting to private schools in Manchester or Concord?
Transportation is a primary logistical consideration for Weare families. Most private schools in the area do not provide bus transportation from Weare. Families typically form carpools with other local students or drive their children daily, which is a significant time commitment. Some schools may have private bus services for an additional fee that serve specific regional hubs, but coverage for a town like Weare is uncommon. This daily commute (often 20-45 minutes each way to Manchester) is a major factor in the decision-making process and family lifestyle when choosing a private school from Weare.
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