The Best Private Schools in Little Ferry, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Little Ferry. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Elisabeth Morrow School
Independent
The Elisabeth Morrow School is a highly regarded independent school serving students from age 3 through eighth grade. Located just 15 minutes from Little Ferry, this school offers a comprehensive academic program with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and character development. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, technology centers, art studios, and extensive athletic facilities. The school maintains a strong community atmosphere with high parent satisfaction and excellent academic outcomes for graduates.
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Dwight-Englewood School
Independent
Dwight-Englewood School is one of New Jersey's premier independent day schools, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Located approximately 15 minutes from Little Ferry, the school offers a rigorous academic program with both International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement options. The 45-acre campus features modern classrooms, science and technology centers, extensive athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school is known for its diverse student body, exceptional college placement record, and comprehensive extracurricular programs including championship athletic teams and renowned arts programs.
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Academy of the Holy Angels
Catholic Independent College Preparatory School
Academy of the Holy Angels is a highly respected all-girls Catholic independent college preparatory school serving students in grades 9-12. Located about 20 minutes from Little Ferry, the school offers a challenging academic environment with extensive Advanced Placement and honors courses. The school emphasizes leadership development, STEM education, and community service. Facilities include modern science labs, technology centers, art studios, and athletic complexes. Holy Angels maintains a strong academic reputation with nearly 100% college acceptance rate and numerous merit scholarship awards for graduates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Little Ferry, New Jersey
What are the primary private school options for families residing in Little Ferry, NJ, and are there any within the borough itself?
While Little Ferry itself is a small residential borough, it is situated within a region of Bergen County renowned for its excellent private schools. There are no major private school campuses physically located within Little Ferry's borders. However, residents typically look to neighboring towns for top-tier options. The most prominent nearby schools include The Elisabeth Morrow School (Englewood, serving ages 3-Grade 8), Dwight-Englewood School (Englewood, PreK-Grade 12), and Academy of the Holy Angels (Demarest, all-girls, Grades 9-12). Many Little Ferry families also consider other Bergen County institutions like Bergen Catholic or Immaculate Heart Academy. The proximity to these schools, often a 15-25 minute commute, is a key consideration for Little Ferry parents.
How does the tuition for top private schools near Little Ferry, NJ, compare to state averages, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools in the Little Ferry area is generally at or above the New Jersey state average for private education, reflecting the high cost of living and competitive programs in Bergen County. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect tuition ranges of approximately $30,000 to $55,000+ for day schools, with high schools at the higher end. New Jersey's tax-advantaged 529 plans can be used for K-12 private tuition. Crucially, all the major schools near Little Ferry have robust financial aid and merit scholarship programs. For instance, Dwight-Englewood and Academy of the Holy Angels award millions in need-based aid annually. It is essential to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admission, as deadlines are strict and funds are allocated early.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Little Ferry, NJ, that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools in the Little Ferry vicinity often offer specialized programs that may not be available in the public district. For example, The Elisabeth Morrow School has a renowned "World Language" program starting in early childhood. Dwight-Englewood offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme alongside Advanced Placement (AP) courses, a rare combination. Academy of the Holy Angels provides distinctive all-girls STEM initiatives and leadership programs. These schools also typically feature smaller class sizes, more individualized college counseling, and extensive arts and athletics facilities that rival small colleges. For Little Ferry families, these specialized offerings can justify the commute and investment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools near Little Ferry, NJ, and when should we start?
The admission process for sought-after Bergen County private schools is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, the key timeline is as follows: **Spring/Summer before entry year:** Research schools, attend open houses (often starting in September/October). **September-December:** Submit inquiry forms, register for required standardized tests (like the ISEE or SSAT), and schedule student visits/interviews. **January (often early):** Application deadlines. **February-March:** Admission decisions and financial aid awards are released. **April:** Reply date for accepted families. For kindergarten or pre-K at schools like Elisabeth Morrow, starting the process 12-18 months in advance is common. Little Ferry parents should note that sibling and legacy applicant deadlines may be even earlier.
For a family in Little Ferry, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation to these private schools in neighboring towns?
Transportation is a significant logistical factor for Little Ferry families. Most private schools in Englewood, Demarest, and other nearby towns do not provide district-style busing for out-of-town residents. Parents are typically responsible for arranging transportation, which can involve carpooling with other local families, using private car services, or driving themselves. Some schools may facilitate carpool lists for enrolled families. It's important to factor commute time (which can vary greatly with traffic on routes like Route 46 or I-80) into your daily schedule. A few schools may have relationships with private bus companies that offer fee-based routes, so it's worth inquiring directly during the admission process. This daily commute is a key part of the lifestyle commitment when choosing a private school outside your home district.
Private Education Insights
Discover Top Independent Secondary Schools Near Little Ferry, NJ for Your Child
For parents in Little Ferry, New Jersey, beginning the search for “independent secondary schools near me” can feel both exciting and overwhelming. You’re not just looking for a school; you’re seeking the right environment to nurture your child’s unique potential through their crucial teenage years. The good news is that our corner of Bergen County is home to a remarkable concentration of prestigious independent schools, each offering distinct educational philosophies and communities, all within a manageable commute. Understanding the local landscape is the first step in transforming a broad search into a confident decision.
The term “independent” is key here. Unlike public or diocesan private schools, independent secondary schools near Little Ferry, such as the renowned Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood or the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest, are governed by their own boards and are funded primarily through tuition and charitable giving. This autonomy allows them to craft innovative curricula, maintain small class sizes, and foster a strong, mission-driven culture. For a family in Little Ferry, this means access to world-class academic, artistic, and athletic programs right in our backyard, often with transportation options that make daily travel feasible.
When researching, consider the practicalities of a Northern New Jersey commute. Schools like The Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood, which serves younger children but is a feeder to many top secondary programs, remind us of the interconnected educational community here. For the secondary level, looking at schools along the Route 4 corridor or near major highways like the Garden State Parkway can simplify logistics. Visiting these campuses is essential; you’ll want to gauge not just the drive time from Little Ferry, but also the feel of the community. Does the collaborative spirit at Dwight-Englewood resonate with your child? Does the all-girls, values-focused environment at Academy of the Holy Angels align with your family’s goals? These are personal questions best answered in person.
Financially, investing in an independent secondary education is significant, but most schools offer robust need-based financial aid programs. It’s important to engage with admissions offices early to understand all possibilities. The process itself, often involving standardized tests, interviews, and student essays, can be demanding. Starting early, perhaps even during your child’s middle school years, allows for thorough preparation and reduces stress. Remember, you are looking for a partnership—a school that will challenge and support your child from the vibrant, diverse community of Little Ferry into adulthood.
Ultimately, your search for “independent secondary schools near me” is a journey toward finding a place where your teenager will be known, inspired, and prepared for the future. The exceptional options surrounding Little Ferry provide a wealth of choice. By focusing on your child’s individual needs, learning style, and aspirations, and by leveraging the incredible resources of our local area, you can find an independent school that feels not just close to home geographically, but perfectly aligned with your family’s educational vision.
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