The Best Private Schools in Croton Falls, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Croton Falls. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Harvey School
Independent College Preparatory School
The Harvey School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school located just minutes from Croton Falls. Founded in 1916, Harvey offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. The school serves students in grades 6-12 and features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. Harvey's college placement record is exceptional, with graduates attending top-tier universities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence and offers robust athletic and arts programs.
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St. Mary's School
Catholic School
St. Mary's School is a highly-rated Catholic school serving students from pre-K through 8th grade. Located approximately 15 minutes from Croton Falls, the school provides a strong academic foundation rooted in Catholic values. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, science, language arts, and religious education. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer labs, library, and gymnasium. St. Mary's emphasizes character development and community service while maintaining small class sizes for individualized attention. The school has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and strong parent community involvement.
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St. Luke's School
Episcopal School
St. Luke's School is an Episcopal independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Located in nearby Katonah, the school offers a comprehensive educational program that balances academic rigor with spiritual development. The lower school features Montessori-inspired classrooms, while the middle school provides a challenging preparatory curriculum. St. Luke's emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and character education. The campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school maintains small class sizes and has a strong track record of preparing students for competitive secondary schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Croton Falls, New York
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in or near Croton Falls, New York?
Croton Falls itself is a small hamlet, but it is served by several well-regarded private schools in the immediate North Westchester/South Putnam area. The most prominent are The Harvey School (a co-ed, college-preparatory day and boarding school for grades 6-12), St. Mary's School (a Catholic elementary school in nearby Katonah, serving Pre-K through 8th grade), and St. Luke's School (a private, independent day school in New Canaan, CT, which attracts some families from the region). For Croton Falls residents, these schools represent the core of local private education, each offering distinct educational philosophies and community environments.
How does the tuition for private schools near Croton Falls, NY, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Croton Falls area is generally at or above the New York State average, reflecting the higher cost of living in Westchester County. For the 2024-2025 academic year, day tuition at The Harvey School is approximately $55,000 for upper school, while St. Mary's School is roughly $10,000-$15,000 annually. Importantly, these schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust financial aid programs. The Harvey School, for instance, awards millions in need-based aid annually. New York State also offers programs like the Child Care Tax Credit and the proposed Education Tax Credit, which can provide some relief for qualifying families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Croton Falls area specialize in?
Schools near Croton Falls offer distinctive programs that leverage their settings and missions. The Harvey School is noted for its strong STEM curriculum, competitive athletics, and unique offerings like its Center for Academic Support and the "HarvEYE" broadcast journalism program. Its boarding program also adds a diverse, global perspective. St. Mary's School provides a faith-based education with a strong emphasis on character development and community service, along with a solid foundation in core academics. The proximity to New York City also allows many area private schools to facilitate enriching field trips and partnerships with cultural and scientific institutions not as readily accessible in other regions.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like The Harvey School and St. Mary's School that serve Croton Falls families?
The enrollment process for these schools generally begins in the fall, about a year prior to the desired entry date. For The Harvey School, the process involves submitting an application (often through the Standard Application Online), a campus tour/interview, student testing (SSAT or ISEE), and teacher recommendations. Key deadlines for fall entry are typically in January or February. St. Mary's School, as a parish school, may have a rolling admissions process but prioritizes parish families and siblings. For both, it is crucial to initiate inquiries early, as spaces, particularly in specific grades, can be limited. Attending fall open houses is highly recommended for Croton Falls parents.
For a family in Croton Falls, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (North Salem Central School District) and a private school option?
This decision hinges on several local factors. The North Salem Central School District is a highly-rated, small public district known for its personalized attention, which mirrors some benefits of private school. Key considerations include: **Educational Approach:** Private schools like Harvey offer a specific college-prep focus with potentially more advanced course variety, while North Salem provides a strong standard curriculum. **Cost:** Public school is tax-funded, whereas private tuition is a direct, significant expense. **Community & Environment:** Private schools can offer a particular religious or values-based environment (St. Mary's) or a more diverse student body with boarding students (Harvey). **Logistics:** Transportation to private schools is typically the family's responsibility, whereas the public district provides busing within Croton Falls. Many families in the area value the choice and make decisions based on the specific needs and learning style of their child.
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