The Best Private Schools in Farmington, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Farmington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Harley School
Independent School
The Harley School is a highly respected independent school serving the greater Rochester area, including Farmington. Founded in 1917, Harley offers a comprehensive educational experience from Montessori early childhood through 12th grade. The school is known for its rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, small class sizes, and commitment to developing critical thinkers. With state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities, Harley provides a well-rounded education. The school emphasizes community engagement and character development alongside academic excellence, with a strong track record of college placements at selective institutions.
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Allendale Columbia School
Independent School
Allendale Columbia School is a premier independent school serving students from Farmington and throughout the Rochester region. With roots dating back to 1890, AC offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school features extensive Advanced Placement offerings, a renowned global studies program with international travel opportunities, and innovative STEM facilities. AC's campus includes modern science laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school is particularly noted for its personalized approach to education, with an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a strong emphasis on developing individual talents and interests.
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McQuaid Jesuit
Jesuit Schools Network
McQuaid Jesuit is a distinguished all-boys Catholic college preparatory school serving Farmington and the broader Rochester community. Founded in 1954 in the Jesuit educational tradition, McQuaid offers a challenging academic program with extensive Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM curriculum including robotics and engineering programs. The school features impressive facilities including modern science centers, athletic complexes, and technology-integrated classrooms. McQuaid emphasizes character formation, service learning, and leadership development alongside academic rigor. With a strong alumni network and proven college placement record, the school prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Farmington, New York
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Farmington, New York, and are they located within the town itself?
While Farmington, NY, is a residential town, most of the prominent private schools serving the area are located in nearby Rochester. The top-tier options include The Harley School (in Rochester), Allendale Columbia School (in Pittsford), and McQuaid Jesuit (in Brighton). These schools are all within a 15-25 minute commute from Farmington and are the primary choices for local families seeking independent or faith-based education. There are limited, if any, private school campuses physically located within Farmington's boundaries, so transportation planning is an important local consideration.
How does tuition for private schools like Harley, Allendale Columbia, and McQuaid Jesuit compare, and what financial aid options are available for New York State residents?
Tuition for these schools typically ranges from approximately $25,000 to $35,000 per year for the upper grades. All three schools offer substantial need-based financial aid, funded by their endowments and annual giving. As a New York State resident, you may also be eligible for additional support. Notably, New York State has the "Child Safety Fund" or "Mandated Services" aid, which reimburses private schools for certain state-required services, potentially freeing up other resources. Furthermore, you should investigate the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) guidelines for possible applicability. Each school's admissions office can provide detailed net price calculators and guidance specific to your family's situation.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools near Farmington, NY, offer that leverage the resources of the Greater Rochester area?
Schools in this region often have distinctive programs connected to Rochester's institutional strengths. The Harley School emphasizes experiential learning and has a renowned environmental program. Allendale Columbia School is known for its global focus, entrepreneurship programs, and strong arts curriculum, benefiting from Rochester's cultural scene. McQuaid Jesuit, as a college-preparatory school for boys, offers a rigorous STEM program and robotics teams that frequently collaborate with local engineering firms and universities like RIT and the University of Rochester. All schools utilize the region's museums, tech companies, and medical centers for internships and project-based learning, providing an advantage not always available elsewhere.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Farmington, NY, area, and when should we start?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For entry into fall classes, especially for kindergarten, middle, or high school, you should start researching schools 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically held in the fall), submitting applications by January or February for the following academic year, and completing student visits/interviews and standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT) in the winter. Admission decisions are usually released in March. Given the competitive nature of schools like Harley, Allendale Columbia, and McQuaid, starting the process late can significantly limit your options. It's also common for Farmington families to apply to multiple schools to ensure placement.
For a family in Farmington, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Victor Central School District) to the leading private schools in Rochester?
The comparison hinges on your child's needs and family priorities. The Victor Central School District is consistently high-rated in New York State, offering robust academics, sports, and activities with no tuition. The primary considerations for choosing a private school would be: seeking a specific educational philosophy (e.g., Montessori, Jesuit, progressive), desiring smaller class sizes and more individualized attention, wanting a particular religious or single-gender environment (like McQuaid), or pursuing specialized programs in arts, global studies, or entrepreneurship not as deeply embedded in the public curriculum. For Farmington residents, the trade-off often involves weighing the exceptional quality of the free public option against the unique offerings and community of a private school, plus the daily commute to Rochester.
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