The Best Private Schools in White Plains, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in White Plains. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Windward School
The Windward School
The Windward School is a leading independent school specializing in educating students with language-based learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. Located in White Plains, it serves the regional community with a research-based curriculum designed to build academic skills and self-confidence. The school features small classes, individualized instruction, and a focus on literacy and executive functioning. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to professional development, Windward emphasizes a supportive environment that helps students achieve academic success and transition effectively to mainstream settings.
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Solomon Schechter School of Westchester
Solomon Schechter School
Solomon Schechter School of Westchester is a highly regarded coeducational Jewish day school serving students from early childhood through high school. It offers a rigorous academic program that combines a comprehensive general studies curriculum with deep immersion in Jewish traditions, Hebrew language, and values. The school is known for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and strong community involvement, with a focus on critical thinking, ethical development, and college preparation. Extracurricular activities include arts, athletics, and community service, fostering well-rounded student growth.
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The French-American School of New York
French-American School
The French-American School of New York (FASNY) is a premier bilingual international school serving the White Plains area and broader Westchester County. It provides education from preschool through high school, emphasizing multiculturalism and academic excellence through programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and French Baccalaureate. With a diverse student body and experienced faculty, FASNY focuses on language proficiency, global citizenship, and STEM initiatives. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and arts spaces, supported by a range of extracurriculars from sports to cultural clubs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in White Plains, New York
What are the main types of private schools available in White Plains, NY, and how do they differ?
White Plains, NY, offers a diverse range of private schools catering to different educational philosophies and needs. Prominent types include faith-based schools like the Solomon Schechter School of Westchester (Jewish day school), internationally-focused schools like The French-American School of New York (bilingual, International Baccalaureate), and specialized institutions for students with learning differences like The Windward School (language-based learning disabilities). Additionally, the area has independent college-preparatory schools and Catholic parochial schools. This variety allows parents in Westchester County to find a school that aligns closely with their child's academic needs, cultural background, or learning style.
How does the tuition for private schools in White Plains, NY, compare to the broader New York metro area, and what financial aid options are typical?
While generally high, tuition for private day schools in White Plains is often slightly lower than comparable schools in Manhattan, though it is consistent with the affluent Westchester County market. Annual tuition can range from approximately $20,000 for some parochial schools to over $50,000 for top-tier independent schools. Most established schools, like those listed, have robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are limited. New York State also offers programs like the Child Care Tax Credit for eligible families, and some schools participate in state-funded assistance for students with special needs.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in White Plains that leverage its location in Westchester County?
Private schools in White Plains leverage their proximity to New York City and the resources of Westchester County for unique programs. Many have strong STEM partnerships with local corporations and healthcare institutions. Schools like The French-American School of New York offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, providing a global curriculum. Furthermore, schools often utilize the county's natural and cultural resources for environmental science programs, arts collaborations with the White Plains Performing Arts Center, and extensive athletic facilities. The Windward School’s specialized teacher training and research-based curriculum in language skills is a notable regional resource for students with dyslexia.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in White Plains, NY?
The timeline for most competitive private schools in White Plains aligns with the Independent School Admissions Association of Greater New York (ISAAGNY) calendar. Key steps include: starting research and school visits in the fall (September-October) a year before desired entry, submitting applications by early January (often with a common form), and completing student assessments/interviews by February. Admission decisions are typically released in mid-March. For schools with rolling admissions or specific specialties like The Windward School, it's essential to contact the admissions office well in advance, as spaces and waitlists can fill quickly. Sibling and legacy applicant deadlines may be earlier.
For families considering both options, what are the primary factors differentiating the White Plains City School District from local private schools?
The White Plains City School District is a large, diverse, and highly-regarded public district, offering a comprehensive K-12 education with no tuition. Key differentiators for private schools in the area include: smaller class sizes (often 12-18 students vs. 20-25+ in public), specialized curricula (e.g., bilingual immersion, religious education, or therapeutic models), and more flexible, mission-driven programming. Private schools may offer more individualized attention and distinct community cultures. The choice often hinges on a family's priorities: the cost-free, community-centered diversity of the public system versus the tailored, specialized approach and potentially different resource allocation of a private institution. Transportation is also a factor, as private schools may not provide district busing.
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