The Best Private Schools in Barco, North Carolina
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Barco. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technologies
Independent
Located just 15 miles from Barco in Lasker, Northeast Academy serves students from multiple counties including Currituck. The school specializes in STEM education with particular focus on aerospace technologies and advanced manufacturing. Students benefit from partnerships with local industries and colleges, gaining hands-on experience in high-demand fields. The college preparatory curriculum is complemented by career technical education pathways. The school features modern laboratories, technology centers, and strong athletic programs, making it a popular choice for families seeking specialized technical education.
Programs:
Currituck Academy
Independent
Currituck Academy is a longstanding independent private school serving the Barco community and surrounding Currituck County. Founded in 1974, the school offers a comprehensive K-12 education with strong emphasis on college preparation. The curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses and robust athletic programs. The school maintains small class sizes and personalized attention, with many graduates attending competitive colleges and universities. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic fields serving the rural community of northeastern North Carolina.
Programs:
Albemarle School
Independent
Albemarle School, located approximately 25 miles from Barco in Elizabeth City, has served northeastern North Carolina since 1969. The school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade program with strong college preparatory focus. Students can participate in dual enrollment programs with local colleges and have access to extensive fine arts and athletic programs. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. Many graduates attend prestigious universities, and the school has a strong alumni network throughout the region.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Barco, North Carolina
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Barco, North Carolina?
Families in the Barco area have a few key private school options, though it's important to note that Barco itself is a small, rural community. The most prominent local institutions are Currituck Academy (K-12) in Barco, Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technologies (6-12) in Lasker (about a 15-minute drive), and Albemarle School (PK-12) in Elizabeth City (a 30-40 minute drive). Given the rural setting, many families consider schools in neighboring towns. Currituck Academy is the only one physically located in Barco, offering a traditional college-preparatory curriculum in a close-knit environment.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Barco, NC, area compare, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition in the Barco area varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Currituck Academy's tuition is approximately $6,000-$8,000, while Northeast Academy and Albemarle School may range from $7,000 to $9,000. A critical financial consideration specific to North Carolina is the Opportunity Scholarship Program. This state-funded voucher program provides income-based scholarships for eligible families to attend private schools, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. Many families in Currituck County utilize this program. Additionally, individual schools offer limited need-based financial aid and payment plans.
What unique academic specializations or programs do private schools near Barco offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools near Barco offer distinct specializations not typically found in the local public school district (Currituck County Schools). The most notable is Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technologies (NEAAT), which provides a rigorous STEM curriculum with a direct focus on aerospace, aviation, engineering, and advanced manufacturing, including flight simulation and drone technology. Currituck Academy offers a structured, traditional academic environment with smaller class sizes and a focus on college prep. Albemarle School provides a comprehensive PK-12 program with advanced placement and honors tracks. These specialized environments contrast with the broader, general curriculum of the public schools.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools like Currituck Academy in Barco?
The enrollment process for Currituck Academy and similar schools in the region typically begins in the winter or early spring for the following fall semester. For Currituck Academy, the process involves submitting an application (often available online), providing academic records from previous schools, and possibly a student and family interview. Due to the small size of the school, spaces can be limited, especially in specific grade levels, so early application is advised. Many schools host open houses in the fall and winter. A key deadline for families using the NC Opportunity Scholarship is the spring application period for the state, which must be completed separately from the school's admission process.
For families in rural Barco, what are the main considerations when choosing between the local public schools and the available private options?
For Barco families, the decision often hinges on educational philosophy, specialization, and community size. Currituck County Public Schools offer a no-cost, comprehensive K-12 education with extracurriculars like agriculture and athletics, and students attend Central Elementary, Currituck County Middle, and High School. Private options involve tuition (potentially offset by state vouchers) but provide smaller, more personalized environments. A major draw is specialized curriculum, like NEAAT's aerospace program, which is unmatched locally. Transportation is also a key factor; public schools provide busing throughout the county, while private schools require personal transportation, which can be a significant consideration given the distances in this rural area. The choice often reflects a priority for specific academic focus and community over convenience and cost.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities