The Best Private Schools in Clemmons, North Carolina
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Clemmons. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Salem Academy
Salem Academy and College
Salem Academy is one of the oldest educational institutions for girls in the United States, offering a rigorous college preparatory program. Located just 15 minutes from Clemmons in Winston-Salem, the school provides small class sizes with a 7:1 student-teacher ratio, advanced placement courses, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The historic campus features modern academic facilities, athletic centers, and residential accommodations for boarding students. Salem Academy emphasizes leadership development, global awareness, and academic excellence within a supportive community environment.
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Forsyth Country Day School
Independent School
Located just minutes from Clemmons in neighboring Lewisville, Forsyth Country Day School offers a comprehensive educational program from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school features a 67-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. FCDS provides a challenging academic curriculum with numerous AP courses, championship athletic programs, and extensive arts offerings. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes character education alongside academic achievement, serving families throughout the Winston-Salem metropolitan area.
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Calvary Day School
Calvary Baptist Church
Calvary Day School provides a Christ-centered education with strong academic programs serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located approximately 15 minutes from Clemmons, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum integrated with biblical principles. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Calvary Day emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual development, and character formation, with strong athletic programs and extracurricular activities that serve families throughout the greater Winston-Salem area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Clemmons, North Carolina
What are the primary private school options serving families in Clemmons, NC, and what are their key characteristics?
While Clemmons itself has a limited number of standalone private campuses, it is part of the greater Winston-Salem metro area with several highly-regarded options nearby. The top schools include **Forsyth Country Day School** (located in Lewisville, adjacent to Clemmons), known for its strong college-prep curriculum and extensive arts/athletics; **Salem Academy** (in Winston-Salem), a historic all-girls boarding and day school with a focus on leadership and STEM; and **Calvary Day School** (in Winston-Salem), which offers a Christian-based education from preschool through high school. Many Clemmons families also consider schools in Winston-Salem like Summit School. Transportation and commute times (typically 15-25 minutes) are important local considerations.
How does tuition for private schools in the Clemmons, NC area compare, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition in the Clemmons/Winston-Salem area varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $20,000 - $30,000+ for upper schools at institutions like Forsyth Country Day and Salem Academy. Calvary Day School's tuition is generally lower, often starting in the mid-teens for high school. North Carolina offers the **Opportunity Scholarship Program**, a state-funded voucher that provides income-based assistance for eligible families to attend private schools, which can substantially offset costs. Additionally, most schools have their own need-based financial aid programs. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Clemmons, NC?
Schools in this region offer distinctive programs leveraging local resources. **Forsyth Country Day School** features a renowned Global Studies program with travel opportunities and a partnership with the nearby Center for Design Innovation. **Salem Academy** emphasizes women in STEM through its Center for Women in Science and Mathematics and has a unique connection to Salem College. **Calvary Day School** integrates biblical worldview across its curriculum and offers strong athletic programs. Many schools also utilize the cultural and scientific assets of Winston-Salem, such as Innovation Quarter and SECCA, for enriched learning. The proximity to the Piedmont Triad region allows for specialized internships and community partnerships not available in more rural areas.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Clemmons, NC area?
The admissions process for competitive private schools in this region is cyclical and begins early. For entry in Fall 2025, many families start touring schools and attending open houses in the **September to December 2024** period. Application deadlines for day schools like Forsyth Country Day and Calvary Day are often in **January or February 2025**, with decisions released in March. Salem Academy, as a boarding school, may have different deadlines. A key local step is scheduling a shadow day/visit, which is highly encouraged. Given that some schools have limited seats, especially in popular entry grades like Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th, initiating contact a full year in advance is the standard advice for Clemmons-area parents.
For a family living in Clemmons, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local public schools (like West Forsyth High) and a private school?
This decision hinges on several Clemmons-specific factors. The public schools in the **West Forsyth** district are highly rated, which reduces the imperative for some families to seek private alternatives. Key considerations include: **Class Size** (private schools often have 15-20 students vs. 25-30+ in public), **Educational Approach** (private schools can offer more specialized or religious curricula), and **Logistics** (private requires a commute to Winston-Salem or Lewisville, while public is neighborhood-based). Many Clemmons families who choose private schools do so for a specific program (e.g., single-gender education, intensive arts) or a desired community ethos. It's recommended to directly compare the offerings of West Forsyth High School with those of nearby private high schools to assess the best fit for your child's needs.
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