The Best Private Schools in Cambra, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cambra. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School
Wyoming Seminary
Wyoming Seminary is one of Pennsylvania's premier independent college preparatory schools, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Located just 15 miles from Cambra in Kingston, this highly respected institution offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes, extensive Advanced Placement course offerings, and outstanding arts and athletic facilities. The school features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and competitive athletic programs. With a long tradition of academic excellence dating back to 1844, Wyoming Seminary consistently sends graduates to top-tier colleges and universities nationwide. The campus spans 18 acres with modern facilities including the Kirby Center for Creative Arts and the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy building for upper school sciences.
Programs:
Holy Redeemer High School
Diocese of Scranton
Holy Redeemer High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school located approximately 12 miles from Cambra in Wilkes-Barre. Serving students in grades 9-12, Holy Redeemer offers a comprehensive academic program grounded in Catholic values with strong emphasis on college preparation. The school features modern STEM laboratories, competitive athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular activities including robotics, theater, and community service. With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, Holy Redeemer provides personalized attention and strong academic support. The school's graduates consistently achieve high college acceptance rates to prestigious universities, and the campus includes recently renovated facilities with advanced technology integration throughout classrooms.
Programs:
MMI Preparatory School
MMI Preparatory School
MMI Preparatory School is an independent college preparatory school located just 6 miles from Cambra in Freeland, making it the closest elite private school option. Founded in 1879, MMI has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and rigorous college preparation. The school serves students in grades 6-12 with a particular strength in STEM education, featuring advanced mathematics and science research programs. MMI offers small class sizes, individualized attention, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses and unique electives. The campus includes modern science laboratories, technology-integrated classrooms, and athletic facilities. MMI graduates regularly gain acceptance to highly selective colleges and universities, with many earning significant merit-based scholarships.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cambra, Pennsylvania
What are the primary private school options serving families in or near Cambra, Pennsylvania?
While Cambra itself is a small census-designated place, it is served by several highly-regarded private schools in the greater Luzerne County area. The top options include Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School in Kingston (a short drive away), known for its rigorous college prep and boarding/day programs; Holy Redeemer High School in Wilkes-Barre, a Catholic diocesan school; and MMI Preparatory School in Freeland, which emphasizes a pre-engineering and STEM-focused curriculum. These schools draw students from Cambra and surrounding communities, offering distinct educational philosophies and environments.
How does tuition at private schools near Cambra, PA, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition for day students at schools like Wyoming Seminary, Holy Redeemer, and MMI Prep generally ranges from approximately $10,000 to over $20,000 per year, which is competitive with or slightly below the average for Pennsylvania private secondary schools. Pennsylvania offers unique financial aid opportunities through programs like the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC), which provide need-based scholarships. Additionally, each school typically has its own substantial financial aid and merit scholarship programs. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited and processes vary by school.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs distinguish the private schools accessible from Cambra, PA?
The private schools near Cambra offer notable specializations. Wyoming Seminary is renowned for its global studies program, extensive arts offerings, and competitive athletics. MMI Preparatory School has a distinguished legacy in pre-engineering and a mandatory STEM curriculum integrated across all grades. Holy Redeemer High School provides a comprehensive faith-based education with strong college-prep academics and a wide array of sports and activities. For families in Cambra, this means access to diverse, high-quality programs without needing to relocate to a major metropolitan area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private high schools like Holy Redeemer or Wyoming Seminary for a student from Cambra?
The enrollment process for these schools typically begins in the fall, a full year before the desired start date. For example, open houses are often held September through November. Application deadlines for the following academic year are usually in January or February. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often requiring an entrance exam (like the HSPT for Holy Redeemer) or standardized test scores. Admissions decisions and financial aid awards are typically communicated in March. Given the competitive nature, especially at Wyoming Seminary, starting the process early is highly advised for Cambra-area families.
For a family in Cambra, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Hazleton Area) to the nearby private school options?
Families in Cambra, part of the Hazleton Area School District, should consider several factors. Private schools like Wyoming Seminary, MMI Prep, and Holy Redeemer typically offer smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, and distinct curricular focuses (e.g., STEM, college prep, faith-based education). They may also have more resources for college counseling. The trade-off is tuition cost versus no cost for public schools. Transportation is a key logistical consideration, as private schools do not provide district busing from Cambra. Additionally, consider the community environment: private schools often foster a close-knit community, while public schools offer a broader socioeconomic diversity and potentially larger athletic/activity programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities