The Best Private Schools in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in East Stroudsburg. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Swain School
Independent
The Swain School is an independent day school serving students from preschool through eighth grade, drawing families from throughout the Lehigh Valley and Pocono regions. The school features a comprehensive STEAM curriculum, Spanish language instruction beginning in preschool, and extensive arts programs. Their 40-acre campus includes state-of-the-art facilities, outdoor learning spaces, and dedicated science and technology labs. The school emphasizes project-based learning and character education with a strong track record of preparing students for top secondary schools.
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Notre Dame High School
Diocese of Scranton
Notre Dame High School is a Catholic college preparatory school serving the Pocono region with a strong academic tradition. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including 15 Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and competitive athletic teams. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. Facilities include modern science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities serving students in grades 9-12.
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Pocono Mountain Christian Academy
Christian Schools International
Pocono Mountain Christian Academy provides comprehensive Christian education from preschool through high school, serving families throughout the Pocono Mountain region including East Stroudsburg. The school offers a rigorous academic program integrated with biblical principles, college preparatory courses, and diverse extracurricular activities including competitive sports teams and performing arts. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and dedicated spaces for music and art instruction, fostering a supportive community environment focused on academic excellence and spiritual growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
What are the primary types of private schools available in East Stroudsburg, PA, and how do they differ?
East Stroudsburg offers a few distinct types of private schools. Notre Dame High School is a private, independent Catholic school serving grades 9-12. The Swain School, located in nearby Allentown but drawing families from the broader region including Monroe County, is a prestigious, secular independent school for Pre-K through 8th grade. Pocono Mountain Christian Academy is a private Christian school offering a biblically-integrated curriculum from preschool through 12th grade. The key differences lie in religious affiliation, educational philosophy (progressive vs. traditional), and grade ranges served. Many East Stroudsburg families also consider private schools in the broader Pocono region or commuting to schools in the Lehigh Valley.
How does the tuition for private schools in the East Stroudsburg area compare, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition in the East Stroudsburg area varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Pocono Mountain Christian Academy's tuition is generally the most accessible, often ranging from $6,000 to $9,000 annually for K-12. Notre Dame High School's tuition is higher, typically between $12,000 and $15,000. The Swain School, as a top-tier independent school, has the highest tuition, exceeding $20,000 per year. All these schools offer need-based financial aid, and Pennsylvania state programs like the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) can provide substantial tuition assistance to eligible families, making private education more accessible for residents of East Stroudsburg.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in East Stroudsburg that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in the East Stroudsburg area often incorporate the unique Pocono Mountains setting into their programs. For instance, Notre Dame High School emphasizes its strong college-prep curriculum with robust STEM and arts programs, and its location allows for easy access to environmental science field studies in the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Pocono Mountain Christian Academy may integrate outdoor education and stewardship into its curriculum. While The Swain School is not in East Stroudsburg, its students from the area benefit from its renowned "Swain Innovates" program and global studies, with the regional diversity of the Poconos adding to classroom perspectives. Many schools also have strong winter sports programs due to the local ski resorts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving East Stroudsburg, PA families?
The timeline can vary. For schools like Notre Dame High School and Pocono Mountain Christian Academy, the application process for the following fall often begins in the prior September or October, with deadlines for financial aid applications typically in January or February. Rolling admissions may continue if spaces are available. The Swain School, with its more competitive admissions, has an earlier timeline, often requiring applications by January for the next school year. A key step for all schools is scheduling a campus visit and shadow day, which is highly recommended for East Stroudsburg families to account for commute times and feel for the school culture. It's advisable to start research 12-18 months in advance.
For an East Stroudsburg resident, what are the major considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school?
The decision often hinges on several local factors. The East Stroudsburg Area School District is a large public district, so private schools offer smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. A major consideration is the commute; while Pocono Mountain Christian Academy and Notre Dame are within Monroe County, attending a school like The Swain School involves a significant daily drive to the Lehigh Valley. Parents may choose private schools for specific religious education, a particular pedagogical approach (like classical Christian or progressive independent), or specialized programs not as robust in the public system. Conversely, the public district offers no tuition cost, extensive extracurriculars, and the convenience of neighborhood schools. Evaluating transportation, cost after financial aid, and the specific educational values you prioritize is essential.
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