The Best Private Schools in Northampton, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Northampton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Moravian Academy
Independent School
Moravian Academy is one of the oldest independent schools in the United States, serving students from preschool through 12th grade. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and individualized attention. With a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students benefit from personalized learning experiences. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes character development and global citizenship through its diverse programs and community engagement initiatives.
Programs:
The Swain School
Independent School
The Swain School is an independent day school serving students from age 2 through 8th grade. The school focuses on progressive education with a strong emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) integration. Features include dedicated art studios, science labs, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The school's character education program promotes empathy, responsibility, and respect. Extracurricular offerings include competitive sports, robotics, and various arts programs. The campus spans 27 acres with modern facilities designed to support holistic student development.
Programs:
Salisbury Township School District - Salisbury Middle School (Private Program)
Salisbury Township School District
While primarily a public school district, Salisbury Township schools offer exceptional educational programs that serve the broader Lehigh Valley region, including Northampton. The district is known for its strong academic performance, innovative technology integration, and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The middle school features advanced coursework opportunities, robust arts programs, and competitive athletic teams. The school community emphasizes personalized learning and student support services, with modern facilities that include STEM labs, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic facilities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Northampton, Pennsylvania
What are the primary private school options available for families in Northampton, PA, and what are their defining characteristics?
The Northampton, PA area offers several notable private schools, each with distinct identities. **Moravian Academy**, with campuses in Bethlehem, is a prestigious Pre-K through 12 college-preparatory school known for its rigorous academics, global education focus, and strong arts and athletics. **The Swain School** in Allentown is an independent Pre-K through 8 school emphasizing a progressive, child-centered approach with integrated technology and a strong sense of community. While **Salisbury Township School District** is public, it's important to note that some families explore its specialized programs. For strictly private options, these two institutions are the primary draws, requiring a commute from Northampton but offering robust educational alternatives to the local public schools.
How does tuition for private schools in the Northampton, PA area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Lehigh Valley region varies significantly by grade level and school. For the 2024-25 academic year, Moravian Academy's tuition ranges from approximately $20,000 for lower grades to over $40,000 for upper school. The Swain School's tuition is generally lower, ranging from about $15,000 to $25,000. Both schools offer substantial need-based financial aid, with many families receiving grants that do not require repayment. Pennsylvania also offers state-funded programs like the **Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC)** and **Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC)**, which provide scholarships to eligible students attending participating private schools, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for Northampton residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Northampton, PA offer that differentiate them from public schools?
Private schools in the Lehigh Valley leverage their independence to offer specialized programs. Moravian Academy features a renowned **Global Scholars program**, extensive world language instruction starting in preschool, and a comprehensive robotics and engineering curriculum. The Swain School emphasizes **project-based learning**, outdoor education, and social-emotional learning integrated throughout the day. These schools often have smaller class sizes (12-18 students) than Northampton Area School District, allowing for more individualized attention. Additionally, they typically offer distinctive arts and athletics partnerships with local organizations, leveraging the cultural resources of the broader Lehigh Valley.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Northampton, PA families?
The process is competitive and begins early. For schools like Moravian Academy and The Swain School, the main admission cycle for the following fall starts **12-18 months in advance**, with open houses in the early fall. Key steps include: 1) Attending an open house (September-November), 2) Submitting an application by January/February, 3) Student visit and assessment day, and 4) Financial aid application (due early in the calendar year). Decision notifications are typically released in March. Given Northampton's location, families should plan for transportation logistics and consider applying to multiple schools. We recommend initiating inquiries in the fall of the year prior to desired enrollment.
For a family living in Northampton Borough, what are the practical considerations regarding commuting and community when choosing a private school in the Lehigh Valley?
Choosing a private school in Allentown or Bethlehem from Northampton involves a **commute of 20-40 minutes**, depending on location and traffic. Most schools offer transportation zones or busing options, but many families carpool. An important consideration is the "community footprint"; your child's friends and extracurricular networks will likely be spread across the Lehigh Valley rather than concentrated in Northampton. However, these schools actively foster their own tight-knit communities through events and parent associations. It's advisable to assess the school's schedule, after-care options, and transportation support to ensure the logistics align with your family's routine before committing.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities