The Best Private Schools in Saunderstown, Rhode Island
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Saunderstown. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Hamilton School at Wheeler
Wheeler School
The Hamilton School at Wheeler is a nationally recognized independent school specifically designed for students with language-based learning differences. Located just minutes from Saunderstown in Wickford, this specialized school serves students in grades 1-8 with dyslexia and other language-based learning challenges. The school utilizes the Orton-Gillingham approach and provides highly individualized instruction in small class settings. With a 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio, Hamilton offers a comprehensive academic program while building students' confidence and self-advocacy skills. The school is part of the larger Wheeler School community, allowing access to additional facilities and resources.
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Moses Brown School
Independent Quaker School
Moses Brown School is one of New England's premier independent Quaker schools, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Located approximately 25 minutes from Saunderstown in Providence, this historic institution offers a rigorous college preparatory education grounded in Quaker values. The 33-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes inquiry-based learning, community service, and character development. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Moses Brown provides a comprehensive education that prepares students for top colleges while fostering intellectual curiosity and social responsibility.
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Providence Country Day School
Independent College Preparatory School
Providence Country Day School is an independent college preparatory school serving students in grades 6-12, located approximately 20 minutes from Saunderstown in East Providence. The school offers a challenging academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. PCD features a comprehensive curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive arts offerings. The 32-acre campus includes modern academic buildings, science laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character development, leadership skills, and community engagement, preparing students for success in college and beyond. PCD maintains strong college placement records and offers a supportive, inclusive community environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Saunderstown, Rhode Island
Are there any private schools physically located within Saunderstown, Rhode Island, or do families typically look to neighboring towns?
There are no major private school campuses physically located within the village of Saunderstown itself. Families in Saunderstown most commonly consider prestigious independent day schools in nearby communities, particularly in Providence and the broader East Bay area. The schools you mentioned—The Hamilton School at Wheeler (in Providence), Moses Brown School (in Providence), and Providence Country Day School (in East Providence)—are all within a 20-30 minute commute. This makes Saunderstown an attractive residential location for families seeking top-tier private education with relatively convenient access to several of Rhode Island's most respected institutions.
What is the average tuition range for the top private schools near Saunderstown, RI, and are there state-specific financial aid options?
Tuition for the leading K-12 private schools in the Providence area serving Saunderstown families typically ranges from approximately $35,000 to $50,000+ per year for upper grades. In addition to need-based financial aid offered directly by each school, Rhode Island has specific programs that can help families. Notably, the Rhode Island Corporate Scholarship Tax Credit program allows businesses to receive tax credits for donations to scholarship organizations, which in turn provide need-based scholarships for private school tuition. It's crucial to inquire about each school's financial aid process and deadlines, which often align with admission application timelines in January or February.
How do the educational philosophies and program specializations differ between the top private schools accessible from Saunderstown?
The schools near Saunderstown offer distinct educational approaches. **The Hamilton School at Wheeler** (part of The Wheeler School) is specifically designed for students with language-based learning differences, offering a rigorous, specialized curriculum in a supportive setting. **Moses Brown School** is a Quaker-founded, Friends school emphasizing collaborative learning, community service, and ethical leadership within a comprehensive college-preparatory program. **Providence Country Day School** focuses on personalized learning and character education, with a strong emphasis on connecting classroom work to the real world through its "PCD Works" internship program. This variety allows Saunderstown parents to match their child's learning style and needs with a specific institutional mission.
What are the key enrollment timelines and admission assessment requirements for private schools in the Saunderstown/Providence area?
The admission cycle for these competitive day schools is generally consistent. Key deadlines for fall enrollment are typically in early January (often January 1st or 15th) for application submission. This is followed by student visits/interviews and standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT) during the winter months. Admission decisions are released in mid-March. Given the limited seats and competitive nature, it is highly recommended for Saunderstown families to begin the process 12-18 months in advance, especially for entry points like Pre-K/Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades. Attending open houses in the fall is a critical first step.
For a family living in Saunderstown, what are the transportation logistics and community considerations for attending a private school in Providence?
Commuting from Saunderstown to schools in Providence or East Providence involves crossing the Narragansett Bay via the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge and the Newport Pell Bridge, or taking a route through Wickford and North Kingstown. Most schools offer private bus service or contracted routes that serve the South County and East Bay areas, which can alleviate the daily drive. An important community consideration is that your child's peer group will be geographically dispersed, so fostering in-town friendships may require extra planning. However, the schools actively build their own tight-knit communities, and many Saunderstown families find the commute worthwhile for the educational opportunities.
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