The Best Private Schools in Tiverton, Rhode Island
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Tiverton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Philomena School
Diocese of Providence Catholic School System
St. Philomena School is a highly-regarded Catholic school located just minutes from Tiverton in neighboring Portsmouth. Serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum integrated with Catholic values and traditions. The school features modern STEM laboratories, comprehensive arts programs, and strong community involvement. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, safe learning environment, and excellent preparation for high school. The school serves families throughout the East Bay region including Tiverton residents.
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Providence Country Day School
Independent School
Providence Country Day School is an acclaimed independent college preparatory school serving students from across Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Located approximately 20 minutes from Tiverton, PCD offers a challenging academic program with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, character development, and personalized college counseling. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. Many Tiverton families choose PCD for its strong academic reputation and inclusive community.
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The Wheeler School
Independent School
The Wheeler School is a prestigious independent school in Providence that attracts students from throughout Rhode Island, including Tiverton families. Wheeler offers a comprehensive educational program from early childhood through high school, known for its innovative curriculum and commitment to academic excellence. The school features the Hamilton School for students with language-based learning differences, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. With a beautiful urban campus and dedicated faculty, Wheeler provides a nurturing yet challenging environment that prepares students for top colleges and universities. The school offers transportation options for families in the East Bay region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Tiverton, Rhode Island
What are the primary private school options for Tiverton, RI residents, and are there any located directly in town?
Tiverton itself has a limited number of private schools within its town borders, with St. Philomena School being a notable local Catholic K-8 option. For a broader range, including independent college-preparatory schools, Tiverton families often look to nearby areas in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Popular choices include Providence Country Day School in East Providence and The Wheeler School in Providence, both approximately a 30-45 minute commute. Many Tiverton residents also consider excellent private schools across the border in Fall River, MA, and Bristol, RI, due to the town's convenient location near the state line.
How does Rhode Island's school choice policy affect Tiverton families considering private schools?
Rhode Island does not have a universal voucher or tax-credit scholarship program, so Tiverton families are primarily responsible for private school tuition. However, the state does offer the "Rhode Island Scholarship" program for students with special needs (IEPs), which can provide funding for approved private placements if the public school cannot meet the child's needs. Additionally, some Rhode Island private schools, including those like Providence Country Day School and The Wheeler School that Tiverton students attend, offer robust need-based financial aid. It's crucial for Tiverton parents to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and deadlines.
Given Tiverton's coastal location, do any area private schools offer specialized marine or environmental science programs?
Yes, Tiverton's proximity to Narragansett Bay and the Sakonnet River is reflected in some private school curricula. While St. Philomena School integrates general science, the larger independent schools that serve the region often have strong environmental programs. For example, Providence Country Day School emphasizes experiential learning and has partnerships with local environmental organizations. The Wheeler School's Upper School offers advanced courses in environmental science. Furthermore, Tiverton's location means some schools incorporate field trips to local estuaries, the Norman Bird Sanctuary, or the Audubon Society of Rhode Island into their science programs.
What is the typical enrollment timeline for private schools serving Tiverton, RI, and when should applications be submitted?
The timeline for most competitive independent day schools in the Rhode Island area, such as Wheeler and Providence Country Day, follows a traditional independent school schedule. Applications for the following academic year typically open in September, with deadlines in January or February for admission and financial aid. Decisions are released in March. For St. Philomena School in Tiverton, the process may be more rolling, but it is still advisable to apply by early spring for the fall semester. Given that many schools require interviews, campus visits, and standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT), Tiverton families should begin their research and visits in the fall of the year prior to desired enrollment.
How do the class sizes and student-teacher ratios in Tiverton's public schools compare to the nearby private school options?
Tiverton Public Schools generally have favorable class sizes for a public district, but the area's leading private schools typically offer significantly lower student-to-teacher ratios. For instance, St. Philomena School boasts small, personalized classrooms. The Wheeler School and Providence Country Day School often maintain ratios around 8:1 or 9:1, allowing for highly individualized attention. This is a key differentiator for parents seeking a more intimate learning environment. However, Tiverton High School offers a diverse set of AP courses and extracurriculars that rival some private offerings, so the decision often hinges on the desired educational approach and community fit, not just size.
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