The Best Private Schools in Westerly, Rhode Island
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Westerly. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Moses Brown School
Independent Quaker School
Moses Brown School is one of Rhode Island's most prestigious independent schools with a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. Located in Providence, it serves students from throughout Rhode Island including the Westerly area. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum grounded in Quaker values, with exceptional facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a comprehensive program that balances academic challenge with character development.
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Lincoln School
Independent Girls' School
Lincoln School is Rhode Island's only independent school for girls, serving students from preschool through grade 12. The school offers the International Baccalaureate program alongside Advanced Placement courses, providing exceptional academic opportunities. With a focus on empowering young women through education, Lincoln provides outstanding facilities including modern science laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school attracts students from throughout Southern New England, including Westerly families seeking a top-tier all-girls educational experience.
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St. Andrew's School
Independent Episcopal School
St. Andrew's School is an Episcopal college preparatory school serving both boarding and day students from Rhode Island and beyond. Located in Barrington, the school serves families from throughout the state including the Westerly area. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong emphasis on character development. Facilities include modern academic buildings, athletic fields, and arts spaces. The school's college acceptance record is exceptional, with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Westerly, Rhode Island
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Westerly, Rhode Island, and are there commuting considerations?
While Westerly itself is home to a few local private options like The Williams School (independent day school), many families in Westerly consider prestigious schools in the greater Providence area, which involve a commute of about 45-60 minutes. These include Moses Brown School (Providence), Lincoln School (Providence), and St. Andrew's School (Barrington). Additionally, nearby Connecticut schools like the Wheeler School in Providence or St. George's School in Middletown, RI, are also common considerations. The commute is a significant factor, with many families utilizing carpool networks or investigating school-provided transportation options from central pickup points.
How does tuition for private schools commonly considered by Westerly, RI, families compare, and what financial aid resources are specific to Rhode Island?
Tuition for the top-tier day schools like Moses Brown or Lincoln School typically ranges from approximately $40,000 to $50,000 per year for upper grades. Boarding options like St. Andrew's have higher comprehensive fees. Rhode Island offers specific financial resources to assist families. The most notable is the Rhode Island School Choice Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which provides tax credits to businesses that donate to scholarship organizations, thereby funding need-based scholarships for students attending private schools. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their financial aid packages and deadlines, as aid can significantly reduce the net cost.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Westerly students that leverage the local coastal environment?
Several private schools in the region integrate Rhode Island's coastal and marine environment into their curricula. St. George's School in nearby Middletown has a renowned marine science program with direct ocean access. While Moses Brown and Lincoln have strong environmental science programs, their urban Providence location offers different opportunities. For a Westerly-based student, The Williams School emphasizes experiential learning that can include field studies at local sites like the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge or partnerships with the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography in Narragansett, blending local assets with academic rigor.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Westerly, RI, area, and how far in advance should parents apply?
The admission process for competitive Rhode Island private schools is similar to national independent school norms but requires early planning, especially given the commute from Westerly. The timeline typically begins in the fall (September-October) a full year before desired entry, with open houses and tours. Application deadlines are often in January (e.g., January 15th or 31st) for the following academic year. Standardized testing (ISEE or SSAT), student interviews, and teacher recommendations are required. Given the limited seats and competitive nature of schools like Moses Brown, families from Westerly are advised to start research and visits 18-24 months in advance for middle or high school entry.
For a Westerly family, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Westerly Public Schools) with area private schools?
Key considerations include educational approach, class size, and specific program offerings. Westerly Public Schools are well-regarded, offering a standard public curriculum with some AP courses and a new high school facility. The decision often hinges on seeking a specific educational philosophy (e.g., progressive at Moses Brown, all-girls at Lincoln), smaller class sizes (often 12-15 students in private vs. 20+ in public), and more specialized arts or advanced STEM tracks. The commute to a Providence-area private school is a major practical factor, weighing the perceived benefits against daily travel time. Additionally, the financial investment for private tuition versus the tax-supported public system is a fundamental comparison for Westerly residents.
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