The Best Private Schools in Cordova, Tennessee
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cordova. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. George's Independent School
St. George's Independent School
St. George's Independent School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the Memphis metropolitan area, including Cordova families. As Memphis's only International Baccalaureate World School, it offers the full IB continuum from primary years through diploma program. The school emphasizes global citizenship, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning across its college-preparatory curriculum. Facilities include advanced science laboratories, extensive arts facilities, and comprehensive athletic complexes. With a student-teacher ratio of 9:1 and a commitment to personalized learning, St. George's graduates consistently gain admission to prestigious colleges and universities nationwide.
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Evangelical Christian School
Evangelical Christian School System
Located directly in Cordova, Evangelical Christian School (ECS) has been providing exceptional Christian education for over 56 years. ECS offers a comprehensive classical education model with rigorous academic programs including 20+ AP courses, extensive fine arts offerings, and competitive athletic programs. The school features modern facilities on a 70-acre campus with advanced technology integration, multiple athletic fields, and dedicated arts spaces. ECS consistently ranks among the top private schools in Tennessee for academic achievement and college placement, with a strong emphasis on character development and community service.
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Briarcrest Christian School
Briarcrest Christian School System
Briarcrest Christian School is a premier private Christian institution serving the greater Memphis area, including Cordova. With a 49-year history of academic excellence, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with advanced placement courses, robust STEM programs, and championship-caliber athletic teams. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. Briarcrest maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and has a strong track record of college admissions to top universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cordova, Tennessee
What are the primary private school options available to families living in Cordova, Tennessee, and what are their educational philosophies?
Cordova, TN, is served by several highly-regarded private institutions, most of which have campuses in or very near the suburb. The top options include Briarcrest Christian School (with a campus in Eads, just east of Cordova), which offers a comprehensive Christian education from a Baptist perspective; Evangelical Christian School (ECS), with a strong college-preparatory focus rooted in evangelical Christian values; and St. George's Independent School, known for its rigorous, secular college-prep curriculum and its unique "Moral and Ethical Decision Making" program. While not all have physical campuses within Cordova's zip codes, they are considered primary options for Cordova residents due to proximity and busing availability. Each school has a distinct culture, so visiting is crucial to finding the right fit.
How does tuition for private schools in the Cordova, TN, area compare, and are there Tennessee-specific financial aid or scholarship programs available?
Tuition in the Cordova area varies by school and grade level, typically ranging from approximately $12,000 to $25,000+ per year for day students. All major schools offer need-based financial aid. Crucially, Tennessee has a state-run program called the Education Savings Account (ESA) pilot, which can provide funding for eligible students to attend private schools. However, this program has specific eligibility requirements based on residence in certain Tennessee counties (Shelby County is included) and household income. Additionally, many schools participate in the Tennessee I.S.A. (Individualized Education Account) program for students with certain disabilities. Parents should inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their financial aid processes and state program participation.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Cordova area offer that leverage local resources or community partnerships?
Private schools in the Cordova region often develop programs that connect students to Memphis's broader cultural and professional landscape. For example, St. George's Independent School emphasizes its Global Studies program and partnerships with Memphis-based corporations and nonprofits for internships. Briarcrest Christian School boasts strong fine arts and athletic programs, frequently competing at the state level. Evangelical Christian School (ECS) is noted for its robust STEM initiatives and competitive robotics teams that participate in regional competitions. Many schools also incorporate local history and service, with organized volunteer projects throughout the Memphis metropolitan area, including Cordova's own parks and community centers, fostering a strong sense of local civic engagement.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Briarcrest, ECS, and St. George's for a family moving to Cordova?
The enrollment process for these competitive schools is often lengthy and should be started a year in advance. Most schools in the Cordova area begin accepting applications in August or September for the following academic year, with key deadlines for financial aid applications typically in January or February. The process usually includes an application, standardized testing (like the ISEE or school-specific assessment), student and parent interviews, teacher recommendations, and a review of academic records. For families moving to Cordova mid-cycle, it's essential to contact the admissions offices immediately, as some schools may have rolling admissions or waiting lists for specific grades. Given the high demand, especially for entry-level grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), early planning is strongly advised.
For a family considering both the public Germantown Municipal School District (which serves parts of Cordova) and private options, what are the key decision factors specific to living in Cordova, TN?
This is a common consideration in Cordova, as parts of the suburb are zoned for the highly-rated Germantown Municipal School District (GMSD). Key factors include: **Educational Approach:** GMSD offers a strong, secular public education, while private options provide specific religious foundations (Briarcrest, ECS) or a distinct independent school philosophy (St. George's). **Class Size:** Private schools generally offer smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. **Logistics & Cost:** Public schools are tuition-free, while private schools represent a significant financial investment. However, private schools often provide more extensive busing routes throughout the Cordova area than typical public school zones. **Program Consistency:** Private schools offer a continuous curriculum from elementary through high school, whereas public school students may transition between different schools at various grade levels. The decision often hinges on a family's priorities for values-based education, specific academic programs, and budget.
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