The Best Private Schools in Arlington, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Arlington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Trinity Valley School
Independent
While located in Fort Worth, Trinity Valley School serves families throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including Arlington residents. This highly selective independent school offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement and honors courses. TVS features exceptional facilities including a state-of-the-art STEM center, performing arts complex, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes whole-child education with robust arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs. Known for its strong community and outstanding college matriculation record, TVS consistently ranks among the top private schools in North Texas.
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The Oakridge School
Independent
The Oakridge School is a premier independent college preparatory school serving students from early childhood through 12th grade. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, the school offers small class sizes with a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Oakridge features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with comprehensive athletics, fine arts, and community service programs. Graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities nationwide.
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Pantego Christian Academy
Independent Christian
Pantego Christian Academy provides a comprehensive Christian education from preschool through 12th grade. The school combines rigorous academic preparation with spiritual development, offering Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and extensive fine arts programs. PCA features modern facilities including technology-enhanced classrooms, science laboratories, and athletic complexes. The school maintains a strong college placement record and emphasizes leadership development through various student organizations and community service opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Arlington, Texas
What are the main types of private schools available in Arlington, Texas, and how do they differ?
Arlington, TX, offers a diverse range of private school options, primarily categorized as independent college-preparatory schools and faith-based institutions. Top schools like The Oakridge School and Trinity Valley School are secular, independent schools with a strong focus on rigorous academics, arts, and athletics, leading to high college matriculation rates. Pantego Christian Academy represents the faith-based model, integrating a Christian worldview with a college-prep curriculum. Additionally, Arlington hosts several smaller parochial schools (e.g., Catholic, Lutheran) and specialized academies. The key difference lies in their educational philosophy, religious affiliation (or lack thereof), and community culture, allowing parents to choose an environment that aligns with their family's values and academic goals for their child.
How does tuition for private schools in Arlington, TX, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for leading private schools in Arlington is generally competitive with or slightly below the average for major Texas metropolitan areas. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at schools like The Oakridge School and Trinity Valley School for upper grades can range from approximately $25,000 to $30,000, while Pantego Christian Academy is often in the $15,000-$20,000 range. Most Arlington private schools offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need, utilizing tools like the SSS (School and Student Services) by NAIS. Additionally, Texas has the **Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC)**, which accredits many schools, and some faith-based schools may offer parish or multi-child discounts. It's crucial to inquire directly about aid deadlines, as they often align with admission application timelines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Arlington's top private schools offer that leverage the local community?
Arlington's private schools capitalize on the city's unique position in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Many offer exceptional STEM and robotics programs that partner with local engineering firms and UT Arlington. Furthermore, given Arlington's status as the "Entertainment Capital of Texas," schools like The Oakridge School have strong fine arts and theater programs that sometimes connect with venues like the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Athletic programs frequently utilize top-tier local facilities, and some schools offer specialized courses in sports management or hospitality, nodding to the presence of the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, and Six Flags. This local integration provides students with unique internship opportunities and real-world learning experiences not found elsewhere.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Arlington, Texas?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools in Arlington is structured and often begins nearly a year in advance. Key steps include: 1) **Fall (Sept-Nov):** Attend open houses and information sessions. 2) **December-January:** Submit applications, which usually include essays, teacher recommendations, and transcripts. 3) **January-February:** Student assessment testing (like the ISEE) and family interviews are conducted. 4) **March:** Admission decisions and financial aid awards are typically communicated. 5) **April:** Enrollment contracts and deposits are due. It's highly advisable to start research early, as spaces, particularly in entry-level grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), are limited. Waiting lists are common at schools like Trinity Valley School, so adhering to deadlines is critical.
For families considering both options, what are the key practical differences between Arlington Independent School District (AISD) public schools and private schools in Arlington?
The key differences involve class size, curriculum flexibility, and cost. **AISD** offers a standardized Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) curriculum, diverse magnet programs, and no tuition. **Arlington private schools** offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 15-1 student-teacher ratios), more individualized attention, and the freedom to exceed state standards with advanced, project-based, or internationally-baccalaureate inspired curricula. Private schools often have more resources for arts, technology, and college counseling. However, they require substantial tuition. A practical consideration is transportation; AISD provides busing, while private schools often require carpooling. The choice often hinges on whether a family prioritizes the tailored environment and specific mission of a private school versus the no-cost, community-centered, and programmatically diverse offerings of the public district.