The Best Private Schools in Plano, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Plano. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Cambridge School of Dallas
Independent
The Cambridge School of Dallas provides an exceptional classical Christian education serving families throughout the Plano area. Located just south of Plano in Dallas, this highly-regarded institution emphasizes the trivium of grammar, logic, and rhetoric across all grade levels. Students benefit from a rigorous academic program that includes Latin instruction, Socratic dialogue, and advanced mathematics. The school features beautiful campus facilities, competitive athletic teams, and a strong sense of community. With exceptional teacher-student ratios and a focus on character development, Cambridge prepares students for leadership and academic success at top colleges and universities.
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Prestonwood Christian Academy
Prestonwood Baptist Church
Prestonwood Christian Academy is a premier private Christian school serving Plano and surrounding communities with a comprehensive college-preparatory education. The academy features state-of-the-art facilities including advanced science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. With a strong emphasis on spiritual formation and academic excellence, PCA offers a rigorous curriculum complemented by championship athletic programs, award-winning fine arts, and extensive community service opportunities. The school maintains small class sizes and boasts a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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The Hockaday School
Independent
The Hockaday School is one of the nation's premier college-preparatory schools for girls, serving students from Plano and across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With over a century of educational excellence, Hockaday offers an unparalleled academic experience featuring advanced STEM laboratories, extensive arts facilities, and comprehensive athletic complexes. The school's rigorous curriculum emphasizes leadership development, global perspectives, and ethical education. Hockaday graduates consistently gain admission to Ivy League and other top-tier universities, supported by exceptional college counseling and academic advising. The campus features state-of-the-art technology, extensive library resources, and beautiful learning environments designed to foster intellectual curiosity and personal growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Plano, Texas
What are the main types of private schools available in Plano, Texas, and how do they differ?
Plano offers a diverse range of private schools catering to different educational philosophies and needs. You'll find prominent faith-based institutions like Prestonwood Christian Academy, which provides a comprehensive college-preparatory education within a Christian worldview. There are also prestigious single-gender schools, such as The Hockaday School (all-girls, located nearby in Dallas but drawing many Plano families), emphasizing leadership and rigorous academics. Additionally, Plano has independent college-prep schools, international baccalaureate (IB) programs, and Montessori options. The key differences lie in curricular focus, religious affiliation, student life, and school culture, making it essential for Plano parents to visit campuses to find the best fit.
How does tuition for private schools in Plano, TX, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at top private schools in the Plano area is generally at or above the Texas state average for private education, reflecting the region's high academic standards and extensive resources. For the 2024-2025 school year, annual tuition at major schools like Prestonwood Christian Academy or The Cambridge School of Dallas can range from approximately $20,000 to $30,000+ for upper grades. However, most Plano-area private schools offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need, and many participate in Texas's state-funded tuition assistance program, the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) for eligible families. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What unique academic or extracurricular specializations do Plano-area private schools offer that leverage local resources?
Plano's position in the DFW metroplex allows its private schools to develop unique specializations tied to local industries. Many schools have strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) and computer science programs, partnering with nearby corporate headquarters like Toyota, JPMorgan Chase, and numerous tech firms for internships and mentorships. Schools like The Cambridge School of Dallas emphasize classical education, while others offer renowned arts programs that utilize Dallas's cultural institutions. Additionally, several Plano private schools have competitive athletics programs within the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), and many feature entrepreneurship tracks that tap into the local business community.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Plano, Texas?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools in Plano is highly structured and often begins over a year in advance. For a fall start, the timeline typically opens in August or September with open houses and campus tours. Application deadlines are usually between December and February, with assessments, student interviews, and teacher recommendations required shortly after. Admission decisions are commonly released in March. Given the competitive nature of schools like The Hockaday School or Prestonwood Christian Academy, Plano parents are advised to start research early, attend fall open houses, and ensure all application materials are submitted well before deadlines. Many schools also have sibling and legacy applicant priority.
For families moving to Plano, how do the top-rated Plano ISD public schools influence the decision to choose a private school?
Plano ISD is consistently ranked among the best public school districts in Texas, which significantly shapes the private school decision. Many families choose private schools in Plano not due to poor public options, but for specific reasons such as a desire for a particular religious foundation, smaller class sizes, alternative educational philosophies (e.g., classical, Montessori), or more specialized programs for gifted students or those with learning differences. The decision often comes down to personal educational values and fit rather than academic quality alone. The presence of excellent public schools also means Plano's private schools are highly motivated to differentiate themselves, leading to innovative programs and exceptional facilities.