The Best Private Schools in Keller, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Keller. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Broadwater Academy
Independent
Broadwater Academy is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving the Eastern Shore of Virginia, including Keller. Established in 1966, the school offers a comprehensive educational program from Pre-K through 12th grade with small class sizes and individualized attention. The academy features a robust curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, strong STEM programs, competitive athletics, and extensive arts education. With modern facilities and a focus on character development, Broadwater Academy has maintained a strong reputation for academic excellence and student success in college admissions.
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Chesapeake Academy
Independent
Chesapeake Academy is an esteemed independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, drawing families from across the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula regions, including Keller area residents. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, character education, and academic rigor within a supportive community environment. Notable programs include their outdoor education curriculum, STEM initiatives, and comprehensive arts programs. The academy's beautiful campus and low student-teacher ratios provide an optimal learning environment that prepares students for success in secondary education and beyond.
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St. Mary's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Richmond
St. Mary's Catholic School serves families throughout the Eastern Shore region, including those in Keller, Virginia. As part of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, the school provides a faith-based education integrated with strong academic foundations. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum from Pre-K through 8th grade with emphasis on moral development, community service, and academic excellence. While maintaining Catholic traditions, the school welcomes students of all faiths and focuses on developing well-rounded individuals through arts, athletics, and community involvement programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Keller, Virginia
What are the primary private school options available for families in Keller, Virginia, and what grade levels do they serve?
Keller, VA, is served by a few notable private institutions, though families often look to schools in the broader Eastern Shore region. The closest and most prominent options include Broadwater Academy (Pre-K through 12th grade, located in Exmore), Chesapeake Academy (Pre-K through 8th grade, located in Irvington), and St. Mary's Catholic School (Pre-K through 8th grade, located in Hampton). Due to Keller's rural setting, commuting to these schools is a common consideration for local families. It's important to research each school's transportation policies, as some may offer limited bus service from central points in Northampton County.
How does tuition at private schools near Keller, VA, compare to state averages, and are there financial aid options specific to Virginia residents?
Tuition for private schools serving the Keller area is generally below the state average for Virginia's major metropolitan areas but is a significant consideration for local family budgets. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 annually for day schools. Virginia offers several financial aid avenues. The most notable is the Virginia Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits Program, which provides tax credits to donors who contribute to scholarship funds for low- and middle-income students attending private schools. Additionally, individual schools like Broadwater Academy and Chesapeake Academy have their own need-based financial aid and scholarship programs. It's crucial to apply for aid early in the admissions cycle.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Keller, VA, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools on Virginia's Eastern Shore, including those accessible to Keller families, often integrate the unique coastal and agricultural environment into their curricula. Broadwater Academy, for instance, has strong marine science and environmental studies programs, with potential for fieldwork in the Chesapeake Bay. Chesapeake Academy emphasizes experiential "place-based" learning, connecting students to the region's history and ecology. Given the rural setting, many schools also have robust agricultural programs or clubs (like FFA) and place a strong emphasis on community service within the tight-knit Eastern Shore communities. These programs provide a distinctive educational experience rooted in the local landscape.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Keller, Virginia, and how far in advance should parents apply?
The enrollment process for schools like Broadwater Academy, Chesapeake Academy, and St. Mary's typically begins in the fall, with application deadlines between January and March for the following academic year. Due to limited seats, especially in lower grades, it is highly advisable for Keller families to begin the process 12-18 months in advance. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview or student visit day. Many schools host open houses in the autumn. Given the commuting distance from Keller, the visit and interview are crucial steps to assess the logistics and fit of the daily travel for your child.
For a family in Keller, what are the key factors when deciding between the local Northampton County Public Schools and a private school option?
The decision often hinges on several location-specific factors. Northampton County Public Schools are tuition-free and close to home, minimizing commute time. However, private options may offer smaller class sizes, different curricular approaches (like college-prep or religious education), and specialized programs not available in the rural public system. For Keller families, the daily commute to a private school (which can be 30-60 minutes each way to the nearest options) is a major practical and financial consideration, involving both time and transportation costs. Many parents choose private schools for consistency in education from kindergarten through high school (available at Broadwater Academy), as opposed to the public system where students may transition to different schools at the county level.
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