2024 Best Private High Schools in Maryland

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  137 reviews

Parent: Without a doubt, Holton Arms is the best decision we've made with our daughter's education. From academics to diversity... the community to the athletics, Holton Arms is... hands down... a great place for girls to grow, create community and to build great educational & social skills. As a family who's been a part of lower, middle & upper school, we love the support of each division and the opportunities for risk taking and maturation that our daughter has been exposed to. We highly recommend Holton Arms!... Read 137 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 665

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  313 reviews

Parent: Bryn Mawr School and their teachers and administration continue to impress us. There is so much warmth, kindness, engagement and a true passion motivating our girls to be excited about learning and growing! My daughter's 5th grade teacher has helped her grow as a writer and given her such a strong foundation and understanding of math as well. We feel very lucky that our daughter has been able to learn in such a positive and supportive environment.... Read 313 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 713

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  62 reviews

Parent: We sent our twin boys to Landon two years ago in response to MCPS's delay in going back to school during the pandemic. We had friends with children there during the pandemic and the priority that Landon put on their students' mental health was very apparent. They made sure to keep the boys physically safe while also educating them and allowing the boys to have physical activity and maintain friendships. Although the pandemic is now behind us, our boys couldn't imagine leaving Landon. The relationships that they have built with their classmates and teachers are deep. The teachers do more than educate - they get to know the student on a personal level and they become mentors. My boys have very different personalities - you would never know that they are twins - but both of them think Landon is the perfect school for them. I think that says a lot about the nurturing environment. Everyone knows everyone. From the head of school to the maintenance crew, everyone is friendly and polite.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 700

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  72 reviews

Senior: The four years that I've spent at this school have simultaneously been the hardest and best years of my life to date. Although I did miss out of some experiences due to COVID, I was still able to make the most out of it, whether it be hanging out with my friends - wherever and whenever - or trying new classes and experiences. I feel as though the school truly prepared me for the college experience because of their elite guidance, especially in the last two years when it mattered the most.... Read 72 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,016

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• North Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  70 reviews

Parent: The best all-boy high school! My son grew so much from the rigorous studies, incredible teachers, and awesome sports. Prep does an amazing job of turning these young boys into competent men who are ready for college and the world. These high school graduates are not just academically prepared for college but are thoughtful, kind young men. My husband and I found lifelong friends within this beautiful, welcoming community. Truly impressed with the education our son received and the incredible community he'll be a part of forever.... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 506

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  24 reviews

Parent: Rochambeau follows the French curriculum, most classes are taught in French, but it is more an international school with IB options. Our daughters have had classmates from endless countries (around 70 represented). It prepares our children to live with others that have different cultures, languages, experiences, and religions ... in other words, it prepares them for their multicultural future. Studying at Rochambeau can be challenging at times, because of the high academic level of the French system, but this high amount of work will also depend on the (many) options that are offered. All of this is also balanced by a great School's sports teams program which is a fantastic experience for our children. Lastly, my husband studied there in high school in the early 90s and he still has many friends that he still sees regularly. So your children will create lifetime bonds with an international community.... Read 24 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,149

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Stevenson, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  103 reviews

Alum: My exchange year experience in St. Timothy’s school was excellent. I’m from Spain and I spent my sophomore year as a boarder. I had never spent a year away from home and I was terrified at first but after only a month this school felt like a new home to me and I made friends that are like family. The girls were very welcoming and I made friends from all over the world. Right now after two years I still keep in touch with them, I’ve recently come to Maryland to visit my best friend from school. One of the best things about St. Tim’s are the teachers, I could always count on them for an extra explanation which made adapting to the IB program easy. After some time I even switched to harder classes! St. Tim’s allowed me to grow as a person, I went from being very shy to being confident and independent. St. Timothy’s encouraged me to participate in every class and I learnt how to enjoy expressing my opinions in public. I will always feel part of the st. Tim’s community.... Read 103 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 175

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  139 reviews

Parent: After retaining an educational consultant and searching the entire DMV for the right independent school, we chose Stone Ridge. We were impressed with the school's sprawling campus and Aquatic Center, but fell in love with the all-girl environment and the school's ubiquitous message of empowerment. Our lower and middle school daughters have already formed wonderful friendships and a love of learning! My middle schooler is constantly challenged in her rigorous curriculum, but as she puts it, "I never knew school was supposed to be fun." In summary: Best. Decision. Ever.... Read 139 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 757

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Annapolis, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  199 reviews

Parent: Before enrolling our daughter in Key School, my wife and I used to receive daily phone calls and text messages from her Kindergarten teacher in the Baltimore City School that she attended detailing how our child's behavior was unacceptable and disruptive. We tried working with the City teachers to find ways to engage our child, but they never followed through with any of our suggestions or used any of the tools we gave them to help manage the behaviors that manifested as a result of being bored. Our daughter hated school and would resist getting up each day. Since our daughter has had the opportunity to go to Key School, we have seen a 1000% difference in her educational experience, and I can only attribute that to the extremely gifted teachers, the exceptionally caring staff and the extraordinary administrators at Key School who meet children where they are, look for their strengths and help them grow. Now my daughter never wants to leave school, and I couldn't be happier with that!... Read 199 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 660

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  134 reviews

Parent: There are so many aspects of Bullis that we love and it is hard to fit them all in one review! We have 3 children at the school who are very different learners, different personalities and different interests. Yet each is thriving at Bullis and the teachers meet each of their needs. We love that school is joyful and fun. Our kids WANT to go to school and have fun learning. They get a great balance of academics, arts, athletics, STEM, etc. It is a nice community of parents and friends who watch out for each other and help each other. And there is a strong value to diversity in race, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, style of learning, etc. It is a very special place!... Read 134 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,023

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Owings Mills, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  170 reviews

Senior: I have had the pleasure of attending McDonogh School for two years, and I must say that my overall experience has been nothing short of amazing. The faculty and staff are incredibly knowledgeable and caring, always going above and beyond to ensure that every student feels supported and valued. The curriculum is rigorous yet engaging, and I have been able to explore a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities that have helped me grow as a person. The school culture is one of inclusivity and diversity, and I have made countless lifelong friendships with people from all walks of life. I am truly grateful for my time at McDonogh School and would recommend it to anyone looking for a top-notch education and a welcoming community.... Read 170 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,455

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  82 reviews

Alum: I attended Park School for 13 years (Kindergarten-12th Grade) and I couldn’t have wished for a better experience. I received a phenomenal education which prepared me well for college and taught me core values of advocating for myself, thinking outside the box, challenging my mind and more! The teachers want nothing more than for their students to succeed which is made possible by their incredible teaching as well as other recourses Park offers such as tutoring, counseling, and more! I honestly have nothing bad to say about Park School and after 13 years, I believe that speaks for itself. The school mainly has a hands on learning style but teachers frequently ask their students how they thrive (and what learning style works best for them). Personally, I believe it’s the incredible staff and students excited to learn which makes Park so special but we also have a incredible campus. I wish everyone had the opportunity to attend this pre K- 12 institution.... Read 82 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 856

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: My kids have been in the SAES lower school for three years now, and have had a wonderful experience. The teachers and administration are warm and supportive, and my kids have loved all of them. When one of my kids (and a few others in the class) needed some help with reading in K, they put together a small group to receive some additional attention from the head of the lower school to ensure the challenges were addressed: he is now reading very well! I also like that SAES goes through 12th grade: happy to not have to go through an application process until college as long as it continues to be the right environment for our kids (which I hope it will!).... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 707

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Owings Mills, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  111 reviews

Parent: Our daughter started at Garrison Forest in 5th grade (switched from a Baltimore County Public School) and we wish we moved her sooner! She is currently in 6th grade and has blossomed into a wonderful student, a passionate leader, and a caring community member. Garrison offers the most caring, encouraging, welcoming and, simultaneously, academically rigorous experience. Every person on that campus wants our daughters to succeed. The education is geared specifically toward empowering and encouraging girls to take changes in science, math, arts, sports, and anything else you can think of. Having visited and looked at all the private schools in our area, we could not imagine our daughter anywhere else. She goes to school with a huge smile on her face and come home full of amazing stories and experiences.... Read 111 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 513

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Ellicott City, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  80 reviews

Parent: Peaceful, secure, country campus with outstanding teachers and hands on educational and extra curricular programs. Our son is flourishing in school academics, band, and in the middle school tennis program!... Read 80 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 761

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  196 reviews

Parent: We have had an AMAZING experience at RPCS. My daughter started here in kindergarten and I could not be happier with her experience. She came home almost every day telling me new things that she learned - she even completed a research project on an arctic animal! In first grade, her confidence and social coping skills have developed so much, and she can read independently now! Her favorite subjects are math and dance. The astronomy lessons in science class now have her wanting to be the first woman to walk on Mars! The concerts are so impressive here - in just two years I have seen my daughter sing, dance, and play an instrument on stage. It's truly incredible. We love being a RED!... Read 196 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 596

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  106 reviews

Senior: I came to FSB as a freshman in 2019, and even throughout the COVID pandemic, I loved my time there. The other students were always friendly, which I appreciated immensely, especially as I transitioned from a middle school where I did not fit in at all. I found several groups, formed either organically/randomly or by shared extracurriculars, that I felt entirely at ease with. The teachers were incredibly supportive. I am graduating with a stronger enthusiasm for subjects like English that I liked as a freshman, and a newfound love for math and music. While I was often stressed out by assignments or exams, when I look back that stress pales in comparison to how much I enjoyed my classes, rehearsals (I loved my time in chorus and the musicals), and friendships. The college counselors were also amazing and so helpful throughout the college process.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 790

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Hagerstown, MD•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  63 reviews

Senior: My time at Saint James has been absolutely wonderful! I could go on forever about the great food, the fantastic friends I have made along the way, the interesting teachers I have met, the immaculate vibes the campus holds, and so many other things that could not fit under 1000 characters. SJS is a delightful place to be and to send your children. While I was there, I was really encouraged to come out of my shell and try things that were new and terrifying. My only complaint is the lack of diversity among the teachers. It would be nice to have a teacher who looked like me every once in a while. That being said, SJS tries to make everyone feel included and definitely succeeds on that front. I will always hold this place in high esteem in my heart!... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 240

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Sandy Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  79 reviews

Sophomore: I have attended SSFS since kindergarten and love my "lifer" experience. The best part has been the community of friends made over the years and the support received from my teachers. I have felt comfortable and safe as well as ready to learn always! Sometimes, it can be difficult to deal with some students who want to be difficult, but I have been supported by faculty and staff to help me be my best and move forward from conflicts. I would like to see improved offerings in the school cafeteria because the choices are not always the best.... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 676

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Olney, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  210 reviews

Senior: I have loved Our Lady of Good Counsel. My best experience has to be in the arts department. I am very active in this department whether it be in theatre, band (I play the Tuba), or chorus. I believe it’s one of the most under appreciated parts of my school and would like to see more allocation towards this department because it is truly special and one of a kind!... Read 210 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,255

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Kensington, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  193 reviews

Senior: Going to the Academy of the Holy Cross, I’ve discovered who I am. I loved growing and learning with other young women and sharing different life/culture/ religious experiences with one another. One great memory that I have from Holy Cross is our Holy Cross days! Huge competition between all the grades from 9-12. At the end of the day we all come together as a community and close with a prayer. Even though traditions at Holy Cross do change I hope that everyone’s energy is in the same place! That is something I hope would never change. One thing I would like to see more from Holy Cross are more presentations and celebrations about people cultures. The Academy of the Holy Cross does a good job with celebrating but I hope that there is a little more effort. I love being apart of the celebration and talking about my heritage.... Read 193 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 390

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Potomac, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  15 reviews

Works Here: I am thrilled to share my overwhelmingly positive experience at this exceptional institution. The school's commitment to fostering a vibrant international community make it a true gem in the heart of our nation's capital.First and foremost, the sense of community at the German International School is simply unparalleled. The strong emphasis on culture creates a unique atmosphere where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels welcome and appreciated. The school's Mint/STEM program is undoubtedly one of its biggest strengths. The dedication of our educators to providing cutting-edge learning experience is evident in the way they passionately deliver the curriculum. The dedication of the faculty and staff at the German International School cannot go unnoticed. Their unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of each student is truly commendable. They create a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 555

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Broolandville, MD•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  61 reviews

Parent: My son attended 5th grade at the St. Paul's School for boys last year and will be entering 6th grade Fall 2023. He was nervous at first coming from the coed lower school. I appreciate the school's transition process in place to prepare the students and help them to feel comfortable. By the first day of 5th grade my son was more excited and less nervous. His excitement to go to school increased as the year progressed. Being in middle school did have it's challenges as my son was learning to navigate through social challenges of interacting with his peers and advocating for himself with his teachers. I must say that I have been pleased with the level of involvement and response from teachers and administrators. I saw my son grow, gaining knowledge that goes beyond the classroom. He has gained confidence, acknowledged his struggles and his areas of greatness, and most of all, exhibited a since of independence that makes me proud. A great place to learn and grow!... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 530

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Huntingtown, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  52 reviews

Parent: I have seen many positive changes at Calverton is my sons' decade + time there. The current Board and Administration "gets" it. The College Counseling is awesome and the Admissions Team is focusing on the "right" type of student (and families). The School is strong, diverse, multi-cultural, and growing. A lot of the malcontents have moved on. For example, the Boys Varsity Soccer team won the league title last Fall (and was undefeated in league play)-the team was a really tight group w/ players from the USA (Maryland and other states), Bermuda, Cayman Islands, and Hong Kong. The Coaches are from Bermuda and England. The parents formed a great bond. It was a magical season and showed the School is a really fine light. Calverton is a School on the rise!... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 273

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Silver Spring, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  20 reviews

Senior: The Barrie School is a very diverse high school in terms of the student population. The diversity between faculty and administration is definitely lacking. Since the staff is not very diverse students of color often experience many microaggressions. The school's academics are solid because they have a creative curriculum that uses a project-based learning approach. The student-to-teacher ratio is quite small which allows students to truly get one-on-one attention if they need it. Since the student body is so small the school is not great for socializing and activities. In terms of college prep, they have a specific college counselor that helps students with the college process throughout their high school career. The school offers a program called "extended study week" where students can travel locally or abroad and learn about different topics.... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 364

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1