There are many reasons why parents are choosing to elect a private school education for their child. One of the main reasons being that parents want to ensure that their children are getting the academic programs that they need to prepare themselves for college. Another reason parents are moving their children to private school is for the extracurricular activities and athletic programs offered.
The number of private schools in the U.S. is growing, too. According to the Private School Universe Study, from the National Center for Education Statistics, there were 33,319 private, elementary and secondary schools with 5,396,000 students choosing to move into private education.
These private schools run the gamut – from elite preparatory academies that cost more than $30,000 annually to less expensive parochial schools where tuition is often offset by generous dona- tions. According to the most recent statistics from the National Association of Independent Schools, tuition for day schools ranged from a few thousand dollars to more than $30,000 a year, while median day-school tuition was $10,003 (half of schools charge more, and half charge less).
With a community of nearly over 7.1 million people, it’s not surprising that there are hundreds of private schools in the metroplex and surrounding communities. The following is a list of the 25 largest private schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that include grades served, address, contact information and website, where available. We’ve also included a general sampling of other private schools in the area to give you an idea of the depth and variety the Dallas/Fort Worth area offers for private education.
For a more comprehensive listing of other area private schools and more detailed information about each school – including tuition, admissions requirements, maps, reviews, and the ability to search by price, location, and more – please refer to the Internet resources listed on the following page. For national educational resources, including private school information, please refer to our listing of National Education Resources in this section.
TOP DFW-AREA PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Alcuin School
6144 Churchill Way, Dallas 75230
972-239-1745
www.alcuinschool.org
Alcuin School has been dedicated to educational excellence, and to the success of every child, since its founding in 1964. Offering a uniquely nurturing experience for children from toddlers through high school, Alcuin provides a proven, effective, progressive education. They strive to empower children by inspiring “Passionate Learners and Innovative Thinkers.” Grades PreK-12
All Saints Episcopal School
9700 Saints Circle, Fort Worth 76108
817-560-5700
www.asesftw.org
The school was formed and originally named St. Andrews Episcopal School. Early in 1976, All Saints Episcopal Day School was incorporated as a legal entity. An independent school board was formed, and the school year began with an enroll- ment of 118 students and 11 faculty members. All Saints Episcopal School is an independent school for students in 3K through the twelfth grade. Offering a challenging, college prep curriculum in a nurturing, Christian environment, All Saints has earned a reputation for academic excellence. Grades K-12
Bishop Lynch High School
9750 Ferguson Road, Dallas, 75228
214-324-3607
www.bishoplynch.org
Bishop Lynch High School is a college preparatory school of the Diocese of Dallas (grades 9-12) founded by the Dominican Order in east Dallas, T exas (USA). It is located in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas. It opened in 1963 with 365 students and now has over 1,000 students. Faithful to Catholic Tradition and to our Dominican heritage of scholarship and service, Bishop Lynch High School promotes the development of the total person by bringing together a diverse community in a rigorous, college preparatory environment where students are taught to strive for excellence, seek truth, and work for justice in the world. Grades 9-12
Cambridge School of Dallas
3877 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75229
214-357-2995
www.cambridgedallas.org
The Cambridge School of Dallas was opened in 1996. It is a Christ-centered classical college preparatory school, with a philosophy of “Academic Discipleship.” The school develops both the minds and souls of young Christians by emphasizing classical education. Grades 6-12
Cistercian Preparatory School
All-boys school
3660 Cistercian Road, Irving 75039
469-499-5400
www.cistercian.org
Cistercian Preparatory School opened in 1962 and today serves 355 students in grades 5-12. The school’s student body is culturally and economically diverse, representing about 25 different feeder schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Student to faculty ratio is 7:1; 54 percent of faculty members have advanced degrees; and 17 percent have a PhD or equivalent degree. Grades 5-12
The Clariden School of Southlake
100 Clariden Ranch Road, Southlake 76092
682-237-0400
www.claridenschool.org
Established in 1986, The Clariden School of Southlake serves children ages 3 to 18. The combination of an AMI Montessori Lower School program for Primary and Elementary aged children and a 21st Century project-based Global Strengths program for grades 7-12 is a hallmark of The Clariden School of Southlake and its unique educa-tional approach. Grades K-12
Coram Deo Academy
6464 East Lovers Lane, Dallas 75214
972-385-6187
www.coramdeoacademy.org
4700 Wichita Trail, Flower Mound, 75022
682-237-0232
www.coramdeoacademy.org
Lower: 2400 State Hwy 121, Plano, 75025
Upper: 9725 Independence Pkwy, Plano, 75025
800-465-0561
www.coramdeoacademy.org
Established in 1999, Coram Deo Academy is an accredited, non-denominational, day school serving Christian families at three locations in the DFW metroplex. They strive to train the next generation of ethical servant leaders and wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God. Grades PreK-12
Covenant Christian Academy
901 Cheek Sparger Road, Colleyville 76034
817-281-4333
www.covenantchristian.net
Covenant Christian Academy is an independent, Christian, college preparatory day school founded in 1979 with a classical curriculum that combines a rigorous academic program with exemplary fine arts and outstanding athletics. Partnering with Christian parents to provide a remarkable education, their academic philosophy is founded on 2500 years of the best educational practices. Every course of study ultimately directs students to emulate the perfect excellence found in Christ. The school is located on a beautiful 17 acre campus in Colleyville, just minutes from DFW International Airport. Grades PreK3 -12
Dallas Christian Academy
4025 N. Central Expressway, Dallas 75204
214-528-6327
www.dallaschristianacademy.org
Established in 1952, Dallas Christian Academy provides quality Seventh-day Adventist education for the children and youth of the Dallas area. They provide the benefits of an intimate learning environment and a focus on educating and developing the whole person. Young people are encouraged to excel academically and develop healthy bodies and thriving spiri- tual lives. Grades PK-12
Dallas International School
6039 Churchill Way, Dallas 75230
972-991-6379
dallasinternationalschool.org
17811 Waterview Pkwy, Dallas 75252
469-250-0001
dallasinternationalschool.org
Dallas International School (DIS) educates students of all backgrounds to contribute to a dynamic world with its internationally renowned curriculum, multiple language instruction, and exposure to diverse cultural views. Accredited by the French Ministry of National Education, the International Baccalaureate Organization and the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest, DIS offers a language immersion academic curriculum taught in English, French and Spanish, leading to the French Baccalaureate Diploma or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. PreK2 – 12th grade
Episcopal School of Dallas
Middle/Upper School:
4100 Merrell Rd., Dallas 75229
214-358-4368
www.esdallas.org
Lower School:
4344 Colgate Avenue, Dallas 75225
214-353-5818
www.esdallas.org
The Episcopal School of Dallas is a coed- ucational academic community founded in 1974 by the Reverend Stephen B. Swann and a group of Episcopalian local leaders. They prepare young men and women for lives of intellectual discovery, integrity, and purpose. The School develops the unique talent and potential in each student and embraces sound learning, discipline, and faith as essential elements of an educated conscience. Grades PK-12
Fort Worth Christian School
6200 Holiday Lane
North Richland Hills 76180
817-281-6504
www.fwc.org
Fort Worth Christian School was established in 1956, A Christ-centered community which provides a safe environment, a quality education and a spiritual influence in the lives of children. They encourage students to grow through educational programs that are designed to meet their diversified needs, interests, and abilities. Grades PreK-12
Fort Worth Country Day
4200 Country Day Lane
Fort Worth 76109
817-732-7718
www.fwcd.org
Established in 1963, Fort Worth Country Day offers families of Fort Worth and surrounding areas an advanced curric- ulum, comprehensive in its emphasis of the humanities, sciences, arts, and athletics. The School values diversity in its community and encourages openness of thought and freedom of inquiry. Through its program, the School seeks to develop enthusiastic, thinking, well-rounded and responsible citizens equipped for success in college and life. Grades K-12
Heritage Christian Academy
1408 S. Goliad Street, Rockwall 75087
972-772-3003
www.hcarockwall.org
Heritage Christian Academy is a Christ-cen- tered, college-preparatory, family-focused school that is fully accredited from K3 through 12th grade. HCA’s mis-sion is to work in partnership with families to produce a distinctively Christian, college prepara- tory environment by offering excellence in athletics, academics, fine arts and missions/ service. The school has had 14 AP Scholars, 1 National Merit Scholar, and 2 National Merit Commended Scholar. Grades K-12
The Highlands School
1451 East Northgate Drive, Irving 75062
972-554-1980
www.thehighlandsschool.org
The Highlands School is a private Catholic school that uses the “Inte- gral Formation™ method of education developed by the Legionaries of Christ” – emphasizing Apostolic, Character, Intellec- tual and Spiritual Formation. The school’s rigorous college preparatory program includes disciplined study in sciences, history, mathematics, literature, religion and philosophy. Grades PreK-12
The Hockaday School
All-girls school
11600 Welch Road, Dallas 75229
214-363-6311
www.hockaday.org
Founded in 1913 by Ela Hockaday, The Hockaday School is an independent, secular, college preparatory school for girls pre-kindergarten to grade 12 located in Dallas, Texas, USA on an 88-acre campus. A Hockaday girl believes in herself and is confident to follow her dreams and to make a difference in the world. Hockaday was founded on a transformative academic program, and our girls’ achievements are inspiring. From robust classroom experiences to team competitions to ensemble productions, Hockaday girls are celebrated for their individual and collaborative talents
Jesuit College Preparatory School
All-boys school
12345 Inwood Rd., Dallas 75244
972-387-8700
www.jesuitcp.org
Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas (Jesuit Dallas) was founded in 1942 as a private Catholic institution for young men under the direction of the Society of Jesus. Located on a 27-acre campus in North Dallas, the school provides a rigorous student-centered Jesuit education to approx- imately 1,100 students in grades 9-12 with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio. Grades 9-12
John Paul II High School
900 Coit Road, Plano 75075
972-867-0005
www.johnpauliihs.org
John Paul II High School is a 317,000 square foot Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school serving grades 9-12 and is the first opened in the Dicocese of Dallas in more than 40 years. Founded in 2005, the school’s community comprises “a diverse body of students and educators that strives for excellence, values individuality, fosters a passion for learning, promotes the balanced development of faith, mind, and body, encourages community service, and instills a respect for others.” Grades 9-12
Lakehill Preparatory School
2720 Hillside Drive, Dallas 75213
214-826-2931
www.lakehillprep.org
Lakehill Preparatory School is a fully accredited, co-educational school for K-12 students located in the Lake- wood neighborhood in east Dallas. An academic community dedicated to the whole student, Lakehill combines a robust, college preparatory curriculum with opportunities for personal growth, individual enrichment, and community engagement. Small class sizes ensure a supportive learning environment and personal attention. Grades K-12
Liberty Christian School
1301 S. Highway 377, Argyle 76226
940-294-2000
www.libertychristian.com
Since 1983, Liberty Christian School has existed to rise up godly leaders who will make a difference in their world. They offer a Christ-centered, college preparatory education from preschool through 12th grade with excellence in academics, fine arts, athletics, and spiritual life. Liberty currently holds the Overall State Championship for the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools in the largest division, TAPPS 5A. Grades PK-12
The Montessori Academy of Arlington
3428 W. Arkansas Lane, Arlington 76016
817-274-1548
www.tmaonline.org
The Montessori Academy (TMA) in Arlington was formed in 1981 by a parent cooperative from 13 families. TMA was the only Montessori school in the country to be named a Blue Ribbon School for the 1998- 1999 school year. A diverse school, TMA features a philosophy of respect, active participation in learning, critical thinking, and parent involvement. Grades PreK-6
Nolan Catholic High School
4501 Bridge Street, Fort Worth 76103
817-457-2920
www.nolancatholichs.org
Founded in 1961, Nolan Catholic High School is a ministry of the Diocese of Fort Worth evangelizing students to be tomor- row’s servant leaders through Education in Faith, Formation in Hope, and Perseverance in Charity. The school is the largest college preparatory school of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. Grades 9-12
The Oakridge School
5900 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington 76013
817-451-4994
www.theoakridgeschool.org
Established in 1979, The Oakridge School serves students and families from thirty cities and ten countries. With 850 bright, college-bound students enrolled in fifteen grade levels, Oakridge offers a full menu of curricular and extracurricular opportunities in a dynamic, student-centered environment. Grades PK-12
Pantego Christian Academy
2201 West Park Row Drive, Arlington 76013
817-460-3315
www.pantego.com
2351 Country Club Drive, Mansfield 76063
817-522-5900
www.pantego.com
Pantego Christian Academy was started in 1963 by Pantego Bible Church on a 7-acre site between Arlington and Pantego to fulfill the desire of some of the church members for a Christian kindergarten for their children. PCA exists to glorify God by partnering with Christian parents to provide a Christ-centered education preparing students for college and the passionate pursuit of God’s plan for their lives. Grades PK-12
The Parish Episcopal School
Lower Campus: 14115 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas 75254
Upper Campus: 4101 Sigma Dr., Dallas 75244
972-239-8011
www.parishepiscopal.org
Established in 1972, Parish Episcopal School is a co-ed Pre-K through 12th grade indepen- dent school in Dallas dedicated to enriching students’ lives with an innovative and inspiring education in a supportive commu- nity. Inspired by values of Wisdom, Honor and Service, Parish Episcopal School’s inclu- sive Episcopal community guides young people to become creative learners and bold leaders prepared to impact our complex global society. Grades PK-12
Prestonwood Christian Academy
6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano 75093
972-820-5300
www.prestonwoodchristian.org
1001 West Prosper Trail, Prosper 75078
972-930-4010
www.prestonwoodchristian.org
Prestonwood Christian Academy was established for the purpose of impacting lives for eternity through biblical- ly-based, Christ-centered education. With approximately 1,500 students enrolled in pre-kindergarten through grade12, and over 1,100 graduates, Prestonwood Christian Academy has been recognized as one of the leading Christian schools in the United States. In addition to its physical school campuses, Prestonwood Christian Academy also has a fully accredited virtual academy, PCAplus. Grades PK-12
Prince of Peace Christian School
4004 Midway Rd., Carrollton 75007
972-447-0532
www.popcs.org
Prince of Peace Christian School and Early Learning Center provides a Christ-centered exemplary education equipping students as disciples and leaders for service and success in the 21st century. In its 36th year of exem- plary education, Prince of Peace Christian School, a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, serves children ages six weeks through 12th grade. It encompasses a 27-acre campus with more than 150,000 square feet, including the Early Learning Center, Low-er School, Middle School, High School, 12 acres of sports fields, gated playgrounds, and gymna- siums. Grades PK-12
The Shelton School
15720 Hillcrest Rd., Dallas 75248
972-774-1772
www.shelton.org
Shelton is the largest private school for students with learning differences. Primary emphasis is providing learning-different children (average or above intelligence) with full, effective curriculum through individu- alized, structured multisensory programs. Learning differences include dyslexia, atten- tion deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), speech and language disorders. Grades PK-12
St. John’s Episcopal Church and School
848 Harter Road, Dallas 75218
214-321-6451
www.stjohnsschool.org
St. John’s Episcopal School a Pre-K through eighth grade co-educational school in East Dallas. Created as an outreach of St. John’s Episcopal Church in 1953, it’s the oldest Episcopal school in Dallas and is committed to the five tenets of an Episcopal education: “academic excellence; worship (Episcopal/ Christian chapel); religiousstudies based on basic biblical content; meaningful and integrated community service and service learning projects; and promoting an inclusive community where the dignity of every human being is respected.” Grades PreK-8
St. Marks School of Texas
All-boys school
10600 Preston Road, Dallas 75230
214-346-8000
www.smtexas.org
Established in 1906, St. Mark’s School of Texas is a non-sectarian, college-prepara- tory, independent day school for boys in grades one through twelve. The School’s charter states that it is “designed to afford its students well-rounded physical, intel- lectual, moral, and religious training and instruction.” The School is intended to be a diverse community of teachers and students who share a love of learning and who strive for high achievement in what- ever they undertake. Grades 1-12
St. Monica Catholic School
4140 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas 75229
214-351-5688
www.stmonicaschool.org
St. Monica Catholic School has been educating the children of its parish and the Dallas community since 1955. It is one the largest Catholic schools in the state of Texas. St. Monica Catholic School develops the whole child by fostering the love of God, respect for self and others, and belief in gospel values, according to Roman Catholic principles, in an atmo- sphere of academic excellence. Grades PK-8
St. Timothy Preschool
3001 Forest Ridge Drive, Bedford 76021
817-685-6751
www.sttimothy-preschool.com
Founded in 1982, St. Timothy Preschool has nurtured and enriched the lives of Tarrant County children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 5 years. St. Timothy “combines loving childcare with a curriculum of age-appro- priate activities to create a safe, positive environment for children. The school’s goal is to “develop well-rounded children who can transition through each age and stage of their formative years with confidence…by providing loving, Christian care and exem- plary preschool education in a safe and fun environment.” Grades Pre-K
Trinity Christian Academy
17001 Addison Road, Addison 75001
972-931-8325
www.trinitychristian.org
Trinity Christian Academy is a conserva- tive multi-denominational Christian school in Addison, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, that was founded in the late 1960s. It is one of the largest Christian schools in the United States. Trinity Christian Academy is one of the largest single-campus, preK–12 schools in the country serving 1,444 students. The school is fully accredited, K-12, by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Grades K-12
Trinity Valley School
7500 Dutch Branch Road, Fort Worth 76132
817-321-0100
www.trinityvalleyschool.org
Founded in 1959 by George Bragg and Stephen Seleny, Trinity Valley School is an independent, coed, college preparatory school serving grades K-12 in southwest Fort Worth, Texas. Trinity Valley School has four main objectives for its students: fine scholarship with its fulfillment at college; the development of wide constructive interests; intelligent citizen- ship; and spiritual and moral development which promotes lasting values. Grades K-12
Ursuline Academy of Dallas
All-girls school
4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas 75229
469-232-1800
www.ursulinedallas.org
Ursuline Academy of Dallas is an indepen- dent Catholic college preparatory school for young women in grades 9-12. Educating students for 142 years, the Academy is the oldest continuously operating school in Dallas. With a distinguished tradition of academic excellence, innovation and service, Ursuline educates young women for leadership in a global society. The school is a member of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas and was founded in 1874, making it the oldest school in the city of Dallas. Grades 9-12