We asked parents and students for their perspective and appreciation of private school experiences. Here’s what they have to say:
“Roman is learning concrete life skills and we have a whole new perspective on the possibilities for him and his future. He is celebrated and seen at Benedictine!”
—Parents of student, The Benedictine School
“The Country School is more than a school; it’s a family. The core values are seriously demonstrated by the staff, teachers, students, and parents. When we see the daily excitement in his eyes, it confirms that we made the absolute right decision.”
—Sheila J., parent, The Country School
“When my daughter first graduated from Gunston, she walked onto a college campus and was able to organize herself without any stress and enjoy that first semester, [and] she was comfortable advocating for herself, because Gunston had taught her how to be responsible for her work, as they have with all my kids.”
—Derrika Baughman, parent to five alumni and current students, The Gunston School
“Choosing Key School was one of the best decisions we’ve made for our child. As the parent of a recent graduate, I can say without hesitation that Key has exceeded our expectations—not just academically, but in preparing our child for life beyond high school.”
—Sarah S., parent, Key School
“There is something about Kent School that allows every child to find the spotlight. It might be academically, in the arts or athletics, at a bee or in an essay contest, or in a leadership role. With so many opportunities to shine, students feel comfortable there so it’s a natural progression for them to continue on that path in high school.”
—Anonymous alumni parent, Kent School
“Lighthouse Christian Academy represents more than just a school—it’s a place that helps me reinforce the values I’m trying to teach at home: faith, discipline, integrity, and compassion. It’s comforting to know my son is surrounded by teachers and mentors who not only invest in his education but also in his character and heart.”
—John Hozik, parent, Lighthouse Christian Academy
“Severn does a great job of catering to a variety of student interests and passions. It’s really easy and encouraged to get involved beyond the classroom, whether that’s with a club, sport, or specific leadership position like Senior Prefect. Through different seminars offered each year, there’s a focus on knowing yourself well so that you can be yourself and really pursue your passions.”
—Olivia Jishi, senior student, Severn School
“Wye River Upper School helped me realize that learning differently isn’t a weakness—it’s just who I am. Because the teachers focus on my strengths, I’ve gained so much confidence. I’m actually excited about my future.”
—Anonymous alumna, Class of 2023, Wye River Upper School
“Monsignor Slade offers an incredible blend of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a warm, supportive community. We can’t imagine a better place for our children to grow!”
—Bianca H., current parent and alumna, Monsignor Slade Catholic School
“The school has been a phenomenal experience for both of my children. This school is a family. My children have grown in their education and in their faith, they have also learned to be helpful, kind people. The teachers, staff, and administration are likewise phenomenal.”
—Wendy M., parent, School of the Incarnation
“Rockbridge Academy feels like an additional church family to us. It is such a blessing to see people young and old and from various walks of life come together. We have seen the administration and faculty do an amazing job at creating a sense of community that our children can’t wait to be a part of on a daily basis.”
—Hannah E., parent of four current students, Rockbridge Academy
“Our two neurodivergent boys (age 8) have truly found their place at Radcliffe Creek School. After two very rough years in a traditional school setting, we knew something had to change, and RCS welcomed us with open arms. The amount of resources and support they offer parents and families is equally impressive as the support they offer their students.
—Anonymous parent, Radcliffe Creek School
“From the moment we stepped onto the St. Anne’s School campus, we felt something different. There was a genuine sense of belonging, warmth, and intentionality that immediately resonated with our family. Our boys are not just students in a classroom—they are known, valued, and celebrated for who they are.”
—Chriz Rzepkowski, parent, St. Anne’s School of Annapolis
“St. John is an incredible school that has helped develop my academic skills and strengthen my faith. Every day the safe, helpful environment allows me to feel secure and engaged while I learn. I used to believe challenges were obstacles blocking the path to success, but my school has taught me to embrace them as opportunities for growth.”
—Madelyn G., grade six student, St. John the Evangelist
“When we first decided to enroll our son in preschool, we visited more than a dozen preschools in the area. Something about St. Margaret’s felt different than all the rest. They offered STEM classes and promoted green initiatives and understood the value of balancing academics with outdoor play for small children. I often joked that it felt like the Ivy League of preschools.”
—Frank Bolinsky, parent, St. Margaret’s Day School
“Pallotti was an awesome choice for my daughter. Their Arts Academy option is top notch. She received a sizable scholarship to the college of her choice due in large part to her academic experiences at Pallotti.”
—Maria H., alumni parent, St. Vincent Pallotti
“The best decision was sending my son to Sts. Peter and Paul School. The transfer from public school to SSPP was seamless with the support from teachers and administrators. My son has learned academic responsibility and grown in his faith. The caring and safe environment has allowed him to focus on learning with no distractions. Words cannot express the gratitude we have.”
—Anonymous parent, Sts. Peter & Paul School
