By Eddie Franklin Finding the right private school can make a meaningful difference in a child’s educational journey. For families living in Ann Arbor, Michigan, there are private schools offering a variety of educational approaches, including college-preparatory academics, Montessori learning, Christian education, Catholic education, Islamic education, and programmes designed around individual learning needs.
However, choosing a school involves more than simply looking at its name. Parents should consider the child’s age, academic interests, learning style, family values, location, tuition budget, and long-term educational goals.
This guide explores 20 private schools in Ann Arbor and nearby communities, providing an overview of their educational programmes and the admission requirements families should investigate.
Please note: This is a research guide, not an official school ranking. The schools are presented to help families explore their options. Admission requirements, grade offerings, tuition, and enrolment availability may change, so contact each school for its current policies.
Top 20 Private Schools in Ann Arbor and Nearby Communities
1. Greenhills School
Greenhills School is an independent, nonsectarian school in Ann Arbor serving middle and high school students. Its college-preparatory environment makes it an option for families seeking a structured academic programme alongside extracurricular opportunities.
The school is worth investigating for students preparing for university and looking for a broad secondary-school experience.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application form.
- Previous school transcripts and academic records.
- Teacher recommendations, where required.
- Student and parent interviews, if applicable.
- Entrance assessments or other evaluations, if required.
- Application fees and tuition arrangements.
2. Father Gabriel Richard High School
Father Gabriel Richard High School is a Catholic secondary school in Ann Arbor serving Grades 9–12. Its educational programme combines academic learning with Catholic faith formation.
Families considering the school should explore its curriculum, extracurricular activities, student support, and expectations concerning religious education.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Previous academic transcripts.
- Recommendations or school reports, if requested.
- Student and parent meetings, where applicable.
- Any required placement or entrance assessments.
- Information about religious education.
- Tuition, registration fees, and financial aid opportunities.
3. St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School provides Catholic education in Ann Arbor, serving children from preschool through Grade 8.
It may interest families looking for a faith-based environment during their children’s early and middle-school years. Parents should ask about academic programmes, religious instruction, extracurricular activities, and high school transition arrangements.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Application and registration forms.
- Proof of the child’s age.
- Previous school records, if applicable.
- Health and immunization documentation.
- Any required family meeting or student assessment.
- Tuition and other school fees.
4. Emerson School
Emerson School is an independent school in Ann Arbor serving young learners through Grade 8. It is known for its focus on bright and engaged students, with opportunities in areas such as science, technology, the arts, and world languages.
Parents interested in a specialised academic environment should ask how the school supports different learning needs and encourages students to develop their abilities.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student assessment or evaluation, if required.
- Teacher recommendations, if requested.
- Parent and student meetings.
- Tuition and financial aid arrangements.
5. Clonlara School
Clonlara School is an independent, nonsectarian school in Ann Arbor offering programmes from kindergarten through Grade 12. Its educational model places emphasis on individualised learning.
Families considering Clonlara should ask how students develop learning plans, how academic progress is monitored, and what programme options are available.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application and enrolment forms.
- Previous school records.
- Student and family discussions about educational goals.
- Any required placement assessment.
- Information about the school’s learning model.
- Tuition and payment arrangements.
6. Ann Arbor Academy
Ann Arbor Academy is an independent school offering an educational environment designed to support students with differing learning styles. Its programme includes a multisensory approach and an emphasis on academic and social development.
Parents should discuss their child’s learning needs with the school to understand whether its teaching methods and support arrangements are appropriate.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed admission application.
- Previous transcripts and school reports.
- Relevant educational evaluations, if requested.
- Student and parent interviews.
- Any required academic assessment.
- Tuition, fees, and scholarship availability.
7. Ann Arbor Christian School
Ann Arbor Christian School is an interdenominational Christian school in Ann Arbor. Its programme combines academic education with Christian faith integration and serves students through the elementary and middle-school years, with additional high-school provision reported in school listings.
Families should confirm the grades currently offered and ask about the curriculum, faith-based activities, and transition arrangements between school levels.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application and registration forms.
- Previous school records, where applicable.
- Proof of age and grade eligibility.
- Any required assessment or family meeting.
- Information about Christian education and school expectations.
- Tuition, sibling discounts, and financial assistance.
8. Michigan Islamic Academy
Michigan Islamic Academy is a private Islamic school in Ann Arbor offering general academic education alongside Islamic learning.
It may be considered by families seeking an educational environment that incorporates Islamic teachings and practices into school life. Parents should ask about curriculum requirements, religious instruction, and the school’s expectations for students.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed admission application.
- Previous academic records.
- Proof of age and grade eligibility.
- Entrance assessment, if required.
- Parent or student meeting, where applicable.
- Information about Islamic education and school policies.
- Tuition and other fees.
9. St. Paul School of Ann Arbor
St. Paul School of Ann Arbor is a Lutheran Christian school serving students from preschool through Grade 8. It offers families a faith-based educational option in the Ann Arbor area.
Parents should explore its academic curriculum, religious instruction, student activities, and the support available for children transitioning to high school.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Application and registration forms.
- Proof of age.
- Previous school records, where applicable.
- Health and immunization documentation.
- Any required family meeting or assessment.
- Tuition and information about financial assistance.
10. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor
Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor offers a Waldorf-inspired educational approach. Its programmes include academic subjects alongside creative, artistic, and practical learning experiences.
Families interested in this approach should ask how the curriculum develops academic skills, creativity, independence, and social development across the different grade levels.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Previous school records, if applicable.
- Parent and student meetings.
- Any required classroom visit or assessment.
- Age and grade-placement documentation.
- Tuition and registration fees.
11. Summers-Knoll School
Summers-Knoll School is an independent school in Ann Arbor serving children from preschool through Grade 8. It is an option for families exploring private education during early childhood, elementary school, and middle school.
Parents should investigate its teaching approach, curriculum, classroom environment, and arrangements for students moving on to high school.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application and registration forms.
- Proof of the child’s age.
- Previous school reports, where applicable.
- Student visit or assessment, if required.
- Parent meeting or interview.
- Tuition and other applicable fees.
12. Daycroft School
Daycroft School is a private school in Ann Arbor serving children through the elementary years. Families considering the school should ask about its current grade offerings, curriculum, teaching methods, and preparation for middle school.
Its early and elementary programmes may be relevant to parents looking for a private educational setting before secondary school.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Application and enrolment forms.
- Proof of age.
- Previous academic records, if applicable.
- Classroom visit or readiness assessment, if required.
- Parent meeting.
- Tuition and registration fees.
13. Christian Montessori School of Ann Arbor
Christian Montessori School of Ann Arbor combines Montessori educational principles with a Christian perspective. It serves young children through the elementary years.
Montessori education generally encourages independence, hands-on learning, concentration, and practical skills. Parents should ask how these principles are incorporated into the school’s daily programme.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Child’s age and grade-placement information.
- Previous educational records, where applicable.
- Classroom observation or readiness assessment, if required.
- Parent meeting and discussion of the school’s Christian approach.
- Tuition and registration fees.
14. Doughty Montessori School
Doughty Montessori School is an Ann Arbor Montessori option for young children. Families exploring early-childhood education may wish to ask about its programme structure, classroom materials, and approach to supporting children’s independence.
Parents should confirm the age groups currently served and whether the school offers the particular programme their child needs.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Application and registration documents.
- Proof of age.
- Any required classroom observation or introductory visit.
- Parent meeting, if applicable.
- Health documentation, where required.
- Tuition and other fees.
15. Ivybrook Academy Ann Arbor
Ivybrook Academy Ann Arbor offers early-childhood education and describes its curriculum as drawing inspiration from Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and the theory of multiple intelligences.
Its preschool and transitional-kindergarten programmes may interest parents looking for an early-learning environment that incorporates creativity, exploration, and developmental activities.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed enrolment application.
- Child’s age and programme eligibility.
- Any required family meeting or school visit.
- Health and immunization records, where required.
- Programme and schedule selection.
- Tuition, registration fees, and payment arrangements.
16. Ann Arbor Children’s House
Ann Arbor Children’s House is a Montessori school for young children. Parents interested in Montessori education can investigate its classroom environment, daily routines, age groups, and approach to early learning.
Before applying, families should confirm current enrolment availability and the school’s transition arrangements for children entering kindergarten or elementary school.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application and registration forms.
- Proof of age.
- Any required classroom observation or introductory visit.
- Parent discussion about the Montessori approach.
- Health documentation, where applicable.
- Tuition and fees.
17. Green House Montessori School
Green House Montessori School is an Ann Arbor-area early-childhood education option. Families considering the school should ask about its Montessori approach, current age groups, classroom arrangements, and daily schedule.
Parents should also confirm whether the school offers the programme and hours needed by their family.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Child’s age and programme eligibility.
- Parent meeting or school visit, if required.
- Health and immunization records, where applicable.
- Information about classroom routines and expectations.
- Tuition and registration fees.
18. Oak Trails Montessori School
Oak Trails Montessori School is another Montessori option listed in the Ann Arbor area. It may be worth investigating for parents seeking early-childhood education that encourages independence and hands-on learning.
Families should verify its current operating status, age range, available places, and programme details before beginning an application.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Application and registration documents.
- Proof of age.
- Any required observation or readiness assessment.
- Parent meeting, if applicable.
- Health records and other required documents.
- Tuition and payment policies.
19. Veritas Christi Catholic High School
Veritas Christi Catholic High School is a Catholic secondary-school option in Ann Arbor. Families considering Catholic high school education should investigate its current academic programme, religious instruction, grade offerings, and preparation for postsecondary education.
Parents should contact the school to confirm current enrolment arrangements and the grades for which applications are being accepted.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed application.
- Previous school transcripts.
- Student age and grade-placement information.
- Entrance assessment or interview, if required.
- Information about religious instruction and school expectations.
- Tuition, fees, and financial assistance.
20. Arbor Valley Academy
Arbor Valley Academy is located in Ypsilanti, near Ann Arbor, and is included as an option for families willing to consider schools outside Ann Arbor city limits.
It serves secondary-school students, making it relevant to families looking for a middle-school or high-school setting. Parents should ask about the curriculum, student support, extracurricular opportunities, and admission process.
Admission requirements to investigate:
- Completed admission application.
- Previous school records and transcripts.
- Student and parent meeting, if required.
- Any required placement assessment.
- Grade eligibility and programme availability.
- Tuition, fees, and payment arrangements.
General Admission Requirements for Private Schools in Ann Arbor
Although admission policies vary from one school to another, families should be prepared for several common requirements.
1. Completed Application Form
Most schools require an application containing information about the student, family contact details, previous education, and requested grade level.
Some schools accept online applications, while others may provide forms through their admissions offices.
2. Academic Records and Transcripts
Students transferring from another school may need to provide report cards, transcripts, progress reports, or other academic documents.
These records help schools understand the student’s educational background and determine appropriate grade placement.
3. Proof of Age and Identity
Schools may request a birth certificate, passport, or another acceptable document to verify the child’s identity and age.
Parents should confirm which documents are accepted and whether originals or copies are required.
4. Entrance Assessments
Some private schools use entrance examinations, readiness assessments, classroom observations, or other evaluations.
The format depends on the student’s age and the school’s educational approach. An early-childhood readiness assessment, for example, may differ from a secondary-school entrance examination.
5. Interviews and School Visits
Certain schools may invite parents and students to participate in interviews, introductory meetings, open houses, or classroom visits.
These opportunities allow families to learn about the school’s expectations and help the institution understand the student’s educational needs.
6. Teacher Recommendations
Some schools request recommendations from teachers or school officials, particularly for students applying to middle school or high school.
Parents should ask whether recommendations are compulsory and whether the school provides a specific form.
7. Health and Immunization Records
Schools may request health information and immunization documentation, subject to applicable requirements and exemptions.
Families should obtain the school’s current list of required health documents before enrolment.
8. Tuition and Registration Fees
Private schools generally charge tuition, with costs varying by institution, grade, and programme.
Parents should request a complete fee schedule covering tuition, registration, books, uniforms, transportation, meals, technology, and other applicable expenses.
They should also ask about scholarships, financial aid, sibling discounts, and instalment plans.
Comparison Table of Private Schools in Ann Arbor
| No. | School | Location | Grade range or programme | Educational approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenhills School | Ann Arbor | Grades 6–12; verify current expansion | Independent, college preparatory |
| 2 | Father Gabriel Richard High School | Ann Arbor | Grades 9–12 | Catholic education |
| 3 | St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 8 | Catholic education |
| 4 | Emerson School | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 8 | Independent, specialised academic programme |
| 5 | Clonlara School | Ann Arbor | Kindergarten–Grade 12 | Individualised learning |
| 6 | Ann Arbor Academy | Ann Arbor | Grades vary; confirm current range | Multisensory, student-focused learning |
| 7 | Ann Arbor Christian School | Ann Arbor | Preschool–middle school; confirm high-school provision | Christian education |
| 8 | Michigan Islamic Academy | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 12 | Islamic education |
| 9 | St. Paul School of Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 8 | Lutheran Christian education |
| 10 | Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 12 across programmes | Waldorf-inspired education |
| 11 | Summers-Knoll School | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 8 | Independent education |
| 12 | Daycroft School | Ann Arbor | Preschool–elementary; verify current range | Private elementary education |
| 13 | Christian Montessori School of Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor | Preschool–Grade 5 | Christian Montessori |
| 14 | Doughty Montessori School | Ann Arbor | Early childhood | Montessori education |
| 15 | Ivybrook Academy Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor | Early childhood | Montessori- and Reggio Emilia-inspired |
| 16 | Ann Arbor Children’s House | Ann Arbor | Preschool–kindergarten | Montessori education |
| 17 | Green House Montessori School | Ann Arbor | Early childhood; verify current range | Montessori education |
| 18 | Oak Trails Montessori School | Ann Arbor | Early childhood; verify current range | Montessori education |
| 19 | Veritas Christi Catholic High School | Ann Arbor | Grades 9–12; verify current details | Catholic education |
| 20 | Arbor Valley Academy | Ypsilanti | Grades 6–12 | Private secondary education |
Grade ranges and programme details should be verified with the schools. The list includes early-childhood institutions and a nearby Ypsilanti school, so not every option is a conventional K–12 school located within Ann Arbor itself.
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Conclusion
Ann Arbor and its surrounding communities offer a variety of private educational options for families with different academic goals, learning preferences, and values. These include independent college-preparatory schools, faith-based institutions, Montessori programmes, and schools with specialised approaches to student learning.
Before choosing a school, parents should consider the child’s age, learning needs, preferred educational environment, location, tuition budget, and long-term academic plans.
It is also important to contact schools directly to confirm their current operating status, grade offerings, application deadlines, entrance assessments, tuition fees, and available places.
By comparing these factors carefully, families can identify schools worth visiting and make a more informed decision about their children’s education.
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