guides

Merrimack Valley Guide to Private Schools

May 30, 2025

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make—and the Merrimack Valley offers a wide range of private school options to support every learner’s path. Whether you're seeking a faith-based education, Montessori philosophy, college-preparatory rigor, or personalized instruction for unique learning styles, there’s a school nearby that fits your needs. This private school guide highlights top institutions in Andover, North Andover, Methuen, Haverhill, Lawrence, Groveland, Georgetown, and Middleton—helping families navigate educational opportunities across the region. From early childhood programs to high school academies, explore what each school has to offer and find the right environment where your child can thrive.


Andover, MA

  • Phillips Academy Andover: A renowned coeducational boarding and day school for grades 9–12, known for its rigorous academics and historic campus. 
  • The Pike School: An independent day school serving Pre-K through Grade 9, emphasizing a student-centered approach. 
  • Andover School of Montessori: Offers programs for preschool through middle school, focusing on Montessori principles to foster independence and curiosity. 
  • St. Augustine School: A Catholic school providing education from Pre-K through Grade 8, integrating faith with academic excellence. 

North Andover, MA

  • Brooks School: A coeducational boarding and day school for grades 9–12, offering a challenging curriculum and a strong sense of community. 
  • Saint Michael School: Provides a Catholic education for Nursery through Grade 8, emphasizing moral development and academic achievement. 
  • Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School: A Catholic college-preparatory high school for grades 9–12, combining rigorous academics with a corporate work-study program. 
  • St. Monica School: Offers a faith-based education for students from 3 years old through 8th grade, focusing on a strong academic foundation. 
  • Islamic Academy for Peace: Provides education from Pre-K through Grade 8, integrating Islamic values with academic excellence. 

Haverhill, MA

  • Bradford Christian Academy: An independent Christian school serving grades K–12, blending college preparatory academics with Christian values. 
  • Sacred Hearts School: A Catholic school committed to teaching and living Catholic values, striving for academic excellence. 
  • Hill View Montessori Charter Public School: A tuition-free public charter school serving grades K–8, implementing Montessori methods. 
  • Hilltop School at West Church: Offers early childhood education, including Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten programs.

Lawrence, MA

  • Central Catholic High School: A college-preparatory Catholic high school for grades 9–12, fostering academic excellence and faith development. 
  • Lawrence Catholic Academy: Provides a Catholic education for students from Pre-K through Grade 8, focusing on spiritual and academic growth. 
  • Esperanza Academy: A tuition-free independent school for girls in grades 5–8, emphasizing academic excellence and social justice. 

Groveland, MA

  • The Hedge School: An independent school serving grades 4–8, focusing on personalized education to meet individual student needs. 

Georgetown, MA

  • Clark School: Located in nearby Rowley, this independent school serves students from Preschool through Grade 12, accommodating diverse learning styles. 
  • The Governor’s Academy: Situated in Byfield, this boarding and day school for grades 9–12 offers a rigorous academic program and a commitment to character development. 

Middleton, MA

  • The Goddard School of Middleton: Provides early childhood education with a focus on nurturing and developmentally appropriate learning. 
  • Meritor Academy: Offers a private elementary education, emphasizing a positive culture to help all students thrive.

Created with some assistance from AI.