With another school year upon us and children back in the classroom, it’s time for Orlando Family Magazine to take a closer look at how some of the region’s leading private high schools are preparing students for academic success. We worked directly with the schools to obtain key information in areas like average SAT scores, tuition rates, student-to-teacher ratios and more. We also spoke with numerous school officials to find out more about the benefits of private education and get the answers to questions parents of prospective students should be asking.

Private Discussion

Is a private education right for your child? Here are the questions you should be asking.

Making the choice to send your child to private school is not made easily. It requires parents to do some homework in order to find out which learning environment may be the best suited for their son or daughter. It also helps to ask the right questions, which is why we reached out to several private schools in the area to find out more about the factors that can assist families with making an informed decision.

How can financial aid help those who see tuition as a major roadblock?

“Financial aid at Trinity Prep makes its college-prep education more accessible to families. One in four students receives needs-based aid, with around $2.9 million awarded annually, averaging $12,550 per student. The class of 2025 consisted of 119 graduates, earning $19 million in scholarships/aid for higher education, making the return on investment of Trinity Prep exceedingly high.”
–Denise Turner, director of admissions and financial aid, Trinity Preparatory School

Why it important for a school to be accredited?

“Accreditation ensures that a school meets the highest standards of academic quality, operational excellence, and student care. It provides families with confidence that their children are receiving a well-rounded education that is both rigorous and, for The First Academy (TFA), Christ-centered. TFA is proud to be accredited by Cognia, the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS), the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), the Council on Educational Standards & Accountability (CESA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI – Exemplary Accreditation). We are the only school in Central Florida to hold all of these accreditations, a distinction that reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence.”
—Jennifer Jackson, assistant head of school for PK-12 programs and parent relations, The First Academy

Why are service projects an important part of the private high school experience?

“Service projects for all students increase empathy and compassion for others. Knowledge of a need and actually helping to fill the need are different. Active service instill an internal desire in the students to help care for the common good. Internal motivation fuels additional giving of their time, talent and treasure far longer than simply a cognitive recognition of needs. And service to benefit others adjusts a student’s perspective—from one of self-focus to one of others-centered, from one of grumbling to one of gratitude.”
–Katie Deatherage, director of advancement, The Geneva School

How do you advise parents do their homework to see which private high school is right for their child?

“The admissions process should treat all applicants with respect, recognizing their individual worth and the importance of the decision for students and families. Just like the school seeks to ensure an appropriate match with attracting families and students who are aligned with the school’s mission, it is important for the families to be encouraged to align their family values with the culture of the school. The school operates under a clear and consistent set of practices for gathering, disseminating, and maintaining prospective student information, and respects the confidentiality of students, families, and documents in the admissions process. Schools will ensure that the admissions process and/or official transcript have provided sufficient formal documentation of an appropriate match before offering admission to a student. The admissions process should be transparent, with clear communication about procedures, timelines, expectations (including financial aid), and enrollment decisions.”
–David Bernatavitz, assistant head of school and dean of the upper school, Montverde Academy

How does the curriculum diversity offered at a private high school help broaden a student’s horizons?

“A diverse curriculum broadens students’ horizons by exposing them to new ideas, skills and opportunities. At Foundation Academy, this equips students to discover their passions, think critically and prepare for success in college and beyond.”
–Joseph Cioffi, marketing director, Foundation Academy

How does a smaller class size benefit students?

“At Bishop Moore Catholic, our 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio allows us to create a learning environment where every student is known, supported, and challenged. Smaller class sizes mean teachers can give more individualized attention, adapt instruction to different learning styles, and build meaningful relationships with students. This fosters greater participation, collaboration, and accountability in the classroom. Smaller class sizes help us ensure that each Hornet is not just prepared for college, but also formed as a person of purpose and faith.”
–Sarah Luter, director of communications, office of advancement, Bishop Moore Catholic High School

If thinking about private school, how important is it to start the application process early?

“Starting early is key. An early start gives families time to thoughtfully prepare application materials, schedule entrance assessments and explore campus life without feeling rushed. It also ensures that parents and students have the space to ask questions and engage fully with the admissions team. The earlier you begin, the more options you’ll have and the more confident you’ll feel in making the right decision for your child. At Windermere Prep, enrollment demand has been strong, with full capacity in recent years and many families placed in the wait pool. Beginning the process early gives your child the best opportunity to secure a place before spaces fill.”
–Angel Nguyen, director of marketing, admissions and communication, Windermere Preparatory School

Would you recommend having a prospective student spend time with current students to get a true feel for campus life?

“A shadow day or coming for a campus event is one of the most important parts of the process. A student needs to envision themselves as part of the student body, and on-campus experiences are a great opportunity to make friends while truly getting to know the culture of a school. I would also recommend that prospective parents come for these opportunities so they can get the true feel of the school community.”
–Kristina Vuong, director of admissions, Lake Mary Preparatory School

“Having prospective students spend time with current students is one of the most authentic ways to experience campus life. At Lake Highland Preparatory School, we offer opportunities, such as PreK and kindergarten playdates, as well as visitation days in other grades, which immerse prospective students in real classrooms and peer interactions. Beyond these events, we extend this opportunity to every new student by pairing them with a dedicated student ambassador. These student ambassadors serve as friendly guides and connections to the community, helping new Highlanders feel welcome, build friendships and navigate campus life with confidence from their very first day.”
–Lori Moore, director of enrollment management, Lake Highland Preparatory School

Student Success’

School Information

*Increase for Grade 12
**Increase for Non-Catholic students