As families in Montgomery strive to provide their children with the best educational opportunities, the demand for private schools continues to rise, reflecting a broader trend toward school choice across the nation. The options available to local families are expanding, ranging from traditional religious organizations to specialized schools emphasizing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), arts or Montessori education. These private schools offer an alternative to the public school system, providing personalized learning approaches, smaller class sizes and tailored curricula designed to align with the unique values and needs of students and their families.
The Growing Appeal of Private Schools
Montgomery’s private schools offer a rich and diverse array of options, meeting the academic, social and extracurricular needs of students across the community. Families are often drawn to these schools for their commitment to individualized education, made possible by smaller class sizes and lower teacher-to-student ratios. With a strong focus on academic excellence, many private schools provide specialized programs in areas like arts, athletics and STEM—fields that are increasingly vital in today’s economy.
Faith-based schools are foundational to Montgomery’s private education landscape, blending rigorous academics with spiritual development. These schools foster a sense of community among families and instill moral values alongside traditional academic skills, creating a holistic educational experience rooted in shared beliefs.
Montessori schools, known for their emphasis on self-directed and experiential learning, offer an alternative to conventional education. These programs nurture children’s natural curiosity and encourage independence, appealing to parents who prioritize personalized and hands-on approaches. Additionally, families seeking tailored support for children with learning differences can find private schools dedicated to providing specialized instruction, ensuring that every student has the tools they need to thrive academically.
Private School Growth and Opportunities
The heightened focus on private schools is closely tied to the state’s growing support for school choice, offering families more tailored educational opportunities. The increase in private school enrollment, alongside the growing number of diverse options, demonstrates how the education system is evolving. For many, the increased options mean better access to educational models that match their child’s unique needs and aspirations.
Legislative initiatives like the Choose Act highlight this shift toward greater educational choice, giving families the ability to select the learning environment that best meets their child’s needs. Whether it’s a traditional academic program, faith-based education or a specialized curriculum, the educational landscape is becoming increasingly inclusive. For parents, these expanded options represent more than just a school—they offer a pathway to their child’s success, growth and future.
SIDEBAR: The New Choose Act Alabama: Tax Credits for School Choice
A major development for Alabama families and the state’s educational landscape is the introduction of the Choose Act Alabama, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey on March 7, 2024. This new statewide initiative provides refundable income tax credits—called Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)—to help families with the cost of private school tuition and other qualified educational expenses. The goal is to offer financial support to families who wish to send their children to participating private schools or engage in home education programs.
Key Benefits of the Choose Act Alabama:
- $7,000 per student for tuition, fees and eligible educational expenses at participating private schools.
- $2,000 per student for those enrolled in home education programs, with a maximum of $4,000 per family.
- Accessibility: The initiative opens up greater opportunities for families who may have been financially unable to consider private education as an option.
The application process for the 2025-2026 school year opened on January 2, 2025, and families can learn more about this groundbreaking opportunity by visiting the official website at chooseact.alabama.gov.
For many families, the Choose Act will significantly reduce the financial burden of private schooling, making it a more affordable option and leveling the playing field for access to high-quality education. This initiative further supports the state’s commitment to expanding educational options and providing families with the flexibility to choose the best environment for their children’s academic and personal growth.
Get an inside look at some of our local private schools each with their own strengths and unique opportunities for students:
Montgomery Academy:
The Montgomery Academy’s mission is to develop leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence. MA is a vibrant community of learning that cultivates academic, artistic and athletic excellence. The Montgomery Academy serves K-12 students in the River Region on its two campuses located on Perry Hill Road for Lower School, grades K-4, and Vaughn Road for Middle School and Upper School, grades 5-12.
Q&A with John McWilliams, Head of School, The Montgomery Academy.
Saint James School, the oldest independent school in the River Region, is dedicated to educating the whole child by challenging and supporting college-bound students to realize their potential and prepare for lives of responsibility, service and achievement. Guided by core values of character, commitment, courage and community, Saint James fosters a close-knit, family-like environment where students, parents, faculty and staff build strong relationships. This values-driven community creates a personalized educational experience, ensuring each student feels valued and supported in their academic and personal growth.
Q&A with Dr. Larry McLemore, Head of School, Saint James School
Macon East Academy:
Macon East Academy is a private Christian school dedicated to fostering a safe, nurturing environment where students thrive academically while embracing Christian values, patriotism and a strong belief in God. We proudly offer an exceptional education for students in grades K3-12 at an affordable tuition rate. Serving the Pike Road, Montgomery, River Region and surrounding communities, Macon East provides a supportive and faith-centered foundation for student success.
Q&A with Coach Glynn Lott, Headmaster, Macon East Academy
Montgomery Christian School
Montgomery Christian School is dedicated to glorifying God through its mission of delivering an academically challenging education within a Christ-centered environment, specifically serving families with limited school choice. Rooted in a vision to partner with parents, the school strives to cultivate academic excellence, social and emotional growth and spiritual maturity in every student. By nurturing these qualities, Montgomery Christian School equips students to embrace God’s purpose for their lives, making meaningful contributions to their families, churches and communities while fostering personal growth guided by faith.
Q&A with Pamela McLemore, Executive Director, Montgomery Christian School
Prattville Christian Academy
Prattville Christian Academy (PCA) is a K2-12 private, independently incorporated organization that provides academic excellence in a caring Christian environment. PCA is a non-denominational school, not under the direction of any church, and is led by an independent board of Christian directors. All faculty and staff members at PCA are active Christians in their churches. PCA’s mission is to advance God’s Kingdom by providing an education that prepares hearts and minds to follow Christ.
Q&A with Katie Furr, Head of School, Prattville Christian Academy
