Rachel Pollock is an English and Social Studies instructor at Brightmont Academy, a freelance writer, and a Chapter Advisor for Future Business Leaders of America. She holds a master’s degree in Psychology from American Military University and graduated with honors for research in social-emotional learning (SEL) in K–12 schools. With over six years of classroom experience working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) students, Rachel is committed to elevating student voices through creativity, academic rigor, and authentic expression.
Best Private Schools in Detroit and How They Fit Your Needs
Rachel Pollock • June 24, 2026
Established Detroiter or considering moving to the Detroit area and researching private schools? You want a quality education for your child. Your child has learning differences or scheduling needs that require fewer days or hours than traditional schools. The best private schools in Metro Detroit meet your child’s needs, create a custom curriculum for your child, and are accredited.
If you have been researching
private schools in the Detroit area, you likely have found Brightmont Academy, Cranbrook Schools, Detroit Country Day, The Roeper School, Greenhills School, and Notre Dame Prep, et al., topping the lists. Each school offers something unique to its students and is held in high regard within its community.
FAQs About Private Schools in Detroit
What is the best private school in Detroit for students with learning differences?
Brightmont Academy and Eton Academy are at the top of the list of Detroit private schools for students with learning differences.
Are there private schools near Detroit that offer personalized learning?
Yes! Personalized learning schools near Detroit include:
Brightmont Academy
Location(s): Birmingham, MI, and Northville, MI
Student to Teacher Ratio: One-to-one
Accreditation: Cognia Global accreditation and regional accreditation
NCAA approved, AP College Board Approval
Approach: Mastery-Based
Grades: K-12
Schedule: Custom to your needs and flexible; year-round available, Monday through Friday available, 8:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. available
Detroit-area Campuses: Locations in Northville and Birmingham
Amped Hybrid Academy
Location: Farmington Hills, MI
Student to Teacher Ratio: 6:1
Accreditation: Middle States Association
Approach: Project-Based Learning
Grades: K-9
Schedule: 2-3 day cohorts on campus alternating independent study days; August/September through June 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Eton Academy
Location: Birmingham, MI
Student to Teacher Ratio: No more than 10 students per class
Accreditation: NCA and ISACS
Approach: ETON Approach
Grades: K-12
Schedule: August/September through June 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
Aim High School
Location: Farmington Hills, MI
Student to Teacher Ratio: 10 student classroom with 5:1 ratio
Accreditation: Michigan Merit Curriculum
Approach: General Education Program and Applied Studies Program
Grades: 6-12
Schedule: Monday through Friday, August/September through June, drop off as early as 7:45 a.m.- 3:45 p.m., pick up
How do I choose the right private school for my child?
When contemplating the right private school for your child, take into account whether or not your child will be seen clearly. When there is focus on your child, their needs are met.
Your child’s age or grade level is another determining factor when choosing a private school. Bear in mind learning differences, curriculum, and the focus that will appropriately challenge your child at private schools in the Detroit area.
Culture. Equitable. Inclusive. This is where private schools shine!
Forward thinking and goal setting can help you determine what your child needs from a private school. Questions to ask about accreditation: Does your child plan to attend college? Play in club sports and plan to play college sports? Will we be moving out of the region before graduation and need to transfer credits? Will your child work in the family business? Will your child go on to vocational school? These guiding questions can help you decide what will best meet your child’s needs and help them accomplish their goals.
When making a decision about
which private school is best for your child, location is an important factor. If you have children at multiple schools or a long commute, you may need flexible scheduling or before and after-school care.
Detroit area private schools are quality schools that meet your child’s needs through family inclusion, effective and relevant engagement and learning, and supportive environments.
Meet the Author
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