Getting a good education is critical to success in life. Fortunately, for Harford County residents, education options are abundant, from an outstanding public school system to university preparation and professional training.

Our readers praised the county’s high schools, but when it came to selecting their favorite private school, they had a clear preference. The John Carroll School in Bel Air was our winner, and its supporters were very articulate about their choice.

“Not only do they emphasize a strong value system, they also welcome all students regardless of race or creed, making it a very diversified student body,” says Joan Larney of Abingdon, a John Carroll parent who wrote to us about the school. “Because all students accepted must pass an entrance exam to enter they can maintain an excellent academic program for all to achieve. They also maintain a strong discipline program and therefore the teachers are able to teach with very little discipline issues in the classroom.”

John Carroll is an independent Catholic college-prep high school. Religious affiliation is not a requirement to attend, however an application and completion of the High School Placement Test are. Once admitted, students are required to wear uniforms and participate in a wide variety of academic, artistic and athletic pursuits.

The student body is small – only 850 students attend John Carroll in the current academic year – allowing faculty to really get to know every student’s strengths and to help them reach their full potential. The goal is to create well-rounded students who are prepared to continue their education at the college level. Given the success of John Carroll graduates, they certainly succeed in meeting that goal.

The John Carroll School,
703 Churchville Road, Bel Air, 410-879-2480 | www.johncarroll.org