For the 2026 school year, there are 3 private schools serving 935 students in 21221, MD (there are 13 public schools, serving 9,045 public students). 9% of all K-12 students in 21221, MD are educated in private schools (compared to the MD state average of 14%).
The top-ranked private schools in 21221, MD include Our Lady Of Mt Carmel School and Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Elementary School.
The average acceptance rate is 85%, which is higher than the Maryland private school average acceptance rate of 80%.
100% of private schools in 21221, MD are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and African Methodist Episcopal).
Top-Ranked 21221 Maryland Private Schools (2026)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Our Lady Of Mt Carmel School
(Catholic)
1706 Old Eastern Avenue
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 686-1023
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 686-1023
Gr: PK-12 | 476 students Avg. class size: 16 students Sports: 11 | Extracurrculars: 4 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Elementary School![Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Elementary School Photo - Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Elementary School Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Elementary School Photo - Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Elementary School]()

(Catholic)
1702 Old Eastern Ave
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 686-0859
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 686-0859
Gr: NS-9 | 368 students Avg. class size: 19 students Sports: 9 Tuition listed
St. Stephens Christian Academy
(African Methodist Episcopal)
1525 Old Eastern Ave
Essex, MD 21221
(443) 772-3447
Essex, MD 21221
(443) 772-3447
Gr: K-4 | 91 students Tuition listed
21221, Maryland Private Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
St. Clare School (Closed 2010)
(Catholic)
716 Myrth Ave
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 687-7787
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 687-7787
Gr: K-9 | 180 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked private schools in 21221, MD?
The top-ranked private schools in 21221, MD include Our Lady Of Mt Carmel School and Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Elementary School.
How many private schools are located in 21221?
3 private schools are located in 21221.
What percentage of students in 21221 go to private school?
9% of all K-12 students in 21221 are educated in private schools (compared to the MD state average of 14%).
What percentage of private schools are religiously affiliated in 21221?
100% of private schools in 21221 are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and African Methodist Episcopal).
Recent Articles
Navigating Private School Finances 2026
Essential 2026 guide for parents on private school costs, financial aid, and planning strategies.
Preparation for Standardized Tests & College Admissions 2026
A 2026 guide for private school test prep and college admissions strategies, with insights, trends, and best practices for families and educators.
Mental Health & Wellness Support in Private Schools: Key Questions for Parents
Discover essential questions about mental health & wellness support in private schools before enrolling, with 2026 updates for informed decisions.


