Springdale Prep is Recognized Among 2026 Best Schools in America
Springdale Preparatory School is proud to announce it has been nationally recognized as one of the Best Schools in America by Niche, the country’s leading college and school search platform. Niche has ranked SPS as the best private high school in Carroll County, Md., and the 16th best private high school in the state.
This prestigious ranking reflects SPS’s exceptional performance across numerous factors analyzed by Niche including academic performance, extracurricular activity opportunities, data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and user input from current students, alumni and parents.
The recognition by Niche underscores Springdale Prep’s commitment to providing a rigorous and well-rounded educational experience. The school achieved high marks in categories critical to student success, notably Academics, College Prep, and Clubs & Activities.
Springdale Prep serves approximately 200 middle and high school students from the surrounding area and around the world, creating a diverse and globally-minded campus community. The school emphasizes individualized learning through small classes and an impressive 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring every student receives focused attention and support tailored to their specific needs and goals.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from Niche,” said Dr. Gerald Boarman, Head of School at Springdale Prep. “This achievement is a direct result of the tireless dedication of our faculty and staff, the hard work of our students, and the strong support of our entire community. It validates our mission to foster an environment where students can thrive academically, personally and socially.”
Niche Ranking Highlights
Springdale Prep’s high rankings were based on a comprehensive analysis of key data points, positioning the school as a top educational institution in Maryland:
#1 Best Private High School in Carroll County
#16 Best Private High School in Maryland
A+ Overall Niche Grade
The rankings highlight the quality of the school’s college-preparatory curriculum and the variety of engaging extracurricular options available to students, ensuring a holistic education that prepares graduates for success in higher education and beyond.
About Springdale Prep (SPS)
Springdale Prep is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school located in Carroll County, Maryland, serving students in grades 6-12. With a strong focus on small class sizes and a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, SPS offers a challenging academic program, competitive athletics and diverse arts programs, all designed to prepare students for the demands of a global society.
The Winter Play Tickets Now on Sale!
Join the Springdale Players as they perform the classic play, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” adapted for the stage by James W. Rodgers. “It’s a Wonderful Life” is based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern. This production is presented with the permission of The Greatest Gift Corporation, produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois.
Performances are Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, at 7:00 p.m. The show is approximately 90 minutes with a 10-minute intermission. The show takes place in the cafetorium at Springdale Preparatory School in New Windsor, Maryland. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for senior citizens (65+) and children under 18. Christmas cookies, and other light refreshments will be available for purchase before the show and during intermission. Join us as we get into the Christmas spirit and ring in the start of the holiday season together!
Due to the popularity of the Springdale Players’ shows, tickets sell out early, so don’t wait!
Purchase tickets here:



