Macon’s private school community represents one of the most robust alternatives to public education in Middle Georgia, with 15 private schools serving approximately 4,590 students across Bibb County. Sixteen percent of Macon’s K-12 students attend private schools — nearly double the Georgia state average of nine percent — reflecting both the strength of Macon’s private school offerings and the confidence parents place in them. The city’s private schools range from rigorous college-preparatory independent schools with extensive Advanced Placement programs to faith-integrated Christian academies, Montessori programs for early learners, and schools serving students with specialized educational needs. Macon’s top private schools consistently produce National Merit Scholars, Division I college athletes, and graduates admitted to the nation’s most selective universities. Whether you prioritize academic rigor, faith integration, small class sizes, or athletics, Macon’s private school options deliver.


1. Stratford Academy

  • Address: 6010 Peake Rd, Macon, GA 31220
  • Phone: (478) 477-8073
  • Website: https://www.stratford.org
  • Hours: Administrative office Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Services: College-preparatory education PK–12, 20+ AP courses, athletics, fine arts, NAIS member, SACS accredited
  • About: Founded in 1960, Stratford Academy is Macon’s premier independent college-preparatory school and Georgia’s top-ranked private school in its category. With 706 students in grades PK-12, a 5:1 student-teacher ratio, and access to over 20 AP courses, Stratford produces students of exceptional academic achievement — 27 National Merit Semifinalists since 1999. The school’s core values of excellence, integrity, freedom, responsibility, and community form the foundation of a whole-student educational philosophy.

2. First Presbyterian Day School (FPD)

  • Address: 5671 Calvin Dr, Macon, GA 31210
  • Phone: (478) 477-6505
  • Website: https://www.fpdmacon.org
  • Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM | Administrative office Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Services: Christ-centered education grades 3K–12, athletics, fine arts, National Blue Ribbon School (elementary), college prep
  • About: First Presbyterian Day School exists to educate and equip students to change the world for God’s glory, providing a relationship-focused, academically strong, Christ-centered education. Their elementary program has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School, and the upper school has been recognized as an exemplary Christian secondary program. FPD’s athletic program has been ranked the top private school athletic program in Middle Georgia for three consecutive years.


3. St. Joseph’s Catholic School – Private Catholic School in Macon

  • Address: Macon, GA
  • Phone: (478) 742-0636
  • Website: sjsmacon.org
  • Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM | Administrative office Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Services: Catholic private school education, faith-based curriculum, academics, student life, athletics, admissions open to all families
  • About: St. Joseph’s Catholic School is a private Catholic school in Macon offering faith-integrated education in a close-knit community environment. Rooted in Catholic values and academic excellence, SJS serves Macon-area families seeking a faith-based private school experience. Admissions inquiries can be directed to admissions@sjsmacon.org or by calling (478) 742-0636.

When evaluating Macon’s private schools, visiting each campus in person during a school day provides invaluable insight into the culture, pace, and community that a brochure or website cannot capture. Most Macon private schools offer Open House events and shadow days for prospective students, which allow families to experience daily school life before making enrollment decisions. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities vary significantly between schools — inquire directly with each school’s admissions office about available assistance, as many Macon private schools are committed to making their education accessible to qualified students regardless of financial circumstances. Application deadlines for the following school year typically fall in January and February, so beginning the research process in the fall is strongly recommended.