There is no better way to kick off the holiday season than with a family stroll through Rochester’s festiveKris Kringle Market. This beloved annual tradition transforms downtown into a winter wonderland, filled with lights, live music and plenty of kid-friendly activities to explore.
The 2025 Kris Kringle Market will run for two fun-filled days, from 4-10 p.m. Dec. 5 and noon-10 p.m. Dec. 6at W. Fourth and Walnut Boulevard.
Photo courtesy of Rochester Downtown Development Authority
Can’t-miss fun for the kids
For memories that will last all holiday season, take your kids to see the heart of Santa’s Village. Families can visit Santa throughout the weekend, with Santa greeting children from 4-9 p.m. Friday and noon-9 p.m. Saturday. In addition, Santa Story Time takes place at 6 p.m. Friday and at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday.
While exploring the village, children can enjoy marshmallow roasting, hot chocolate and toy sales from the Rochester Lions Club, a lineup perfect for staying warm and entertained.
From there, families can head to the Roxy Musical Entertainment Stage to enjoy live performances throughout both days of the market. Guests can look forward to everything from classic carols to upbeat Christmas covers with local choirs, musicians and bands taking the stage all weekend long. The full entertainment schedule is included below:
Friday, Dec. 5
4-5 p.m.: Meadow Brook Carolers
7-9 p.m.: The Ben Sharkey Band
Saturday, Dec. 6
Noon-1 p.m.: Alleluia Bell Ringers
1:30-2:30 p.m.: Sarah Karras Music
7-9 p.m.: Paul & Oates
Shops you won’t want to miss
Beyond the entertainment, the market’s shopping scene has something perfect for every holiday wish list. With more than 60 vendors spread throughout the event, families can shop everything from handmade gifts to festive foods. Kid-friendly highlights include:
Photo courtesy of Rochester Downtown Development Authority
Tips and tricks
To make the most of your visit, a little planning can go a long way—especially on busy holiday weekends.
Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Bundle up to stay warm during this entirely outdoor event.
For those with little ones, strollers can help keep kids comfortable and provide extra room for shopping bags and gifts collected along your way.
Plan around the live entertainment and Santa’s appearance times so you don’t miss a thing.
Come with an appetite ready for seasonal snacks and warm cups of hot chocolate.
Why crowds keep coming back
Year after year, families return to Rochester’s Kris Kringle Market for its festive atmosphere and traditions, and the event has continued to grow. Whether it’s to visit with Santa, enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate or just enjoy the Christmas spirit, the Kris Kringle Market is a perfect place to celebrate the season with your family.
Thanksgiving brought warmth, creativity and plenty of festive spirit to classrooms across our community this year. From fall crafts to bright smiles, these photos showcase the gratitude, joy and togetherness that filled schools throughout the season. Enjoy some of our favorite reader-submitted Thanksgiving moments below.
The sixth grade feast that is celebrated each year at Wiley Elementary is a highly anticipated event. Parents bring food that represents their culture and family traditions, and the students eat a meal together.
Beacon Tree Elementary had a little help on Feelings Friday from a friendly turkey teaching them about their feelings!
Beacon Tree Elementary kindergarten students got to disguise their turkeys this week.
Schwarzkoff Elementary got crafty for their Thanksgiving celebration.
Harvey Elementary students had a lot to be grateful for this year!
The idyllic living of the Netherlands found its American home inHolland, Michigan. From tulip festivals in spring to Christmas markets in winter, this coastal Michigan town is your nearest portal to the charm of a Northern European holiday.
As your family steps foot in Holland, expect to find brick cottages, a towering wooden windmill and an incredibly welcoming community. Friendly locals and Dutch traditions combine to create an exciting new way for families to experience Christmas cheer this holiday season.
Photo credit: Downtown Holland
While Sinterklaas — the Dutch equivalent of Christmas — is the main event throughout winter in Holland, there is plenty of sledding, skating and cozy winter treats to round out your stay.
Read on for our guide to Holland’s Christmas-time attractions. Looking for even more winter wonderlands? Explore our guides to discover:
The top festiveChristmas towns around the Midwest
What’s in store at Michigan’s own “Little Bavaria” — akaFrankenmuth
The lights, markets and winter fun awaiting inGrand Rapids
Getting to Holland, Michigan
Holland lies on the shores of Lake Macatawa, on the western side of the Lower Peninsula. From Detroit, the I-96 will get you to Holland in just under three hours. Winter roads can be icy, but the drive is easily manageable with theTerrain Management Systemin Ford SUVs.
Driving three hours straight can be difficult, especially with little ones in the back seat. To keep your family entertained during the drive, try pulling over for one of these pit stops:
Photo credit: Downtown Holland
Impression 5 Science Center: This interactive kid’s museum is in Lansing, just 15 minutes off the route to Holland. Stop by for a quick brain break from the drive.
Lunch in Grand Rapids: 30 minutes out from Holland and the perfect place to stop for lunch, Grand Rapids has over 35 breweries to stop for a quick bite and brew. There are also tons ofChristmas-time attractions to check out.
Christmas celebrations in Holland
Photo credit: Downtown Holland
Starting late November, Downtown Holland is brimming with Christmas spirit. The streets transform into a picturesque display of sparkling lights and evergreen branches, signifying the beginning of the season.
Holland’sHoliday Open Houseon Nov. 22, 2025, kicks off the festivities with an evening of holiday shopping, with the sounds of carolers and smells of roasted chestnuts on every corner. The downtown shops offer special holiday deals, free gift wrapping and refreshments to keep you energized for a night of spending.
The holiday shopping continues at the outdoorDutch Kerstmarkt, an authentic European Christmas market experience stretching from Thanksgiving week to just before Christmas. Visit for goods from local artisans and European treats, and stay for the special dog sled demo and handbell performances.
Even more Christmas spirit is found in the light shows of Holland: Don’t miss Sinterklaas’s welcome at theParade of Lightsor the tulip light show at DeZwaan Windmill forMagic at the Mill.
Winter wonders beyond
Photo credit: Downtown Holland
The magic of Holland doesn’t stop at Christmas — there are plenty of other winter activities to explore around town.
TheHolland Community Ice Skating Parkrecently underwent a renovation and is projected to finish construction this fall. The park has a looping track to glide gracefully along and a nearby curling area. Other activities to try in the great outdoors are sledding and cross-country skiing atVan Raalte Farm Park.
When the Michigan chill starts to bite, there are indoor options like ice skating atGriff’s Ice House Westor laser tag and mini golf at theLost City Arcade.
To round out your visit with a taste of Dutch heritage, mark off your first stop atWindmill Island Gardensfor warm Dutch treats and other traditional sights. Finish off your experience atNelis’ Dutch Villagewith a Klompen dance lesson or a wooden shoe carving workshop.
Where to stay in Holland
Photo credit: Downtown Holland
For families looking to make a weekend (or longer) out of their stay, Holland has plenty of lodging options, ranging from nearby hotels to experiential stays.
Start atWindmill Restaurantfor a hearty breakfast paired with a side of warm staff service and a family-friendly atmosphere.Yelp reviewerscommend the homemade cinnamon rolls and the cheap kids’ meal prices.
Afterwards, venture toNew Holland Brewingfor mid-afternoon snacks for the kids and sips for the parents. The food menu has pub bites to start, and sandwiches and pizzas for later. The brewery boasts a large beer menu and a distillery selling hand-crafted spirits.
Now, your family is ready for the perfect place to find European holiday magic without leaving Michigan! Hankering for even more? Explore Michigan Christmas fun inHollandandGrand Rapids — and findthe top Midwest Christmas townsworth the trip this year.
Calling all families: here’s the chance to experience a deeply meaningful outing for your school-aged children, tweens and teens — especially important in this moment of history.
The Henry Ford opens its doors for free admission and parking for everyone in honor of the 70th anniversary of Rosa Parks’ courageous refusal to give up her seat in Montgomery in 1955.
What to expect
Date: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 1
Location: The Henry Ford, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn
Visitors will encounter the actual bus on which she made history, and the museum’s “Stories of Innovation” spaces tie in nicely — reminding us that change often starts with one act, one voice.
Why it matters for families
Living history, not just textbooks: You and your children will see a tangible artifact behind the civil-rights story, making the lesson far more real than any video or textbook could.
A discussion starter: Use the day to talk about how each of us — even young people — have power.
Build empathy and context: For kids whose schooling may have touched the civil-rights era superficially, this deepens understanding of the era and the long arc of justice.
Shared experience for you and your kids: This isn’t just dropping off the kids; you’ll be there side-by-side, starting conversations, witnessing together and creating memories anchored by purpose.
Logistics and practical tips
Entry is free, as is parking.
Arrive early to beat the crowd and give your family plenty of time to devote to the bus exhibit and surrounding civil-rights galleries.
Extend the visit: The Henry Ford has a broad collection of American innovation — consider pairing this with other exhibits to make a full afternoon.
Combine with a travel treat: If you’re bringing younger kids, extra energy burners help (the museum has spacious halls). Or plan a fun dinner in Dearborn (or on the way) to round out the day.
Why this should be on your radar
In a time when history is often distilled into sound-bites or filtered online, the museum experience gives permanence and weight. This is an opportunity to physically bring your child into the history lesson.
By showing them the bus, pointing to a single moment that triggered a movement, you help them see that they too can spark change — even in small ways.
With the holiday season comes the search for holiday gifts for everyone in the family — from kids to grandparents and even the family dog. While it’s easy to click a few buttons and purchase everything online, there’s nothing like the experience of browsing a local shop for unique finds. AndShop Local Macombhas you covered.
Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development
“Shop Local Macomb gives us the opportunity to showcase the more than 1,600 independently owned and operated businesses in the county,” says Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel.
This year’s event kicks off on Friday, Nov. 21 and continues until Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. The initiative is matters for the financial stability of the overall community, leaders say.
“Macomb County Planning & Economic Development is proud to once again launch this campaign and offer our local retailers — and local shoppers — the chance to win big,” adds Vicky Rowinski, Director of the MCPED.
What families could win during Shop Local Macomb
As part of its sponsorship, First State Bank is offering three $350 gift cards to lucky shoppers who support local stores. To enter, follow these three simple steps:
Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development
Note: Participants are only allowed one entry per store and are only allowed to win one $350 gift card. Entrants must be at least 18 years old. No purchase necessary.
In addition to entering themselves for one of the $350 gift cards, shoppers who share photos of local businesses also automatically enter the business they’re posting about into a grant of up to $5,000.
This year, Shop Local Macomb will announce three business winners, with prizes of $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000. The winners of the gift cards and the business prizes will be announced on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.
Find some unique gifts during this year’s campaign
Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development
So, this holiday season, instead of shopping at a big box store, try helping out the families in the community.
“We’re fortunate to have this incredible community of retailers and during the holiday season, we need to show them our support,” says Hackel.
“I know I’ll be purchasing some of my gifts at local small businesses this year, and I hope you’ll join me in this effort.”
This post was originally published in 2021 and has been updated for 2025 by Naomi Kayser.
With college admissions becoming increasingly competitive and global education more essential than ever, many families in the Detroit area are exploring private school options for their children.
To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best private schools in the Detroit area uses a combination of publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Census Bureau, along with community reviews, survey feedback, and academic performance indicators such as test scores and college readiness.
Read on for our guide to the top private schools in the Detroit area.
Aim High School is a private, tuition-based school for students in grades six through 12 that offers a supportive, small-scale alternative to large traditional schools. Designed for students with special social and learning needs, Aim High provides a safe, structured environment where academic focus, wellness and communication skills are nurtured.
With a college and work-ready curriculum, the school tailors learning to each student’s strengths and interests through individualized instruction and hands-on experiences. Small class sizes — averaging just eight students — allow teachers to build strong relationships with students and families, making learning highly personal and effective.
At Aim High, students aren’t defined by their challenges—they’re empowered by their potential. The school’s expert faculty emphasizes real-world application, personal growth, and the confidence students need to succeed in school and beyond.
Eton is the school home of over 200 thriving and talented K-12 students who happen to learn differently. Eton Academy gives students with ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Executive Functioning Disorder, or other learning difficulties the skills they need to be confident and successful.
Eton Academy prides itself on providing: A maximum class size of 10 students and a student to educator ratio of 5:1, individualized instruction and support that students need to regain a true love of learning while also moving forward socially and emotionally, and a partnership with students, teachers, staff members, and parents to form a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone feels included, valued and accomplished.
At Minto’s Casa, the team strives to provide a home away from home for each child. It is a unique childcare and learning center with a caring and homely atmosphere, ideal for every child’s emotional, physical and social growth.
While the staff follows an age-appropriate structured program, the focus is always on the individual needs of each child. The staff consists of experienced, certified teachers and caregivers with more than ten years of experience, all dedicated to providing the best for every child.
Minto’s Casa encourages one-on-one teacher-child interaction and communication so that each child feels they have a special place there.
Novi Christian Academy stands out as a vibrant, Christ-centered school committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth. With small class sizes and passionate, dedicated teachers, students receive personalized instruction that prepares them for college and beyond. NCA’s rigorous curriculum is infused with a biblical worldview, fostering both intellectual development and strong moral character. From advanced placement courses to hands-on STEM programs, students are challenged and inspired every day.
Beyond the classroom, NCA offers a dynamic array of extracurriculars including championship-winning athletic teams, fine arts programs, robotics, and missions outreach. Students regularly participate in local and global service projects, living out their faith in meaningful, real-world ways. Whether it’s leading worship in chapel, competing in state tournaments, or serving on international missions trips, students at Novi Christian Academy are equipped to lead and make a difference for Christ in every arena of life.
At Novi Northville Montessori Center (NNMC), “It’s Not What We Say, It’s What We Do” that maximizes a child’s ability to learn. They speak softly, walk slowly, respect each other through their words and their actions.
NNMC offers one-on-one learning and a place for a child to grow academically and emotionally in a nourishing environment. With their highly individualized program, meeting the needs of each individual child, NNMC’s success is determined by the child’s individual growth meeting their needs.
Southfield Christian School is a leading Christian college preparatory school in Metro Detroit, built on the belief that academic excellence and spiritual growth go hand in hand. With a mission of “Pursuing Excellence for the Glory of God,” the school encourages students to see every area of life as an act of worship. A strong partnership between school, family, and church fosters a Christ-centered community rooted in shared values and purpose.
Recognized as the #1 Christian school in Metro Detroit for 2025, Southfield Christian prepares students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic rigor. The school offers a robust curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and dual enrollment opportunities, with 100% of graduates accepted to the college of their choice.
Beyond academics, students have the opportunity to explore their interests in fine arts and athletics. Whether in the classroom, on stage, or on the field, Southfield Christian equips students to excel—and to do so with faith and purpose.
Type: Private School, Gifted/Talented Program School
The Roeper School is an independent day school for gifted students in preschool through grade 12, with campuses in Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham. Founded in 1941, Roeper offers a challenging, interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity and global awareness.
Students engage in project-based learning, advanced coursework, and hands-on experiences across science, technology, the arts, and humanities. With a strong focus on social justice, Roeper encourages students to lead service initiatives, participate in Model UN and forensics, and explore real-world issues.
The school fosters a collaborative environment where students take intellectual risks, pursue their interests and grow into confident, capable leaders. A no-cut policy in athletics and performing arts ensures that all students can participate, build skills and contribute as valued members of their teams and ensembles.
More private schools in metro Detroit
This section features some of the best private schools in metro Detroit and is based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit. Many of these schools have earned top marks, including A+, A and A– grades.
Why it stands out:Students of Cranbrook Schools gain a unique education–rigorous academics, picturesque facilities and world-class museums are all part of the experience.
It’s no surprise that Cranbrook Schools takes the top spot for best private schools in the Detroit area. The private PreK-12 education system is renowned for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus.
Students of Cranbrook Schools can expect a thoughtful education experience unique to their own needs and interests. Students might take Latin or stellar astronomy then head to a dance showcase after school. Student life at Cranbrook is unique–students experience all 319 acres of the campus as part of the classroom. Plus, the upper school offers a boarding program.
In addition, Cranbrook Schools students have access to the resources of the Cranbrook Institute of Science and Cranbrook Art Museum.
Why it stands out:Greenhills School is well known for its excellent academics and student enrichment offerings. From its prime location in Ann Arbor, Greenhills School is able to benefit from its relationship to the nearby University of Michigan.
Greenhills School students earn a progressive education in a welcoming environment.
The school’s refrain of bringing out brilliance is a guiding principle–teachers are wholly engaged in their students. Academics at Greenhills School are rigorous with an emphasis on whole-child learning.
Greenhills School will soon offer families a K-5 education in addition to the grades six through 12, it currently serves. In the 2026-27 school year, the Summers-Knoll School will become Greenhills’ lower school.
Why it stands out:Detroit Country Day School is a premier private school with impressive academics and a commitment to creating well-rounded global citizens.
Detroit Country Day School is a nationally recognized independent college-prep school serving grades PreK-12.
The school’s curriculum is focused on the principles of providing a globally-minded liberal arts education. Students in upper levels might take a 21st century global issues class or an introductory philosophy course.
Students may also participate in an exchange program to different European countries beginning in the eighth grade.
Why it stands out:Project-based learning, innovative curriculum and small class sizes let students reach the height of their academic potential.
University Liggett School is a PreK-12 private school with a focus on instilling confidence and curiosity.
Graduates of University Liggett School are well prepared to tackle intensive college programs and careers. Students also have the opportunity to play on sports teams, participate in clubs and attend school social events.
Why it stands out:A holistic approach to education is a hallmark of the Waldorf education method. Students are encouraged to become the truest versions of themselves.
Rudolf Steiner School operates by the principles of a Waldorf curriculum. The school is focused on enriching the whole child–from social emotional health to academics.
An example of its unique approach to education is the Pentathlon, which the school celebrates as a coming-of-age competition. Waldorf students study Greek history in fifth grade, and at the end of the lesson, students participate in the Pentathlon. Students are judged not just on athleticism in the modern sense, but also how graceful they are and their conduct.
Why it stands out:The Michigan Islamic Academy offers a secular and religious curriculum. The school is one of few in the area to offer an Islamic studies curriculum.
The Michigan Islamic Academy, located in Ann Arbor, services grades PreK-12. Islamic values are upheld and celebrated at this private school.
Teaching the Qur’an is an integral part of the education a student receives at the academy.The Islamic Studies curriculum uses theNational Islamic Studies Standardsfor grades two through eight, and theYaqeen Curriculumfor grades nine through 12.
Why it stands out:A faith-based school with excellent facilities and a college-prep environment.
Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro Detroit is a college preparatory high school with rigorous academics. The school is committed to furthering Jewish literacy and values.
Students may take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, STEAM classes and fine arts. Roughly two-thirds of students play sports through the school’s participation in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). A partnership with the Jewish Community Center offers students excellent facilities for training.
Why it stands out:A longstanding Catholic institution known for its close knit community and commitment to creating confident leaders.
The Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic PreK-12 school for students of all faiths. The private school serves boys from infancy to grade 8 and girls from infancy to grade 12.
High schoolers engage with challenging college-prep studies, take class retreats and have weekly service learning.
The school is part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools and is affiliated with the Society of the Sacred Heart.
Why it stands out:An all-boys school in the Catholic tradition. Brother Rice graduates are trained to be ethical and civic leaders.
At Brother Rice High School, Catholic values are an integral part of education.
Students are expected to challenge themselves academically–choosing from 41 honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes.
Student life is engaging at this all-boys college-prep school. Roughly 96% of Brother Rice students participate in an extracurricular. As for athletics, the school is highly competitive, with 80 state championship titles.
Why it stands out:An all-boys school serving grades seven through 12 in the Jesuit tradition with excellent academics, athletics and more.
University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy is a premier Catholic all-boys school serving grades seven through 12.
The school says a Jesuit education is “holistic, developing students’ moral character and spirituality along with their intellect.” Graduates are “servants of the common good, advocates for the vulnerable and adept at moral and spiritual discernment.”
As for academics, the academy offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes and rigorous honors courses. Students have the ability to earn college credit while still in high school–they have the option to virtually attend the state’s colleges and universities or take virtual classes through the Arrupe Learning Institute (AVLI).
Why it stands out:Notre Dame Preparatory School is the only Catholic school in the state offering the International Baccalaureate program.
Notre Dame Preparatory School, a PreK-12 Catholic school, is known for its stellar academic offerings. Students can participate in Advanced Placement (AP) courses as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Students in lower grades are prepared for IB in high school through the Primary Year Programme (IB-PYP). Notre Dame Preparatory School is one of few schools in the region to offer the IB-PYP.
Why it stands out:An all-girls private high school with a focus on Catholic values.
Mercy High School is a founding member of theInternational Coalition of Girls’ Schools. The all-girls private school is committed to helping young women reach the highest levels of leadership.
Students can choose from 37 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, more than 50 extracurriculars and 22 sports.
Its education system is rooted in the Gospel, through the Catholic faith and the Mercy charism, the school says.
Why it stands out:All-male Catholic, college-prep high school with a brand new state-of-the-art STEM center.
If your student would thrive in an all-boys, college-prep environment centered on Catholic values, consider Detroit Catholic Central High School.
The private school has been educating young men since 1928 under the direction of the Basilian Fathers. Teachers instill values into their students following the school’s motto, “teach me goodness, discipline and knowledge.”
In 2024, the school constructed the George and Mary Turek Hall of Science. The state-of-the-art STEM center has eight dedicated science labs, a 130-seat lecture hall, sustainability-focused greenhouses and more.
Address:5935 Clarkston Road, Clarkston (Independence Township), MI
Why It Stands Out:The only pre-K–12 school in Michigan designated both a National Blue Ribbon School and a Cardinal Newman Society School, Everest offers gender-specific education from grade 3 onward, rooted in the “Integral Formation” philosophy (academic, spiritual, human, apostolic development), with strong academics, international boarding, and over 60 athletic and extracurricular programs.
Founded in 1991 (Academy) and expanded to high school in 2008, Everest follows the educational model of the Legion of Christ and Regnum Christi, blending Catholic identity with rigorous college-prep and character formation.
Address:3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake Village, MI
Why It Stands Out:A historic Catholic preparatory school set on a 125-acre lakeside campus, St. Mary’s offers co-divisional (single-sex classes with co-ed extracurriculars) education, and is known for its rich Polish-American Catholic heritage, enormous library, NHL-grade hockey arena, and commitment to faith and leadership development.
Founded in 1885 in Detroit to serve Polish seminarians, the school moved to its current Orchard Lake campus in 1909 (former site of the Michigan Military Academy) and became part of the Orchard Lake Schools in 1927; it recently transitioned to include female students in a co-divisional format.
Why It Stands Out: Emphasizes student-led chapel services and offers a strong athletic program.
Founded in the late 1900s, Auburn Hills Christian School has been dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education to students in the Auburn Hills area.
Why It Stands Out:This Modern Orthodox Jewish day school serves Pre‑K through 12 in a close-knit, values-driven environment that consistently achieves top academic outcomes—with a student–teacher ratio of just 8:1, an A+ rating for academics, and a 100% four-year college enrollment rate.
Founded in 1964 through a community-driven meeting led by Rabbis Gordon and Donin and 13 devoted parents, the school has grown through generations of philanthropy and expansion—from the dedication of a kindergarten building in 1974, the elementary in 1986, and a learning resource center in 1988, to a major shift in identity when the Schostak Family endowed the high school in 2001, and a landmark $8 million facility funded by the Farber and Davidson foundations leading to groundbreaking in 2015.
Why It Stands Out:Marian High School is a private, all‑girls, college‑prep Catholic school founded in 1959 by the IHM Sisters (with roots in five local parishes).
It is known for consistently high college‑acceptance rates (often 90–100%), strong academics – including AP and honors courses – and a robust athletics program; enrollment was about 370 in 2023–24.
Why it stands out: This private pre-K–12 Catholic school – one of only five in the Archdiocese of Detroit to offer that full span – was founded in 1960 (as an elementary in 1956).
It boasts continued athletic success including multiple MHSAA state championships, and features a consolidated campus with shared parish church, refurbished over time to include gym additions and expanded facilities.
Why it stands out:This faith-based institution serving grades PreK-12 serves as a hub for the Muslim community on the northside of the city.
This PreK-12 Islamic school located just north of Hamtramck seeks to build academic excellence and character in each student.
Al-Ikhlas offers small class sizes, a strong discipline policy, affordable tuition and an Islamic-based curriculum.Students learn with project-based activities and some classes are separated by gender.
The school offers limited financial aid in the form of scholarships for students with financial need.
Address:32000 North Campbell Road, Madison Heights
Why It Stands Out:A Christ‑centered, co‑educational college-prep school within the Archdiocese of Detroit, Bishop Foley delivers a balanced education with over 100 course offerings (including 20+ AP and honors), small class sizes (~18 students), and exceptional outcomes—99–100% of graduates advance to college.
Founded in 1965 by Guardian Angels Parish (Clawson) and St. Dennis Parish (Royal Oak), Bishop Foley graduated its first class in 1969. Originally built as a single-sex institution, its structure still reflects that era, though it has since fully evolved into a co‑educational model. The school bears the name of Detroit’s first American bishop, John Samuel Foley, and continues its traditions of academic excellence and Catholic identity today.
Why it stands out:Peterson-Warren Academy allows students in grades K-12 to reach their full potential in a Christian environment centered on the Seventh-day Adventist faith.
At Peterson-Warren Academy located in Inkster, students learn in a personalized way in a truly Christian environment. The school follows the Seventh-day Adventist tradition.
Students learn in an environment with an organic garden on site, community service options, foreign language courses, and have many field trips and enrichment opportunities.
Why it stands out:The Plymouth Christian Academy has been awarded for its academic rigor. Students in grades PreK-12 learn in a biblically-centered space.
Plymouth Christian Academy facilitates learning in a Bible-centered environment for grades PreK-12.
The private school is committed to raising the academic standard for its students. In 2024, it was recognized as an Advanced Placement (AP) honor roll school. Of its senior class, 66% of students took at least one AP exam and 45% scored a three or higher. Almost 10% of seniors took five or more AP exams during high school.
Why it stands out:This private school is Christian School International accredited and encourages Christian values and beliefs. It boasts top-notch art, PE, foreign language, music, and extracurriculars as well.
This PreK-12 school snags the top spot in the list of the best private schools in Macomb County.
Students at Parkway Christian School are given ample opportunities to develop positive character traits aligned with a Biblical worldview. Learners are challenged academically through a rigorous curriculum and have the option to get involved in extracurriculars and spiritual development activities. Plus, the school offers robust arts and athletics programs.
Why it stands out:One of the best all-boys Catholic schools in the state is undergoing major updates to continue its excellent academic standards.
De La Salle Collegiate is an all-boys Catholic high school. The school has five core principles: quality education, inclusive community, concern for the poor/social justice, respect and faith.
De La Salle is known for its challenging academic curriculum and close-knit community. The athletics program is renowned for its competitiveness.
A new, state-of-the-art STEM center is currently under construction. Plans for the center include an aviation simulator and more. Phase 2 of the school’s long-term construction plans include an athletics complex.
Why it stands out:One of the top all-girls schools in the state offering rigorous academics, plenty of extracurriculars and a close-knit community committed to the Catholic faith.
Young women at Regina High School have an abundance of choice when it comes to their education.
Students can choose from more than 100 classes including 19 honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Regina offers STEM initiatives like GET-IT, a programming and coding program. Students interested in STEM can also participate in the robotics team.
The school’s small class sizes, highly educated teachers and rigorous curriculum also contribute to the college-prep environment.
Why it stands out:An enriching environment across the board, with standout academics, athletics and arts from a Catholic perspective.
This co-ed, Catholic high school aims to graduate a cohort of high achievers with a foundation of faith.
The school’s college-prep environment includes 12 Advanced Placement (AP) courses as well as honors. Students participate in the fine arts, with two concerts and four full-scale theater productions every year.
Student athletes at Father Gabriel choose from 43 teams across 29 sports. The school says it strives to develop each student’s “god-given talents.”
Why It Stands Out:This all‑girls private Catholic high school (grades nine through 12) distinguishes itself through a deeply integrated Catholic identity – students attend daily Mass before lunch, one of the few schools in the area with this built‑in spiritual rhythm, fostering calm, reflection, and moral formation.
Since opening in 2008, the school has upheld its mission of forming bold, faith‑filled young women by cultivating their “feminine genius”— merging academic rigor (Harkness-style discussions, AP/honors, dual enrollment with Madonna University), leadership, and spiritual development within its striking 137,000-square-foot campus on 33 acres – complete with a chapel-centered design, modern classrooms, labs, arts facilities, athletic complex and even a school storefront.
Why it stands out:This Catholic high school allows students to expand their knowledge with rigorous classes as well as their spiritual foundation.
This Catholic high school enriches students’ minds as well as their faiths.
Gabriel Richards students learn in a rigorous environment with 22 Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses and small class sizes with individualized attention. Most classes average 18 students or fewer.
The school says 100% of its recent graduates have been accepted into college.
Why It Stands Out: Provides a nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on biblical teachings.
With roots dating back to the 1800s, the school has continued to have small class sizes with individualized instruction and dynamic lessons that embrace the latest technology.
Why it stands out:Divine Child High School provides rigorous academics and robust student life for a unique high school experience centered around God.
Divine Child High School is prepared to educate a wide range of students and to help each succeed.
For students who want to push themselves, the school offers 20 Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses. Learners in need of support have options with the school’s Instructional Support Program (ISP).
Athletics are a large part of student life at Divine Child High School. Athletes can choose from more than 30 sports. And with more than 40 state championships and over 100 Catholic High School League Championships, parents can be sure their children will be placed in a competitive environment.
Why It Stands Out:Shrine Catholic High School & Academy is part of a welcoming, faith-filled K–12 coeducational system rooted in the National Shrine of the Little Flower parish. It’s distinguished by its rigorous academic offerings – including 18 AP/honors courses, dual-enrollment in world languages, engineering, and business, and strong fine arts and STEM programs – along with remarkable college outcomes such as $13.8 million in merit scholarships, National Merit recognition, and a 65% acceptance rate to the University of Michigan.
Founded in 1941 as Little Flower High School for Girls and later Shrine High School for Boys, the schools were consolidated in 1948, transitioning to Shrine High School and evolving over the decades. Major expansions include the launch of the Academy (middle school) in 1993, significant campus renovations in the 2000s (science labs, field house, auditorium), and a rebrand as Shrine Catholic High School & Academy in 2001.
Why it stands out:Clonlara offers an individualized education for kids in grades K-12 in a multi-age classroom setting.
Students thrive using Clonlara’s highly personalized learning approach.
The school follows the Clonlara Full Circle Learning Model, which encourages students to dig deeper on subjects that capture their attention. The research backed approach allows for a deeper understanding of whichever topic sparks a student’s interest.
Students learn in multi-age classrooms with a low student to teacher ratio and are part of a global learning community.
Why it stands out:This school is known for its involved students and commitment to the greater community. Graduates of Hope Christian are prepared to become leaders and collaborators.
Hope Christian Academy (HCA) offers students in grades six through 12 an “innovative Christian education.” Academics are founded on four principles: Christ, communication, critical thinking and collaboration.
Students at Hope Christian Academy are highly involved. More than 75% of students participate in a co-curricular activity and student athletes have the opportunity to play multiple sports. Volunteering with the larger community is a fundamental part of education at this school.
For students with an interest in art, the academy has many options, including choir, yearbook, drama and jazz band. The HCA Band is also a member of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association.
