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Synopsis
Education in Savannah has long been shaped by its religious and cultural heritage, with private institutions playing a prominent role in the city’s history and development.
Historical Foundations
Before the Civil War, most of Savannah’s youth were educated exclusively in private settings. A notable example was the Bethesda Orphan House, established in 1740 by George Whitefield. Renowned for his charismatic advocacy, Whitefield attracted influential supporters, including Benjamin Franklin. Having educated and supported more than 12,000 boys throughout its history, Bethesda today operates as a non-denominational Christian academy for boys in grades 6-12.1
Another notable example of faith-based educational efforts in Savannah emerged in 1899 with the founding of the Kate Baldwin Free Kindergartens. Established by prominent Savannahian George Johnson Baldwin and his sisters to honor their mother, Kate A. Baldwin, this initiative reflected the Baldwins’ Unitarian values of education, morality, and community service, providing free early childhood education to underserved children. At its peak, the program operated multiple kindergartens and a teacher training school, serving thousands of children between 1899 and 1943.2 These kindergartens laid the groundwork for integrating early childhood education into Savannah’s public school system, leaving a lasting legacy of accessible education and societal improvement.
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Faith-Based Education Today
Savannah’s private schools serve approximately 19% of all K-12 students, significantly exceeding the Georgia state average of 9%. Among these private institutions, 73% are faith-based, with the majority affiliated with Catholic or other Christian denominations. The strong enrollment may be partially attributable to private school tuition costs in Savannah, which are over 26% lower than the state average.3
Catholic Schools
Savannah is home to three Catholic schools serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade (Blessed Sacrament, St. James and St. Peter the Apostle), alongside two Catholic college-preparatory high schools (Benedictine Military School and St. Vincent's Academy). These institutions emphasize a robust academic curriculum grounded in Catholic faith and values.
Other Christian Schools
In addition to Catholic schools, Savannah boasts a diverse array of Christian-oriented educational options. Beyond Bethesda Academy, schools like Calvary Day School, The Habersham School, Memorial Day School, Savannah Christian Preparatory School, Savannah Legacy Academy, and Veritas Academy provide a range of independent and classical Christian educations.
Jewish School
Rambam Day School offers Jewish religious education combined with secular academics for students from Pre-K through 8th grade, serving Savannah’s Jewish community and families seeking dual-curriculum education.
Conclusion
Faith has been a cornerstone of education in Savannah since its earliest days, with religious institutions historically offering moral and academic guidance to the community's youth. This legacy is complemented by innovative examples like the Kate Baldwin Free Kindergartens, which pioneered early childhood education in the city. Today, faith’s influence endures through a range of schools, providing values-based teaching and underscoring its lasting role in shaping Savannah's educational landscape.
