Where are the good secular private schools?

[Nicodemus2004]

We are looking for a school with an emphisis on teaching the basics without all the religious crap. I am an atheist and my wife is an agnostic. Our soon-to-be 4 year old son is attending a private school now but with a christian indoctrination program. They say the pledge to our flag (of course) followed by the pledge to the Bible and then another pledge to the christian flag of the school. WTF!
However, our attempts at looking into a regular daycare were met with simple babysitting without teaching and in small, over capacity rooms. Little more than holding areas.
How can I get my son on a solid footing in education with the sciences, math and history without all the mythology baggage? We want him to be aware of the religions of others but not have it drilled into his young mind.
Where are the secular private schools that are needed so badly these days?

 

[zakur]

In my area, this school is the only real choice as far as secular private schools. But tuition there costs an arm and a leg.

Try this directory.

 

[Sansha]

I wouldn't necessarily worry about sending your child to a christian school. My parents are both atheists (well Dad is and mum is near enough) and I went to a christian school without any ill effects. In fact, I just used to piss off the teacher by constantly asking questions she couldn't answer (and not in a "bad kid" kind of way - I was just naturally inquisitive and my parents had a very socratic approach to my education). The inability of anyone at that school to sufficiently explain any of the glaring inconsistencies and problems with their faith really cemented my atheism.

And I even used to go to the non-compulsory before school chapel service. I enjoyed the peace and quiet.

Of course, this was in Australia, and most of our "old school" Christian private schools are pretty moderate. With some, it would be hard to pick them as religious schools.

 

[ranson]

This is depressing. Having checked that locator, the nearest non-sectarian school for my kid would be in another county.

I do so love living in the Bible Belt.

 

[Nicodemus2004]

ranson First let me say.. Welcome to the JREF! I see you are a newbie, to this MB anyway.
Second, I understand. Many of those that would be beneficial are over an hours drive thru heavy traffic, both ways!

Sansha Thanks for the insight. I worry about that very aspect of his schooling. I feel more than capable to explain how and why I feel the way I do about religion but fear an ingrained aspect that may be difficult for him to grow out of. Your situation is helpful in that you have been were he will be in the next few coming years. Again, thanks.

 

[CBL4]

One other thing you can look for is co-op preschools. The parents take turns being the teachers which obviously requires a lot of parental involvement including some during the work week. Most of them are not 5 day a week schools so they may not suit your needs.

CBL