The Piney Woods Country Life School is a co-educational independent historically African-American boarding school for grades 9–12 in Piney Woods, unincorporated Rankin County, Mississippi.
It is 21 miles south of Jackson. It is one of four remaining historically African-American boarding schools in the United States.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked MS School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: 8-12
- Enrollment: 86 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
The Piney Woods School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Mississippi for:
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 8-12
Year Founded
1909
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Campus Size
2000
Student Body
Total Students
86 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
100%
State avg.: 19%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
National avg.:
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Piney Woods School's ranking?
The Piney Woods School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Mississippi for: Highest percentage of students of color and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for The Piney Woods School?
The application deadline for The Piney Woods School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 5/12/2017
This school has given my child the education that I wish every child could have. She has been able to compete with other private schools. Her dreams of traveling has become reality. Best investment ever!!!
5 7/17/2015
Looking for a teacher opening.
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