The Best Private Schools in Belleville, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Belleville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. John Catholic School
Diocese of Little Rock
St. John Catholic School is a highly-regarded private school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Located approximately 15 miles from Belleville in Russellville, this accredited institution provides a comprehensive Catholic education with strong academic foundations. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent academic preparation for high school.
Programs:
The Anthony School
Independent
The Anthony School is a premier independent private school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. While located in Little Rock (approximately 75 miles from Belleville), it attracts families from throughout central Arkansas seeking exceptional educational opportunities. The school is renowned for its advanced academic curriculum, individualized instruction, and strong emphasis on critical thinking. Facilities include state-of-the-art technology labs, extensive arts programs, and comprehensive athletic offerings. Parent reviews consistently highlight the school's outstanding teachers, challenging curriculum, and supportive learning environment.
Programs:
Pulaski Academy
Independent
Pulaski Academy is a highly respected college preparatory school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Located in Little Rock, this independent school serves families from throughout central Arkansas, including the Belleville area. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, with 100% of graduates attending four-year colleges and universities. Features include extensive Advanced Placement course offerings, championship athletic programs, outstanding fine arts facilities, and comprehensive STEM laboratories. Parent satisfaction is exceptionally high, with reviews praising the school's academic excellence, dedicated faculty, and strong community atmosphere.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Belleville, Arkansas
What are the primary private school options serving families in Belleville, Arkansas, and are they located directly in town?
While Belleville itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby cities for private school options. The most prominent schools that serve the Belleville, AR area include St. John Catholic School in Russellville, The Anthony School in Little Rock, and Pulaski Academy in Little Rock. There are no major private school campuses physically located within Belleville's city limits, so transportation or relocation considerations are important. Many families in the River Valley and Central Arkansas regions consider these schools for their strong reputations and programs.
How does tuition for top private schools near Belleville, AR compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for the leading private schools accessible from Belleville, such as Pulaski Academy and The Anthony School, is generally above the Arkansas state average for private education, often ranging from approximately $10,000 to $20,000+ annually for lower and upper grades. However, Arkansas has specific programs that can help. The Succeed Scholarship Program is a state-funded voucher for students with disabilities, and the Philanthropic Investment in Arkansas Kids Scholarship Program offers need-based assistance. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. It's crucial to apply for aid directly through each school's financial office.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Belleville, AR region offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the broader region accessible to Belleville families often provide specialized programs not always available in smaller public school districts. For example, Pulaski Academy is renowned for its comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum, competitive athletics, and extensive arts. The Anthony School emphasizes gifted education and project-based learning with a low student-to-teacher ratio. St. John Catholic School offers a faith-based education integrated with STEM and fine arts. These schools often have more resources for advanced placement courses, robotics, theater, and competitive sports leagues, providing a breadth of opportunity that can supplement the community-focused environment of Belleville's public schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools near Belleville, Arkansas?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools like Pulaski Academy or The Anthony School begins early, often a full year in advance. Key steps usually include: attending an open house (typically in the fall), submitting an application by January or February for the following academic year, completing student assessments or interviews, and providing records from the current school. Many schools have rolling admissions after priority deadlines, but spaces fill quickly, especially in lower grades. For Belleville residents, it's also vital to inquire about transportation services or carpool networks, as daily commuting to Little Rock or Russellville is a significant logistical factor.
For a family living in Belleville, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school in a nearby city?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. The Belleville Public School District offers the convenience of a close-knit, community-based education with no tuition or lengthy commute. Opting for a private school in Little Rock or Russellville means evaluating a daily commute of 45 minutes to over an hour, which impacts family schedules and transportation costs. Academically, it involves comparing the specialized programs, class sizes, and college preparatory focus of the private schools against the offerings of the smaller public district. Financially, you must weigh tuition and potential aid against the tax-supported public system. Many families find value in both; the choice often centers on the desired educational approach and the family's capacity to manage the commute and financial investment.