The Best Private Schools in Cash, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cash. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Bernards Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Little Rock
St. Bernards Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution located approximately 15 miles from Cash in Jonesboro. The school offers a comprehensive K-12 education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school provides individualized attention and maintains high academic standards. The curriculum includes advanced placement courses, robust STEM programs, and comprehensive fine arts education. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic facilities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong community values.
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Ridgefield Christian School
Independent Christian School
Ridgefield Christian School has served northeast Arkansas for over four decades, drawing students from Cash and surrounding communities. The school provides a Christ-centered education with rigorous academic programs designed to prepare students for college and beyond. Features include comprehensive athletic programs, music and arts education, and advanced technology integration. The school maintains small student-teacher ratios and offers dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges. Parents appreciate the strong sense of community, dedicated teachers, and the balance between academic challenge and spiritual development. The campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, and extensive athletic facilities.
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Brookland School District - Gifted and Talented Academy
Brookland School District
While part of the public school system, Brookland's Gifted and Talented Academy operates as a selective private-style program that serves students from Cash and surrounding areas through school choice options. This highly competitive academy provides accelerated learning opportunities for academically gifted students with specialized curriculum, advanced placement courses, and enriched learning experiences. The program features dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, state-of-the-art technology resources, and partnerships with local universities. Students benefit from individualized learning plans, research opportunities, and comprehensive college preparation. The academy has earned recognition for its exceptional student outcomes and innovative educational approaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cash, Arkansas
What are the realistic private school options for families living in Cash, Arkansas, given its small size?
While Cash itself is a very small town, families have access to several well-regarded private schools in the surrounding Northeast Arkansas region. The closest options typically include St. Bernards Catholic School in Jonesboro (approx. 20-minute drive) and Ridgefield Christian School, also in Jonesboro. For specialized public programs that function similarly to private academies, the Brookland School District's Gifted and Talented Academy is another consideration, though it is a public school with selective admission. Most families in Cash considering private education should expect to commute to Jonesboro, which serves as the educational hub for the area.
How does tuition at private schools near Cash, AR, compare to the state average, and are there any state-specific aid programs?
Tuition for private schools in the Jonesboro area serving Cash residents is generally below the national average but aligns with regional costs. For example, area parochial schools often have lower tuition rates supported by their congregations. Arkansas offers the Succeed Scholarship Program for students with disabilities, which can be used at participating private schools. Additionally, the state has an Educational Freedom Account (EFA) program, phased in by 2025-2026, which may provide families with funds for private school tuition, fees, and other expenses. It's crucial to check each school's financial aid offerings and their participation in these state programs.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Cash/Jonesboro area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the region often provide distinctive programs tailored to their missions. St. Bernards Catholic School offers a faith-based curriculum integrated with STEM and fine arts. Ridgefield Christian School emphasizes a college-preparatory program from a Christian worldview, often with smaller class sizes and specific athletic emphases. While not a private school, the nearby Brookland Gifted and Talented Academy provides an accelerated, project-based curriculum for qualified students. These schools often offer more specialized programming in areas like religious education, classical learning, or targeted gifted services than the general curriculum of the very small Cash public school district.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Cash, Arkansas families?
The enrollment process for schools like St. Bernards and Ridgefield Christian usually begins in January or February for the following academic year. It is highly recommended to contact admissions offices by early winter as spaces, particularly in lower grades, can be limited. The process typically involves an application, submission of past academic records, a family interview, and often an entrance assessment for the student. For the Brookland Gifted and Talented Academy (a public program), there is a separate, rigorous testing and identification process with specific deadlines set by the Brookland School District. Families in Cash should plan ahead due to the commute and limited seats.
For a family in rural Cash, what are the key logistical and community factors to consider when choosing a private school in Jonesboro?
The primary logistical factor is the daily commute to Jonesboro, which involves planning for transportation, weather, and time management. Many families form carpools. Community-wise, choosing a school often means integrating into a Jonesboro-based community, so involvement in school events, sports, and activities will require travel. It's important to consider how the school's values align with your family's, as the close-knit community of the private school will become a significant part of your social network. Visiting the schools, driving the route during school drop-off times, and talking to other commuting families are essential steps to understand the full commitment.