The Best Private Schools in Crossett, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Crossett. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Crossett Christian School
Independent Christian School
Crossett Christian School is the primary local private school option serving the Crossett community. Established in 1999, this K-12 institution provides a comprehensive Christian education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The school offers a college preparatory curriculum alongside robust athletic programs including basketball, baseball, and volleyball. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains high parent satisfaction ratings and serves as a cornerstone of private education in the Ashley County area. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities that support their comprehensive educational mission.
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Riverdale Academy
Independent Private School
Riverdale Academy, located approximately 40 miles from Crossett in Bossier City, Louisiana, is a well-established private school serving students from across the Ark-La-Tex region. Founded in 1979, the academy offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with particular strengths in STEM education and fine arts. The school maintains small class sizes and features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, technology centers, and extensive athletic complexes. Riverdale has consistently high parent satisfaction ratings and serves many Arkansas families from the Crossett area seeking comprehensive private education with strong academic outcomes and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
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Parkers Chapel School
Independent School District
Located approximately 30 miles from Crossett in El Dorado, Parkers Chapel School is a highly-regarded private institution serving students from throughout southern Arkansas. Founded in 1970, the school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence with Advanced Placement courses and comprehensive career technical education programs. The school features excellent facilities including modern STEM labs, performing arts spaces, and competitive athletic programs. Parent reviews consistently highlight the school's strong community atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and successful college placement record, making it a popular choice for families in the Crossett region seeking private education options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Crossett, Arkansas
What are the main private school options available for families in Crossett, Arkansas, and what grade levels do they serve?
In Crossett, Arkansas, the primary private school options are Crossett Christian School, which typically serves Pre-K through 12th grade and is the only local option covering all K-12 grades; Parkers Chapel School, located in nearby El Dorado (about 30 miles away), serving K-12; and Riverdale Academy, a Pre-K through 12th school in nearby Lake Village (about 40 miles away). For Crossett residents, Crossett Christian School offers the most immediate access, while families may consider the others for different educational approaches or if willing to commute. The availability of full K-12 private education within the city itself is a key consideration for Crossett parents.
How does tuition at Crossett, AR private schools compare to the Arkansas state average, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition at Crossett Christian School is generally below the state average for private K-12 education in Arkansas, which can range significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Crossett Christian's tuition is approximately $5,000-$7,000 annually, making it a more affordable private option in a region with a lower cost of living. Arkansas-specific aid includes the Succeed Scholarship Program for students with disabilities, and the state's Educational Freedom Account (EFA) program, phased in starting 2024-2025, which may provide funds for eligible families to use at private schools. It's crucial to contact the school's financial office directly for the most current rates and aid eligibility.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Crossett area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Crossett area, notably Crossett Christian School, emphasize a faith-based education integrated into all subjects, which is their primary differentiator. They often offer smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. While specific advanced placement or specialized STEM programs may be more limited than in larger districts, these schools frequently provide strong foundational academics, character education, and opportunities in athletics, music, and community service. Riverdale Academy and Parkers Chapel School, being slightly farther, may offer different athletic conferences or club options. The defining feature for Crossett's private education is the combination of academic rigor within a specific religious or values-based framework.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for Crossett Christian School, and are there considerations for students transferring from Crossett Public Schools?
Crossett Christian School typically begins its enrollment process in early spring (February-March) for the following academic year, with rolling admission afterward if spaces remain. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, a pastor's recommendation (for CCS), a family interview, and placement testing. For students transferring from Crossett Public Schools, it's important to note that the academic calendars and some curriculum sequences may differ. CCS often welcomes transfers at semester breaks or at the start of the school year. Prospective families are strongly encouraged to schedule a tour and meeting with the administration to discuss alignment and ensure a smooth transition for the student.
For a family in Crossett, what are the key practical factors to consider when choosing between Crossett Christian School and the Crossett Public School District?
Key factors include: **1. Educational Philosophy:** CCS offers a Christ-centered education, while CPSD provides a secular education. **2. Cost:** CPSD is tuition-free; CCS requires tuition, though financial aid may be available. **3. Class Size:** CCS typically has much smaller class sizes (often 15:1 or lower) compared to CPSD. **4. Programs & Scale:** CPSD, as a larger district, may offer a wider variety of elective courses, advanced classes, and extracurricular activities (like specific sports teams or bands). **5. Community & Convenience:** CCS offers a close-knit community rooted in shared faith, and its location within Crossett provides convenience. CPSD serves the broader, more diverse community of the city. Visiting both, talking to current parents, and assessing your child's specific needs within the context of Crossett are essential steps.
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