The Best Private Schools in Garfield, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Garfield. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Shiloh Christian School
Independent Christian School
Shiloh Christian School is a highly regarded private Christian school serving Northwest Arkansas, including Garfield, with a comprehensive education from preschool through high school. It emphasizes academic excellence through a rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The school offers robust extracurricular programs in athletics, fine arts, and STEM, fostering character development and college readiness. Parent satisfaction is high due to its strong community focus and proven track record of student success.
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Providence Academy
Private Christian School
Providence Academy provides a classical Christian education that integrates faith and learning, serving students from Garfield and the broader Northwest Arkansas region. Known for its rigorous academics, the school focuses on critical thinking, moral formation, and a well-rounded curriculum including humanities, STEM, and arts. With small class sizes, experienced teachers, and modern facilities, it promotes high parent satisfaction and student achievement. Extracurricular activities enrich the educational experience, preparing students for future endeavors.
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The New School
Independent Progressive School
The New School is an innovative private school serving Garfield and the Northwest Arkansas area with a progressive, student-centered approach to education. It emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement through project-based learning and arts integration. The school features experienced educators, flexible learning environments, and a strong focus on individualized instruction. High parent satisfaction stems from its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to developing well-rounded, lifelong learners prepared for college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Garfield, Arkansas
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Garfield, Arkansas?
While Garfield itself is a small community, families in the area have access to several well-regarded private schools in the broader Northwest Arkansas region. The most prominent options include Shiloh Christian School in Springdale (a Pre-K through 12th grade college-preparatory school with a Christian foundation), Providence Academy in Rogers (a classical Christian school), and The New School in Fenton (a progressive, independent school). Many Garfield residents commute to these schools, which are typically a 20-30 minute drive. There are limited, if any, private school campuses physically located within Garfield's town limits, so transportation planning is an important local consideration.
How does tuition at private schools near Garfield, AR, compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Northwest Arkansas corridor near Garfield is generally competitive but can vary significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for schools like Shiloh Christian or Providence Academy typically ranges from approximately $8,000 to $12,000 annually for elementary grades, with high school levels being higher. This is somewhat above the Arkansas state average for private school tuition, reflecting the region's growth and the schools' resources. Importantly, all major schools offer need-based financial aid, and Arkansas's Succeed Scholarship Program for students with disabilities can also be used at participating private schools. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and deadlines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Garfield offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Garfield area often leverage the economic and cultural momentum of Northwest Arkansas to offer specialized programs. For instance, Shiloh Christian has a strong emphasis on STEM and championship-caliber athletics. Providence Academy offers a distinct classical, humanities-focused curriculum rooted in the trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric). The New School provides a highly individualized, project-based learning environment with small class sizes. These schools often have more flexibility than the Bentonville or Rogers public school districts to create niche programs, such as specific arts conservatories, intensive foreign language studies, or faith-based education, which is a key draw for Garfield families seeking a specific educational philosophy.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Garfield, Arkansas, families?
The enrollment process for the top private schools near Garfield is highly structured and often begins very early. For schools like Shiloh Christian and Providence Academy, the application window for the following academic year typically opens in the fall (October-November), with priority deadlines in January or February. The process usually involves an application form, student and family interviews, academic records review, and sometimes entrance testing. Due to high demand and limited seats, especially in entry-level grades, it is strongly advised for Garfield parents to begin research and campus visits at least a year in advance. Sibling and legacy applicant policies are common, so checking with each school's admissions office for their specific calendar is essential.
For a family in Garfield, what are the key considerations when choosing between the Bentonville Public School District and a private school in NWA?
Garfield residents are zoned for the highly-rated Bentonville Public School District, making the choice significant. Key considerations include: **Educational Approach:** Bentonville schools offer a robust, standard curriculum with extensive AP courses, while private options provide specialized philosophies (classical, progressive, faith-based). **Class Size:** Private schools near Garfield typically boast much smaller student-to-teacher ratios. **Cost:** This is a major factor, as choosing private school means forgoing free public education and paying tuition, though financial aid may be available. **Community & Values:** Private schools often foster a close-knit community aligned with specific values, which can be a deciding factor. **Logistics:** Commuting to a private school in Springdale, Rogers, or Fenton involves a daily drive, whereas Bentonville schools may have bus service for the Garfield area. Weighing these local factors is crucial for each family.