The Best Private Schools in Glenwood, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Glenwood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Anthony School
Independent Private School
The Anthony School, while located in Little Rock approximately 75 miles from Glenwood, serves as a regional option for families seeking exceptional private education. As one of Arkansas's premier independent schools, it offers advanced academic programs specifically designed for gifted and high-achieving students. The school features outstanding facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive student development programs, The Anthony School consistently produces graduates who attend top-tier universities nationwide.
Programs:
Covenant Christian School
Independent Christian School
Covenant Christian School serves families in the Glenwood region from its Hot Springs location, offering a classical Christian education model with strong college preparatory focus. The school integrates faith-based learning with rigorous academics across all grade levels. Students benefit from comprehensive fine arts programs, competitive athletics, and community service opportunities. The school maintains small class sizes with experienced faculty and has established a track record of graduating students who excel in higher education.
Programs:
Lisa Academy Hot Springs
Lisa Academy Public Charter Schools
Lisa Academy Hot Springs is a highly-rated public charter school serving the Glenwood area, located approximately 30 minutes away in Hot Springs. The school emphasizes college preparatory education with a strong STEM focus, offering advanced placement courses and comprehensive extracurricular programs. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains high academic standards and has built a reputation for student success in college admissions. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic facilities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Glenwood, Arkansas
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Glenwood, Arkansas, and how accessible are they?
For families in Glenwood, AR, the most prominent nearby private schools are Lisa Academy Hot Springs (a public charter school with a private-school-like model, located in Hot Springs), Covenant Christian School (a private Christian school in Hot Springs), and The Anthony School (a private, independent school in Little Rock). It's important to note that Glenwood itself has a very limited number of private schools, so most families look to neighboring cities. Accessibility involves a commute; Lisa Academy Hot Springs is about a 30-minute drive, while The Anthony School is over an hour away. Many families in rural areas like Glenwood form carpools or utilize school-provided transportation if available.
How does tuition for private schools near Glenwood, AR, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools serving the Glenwood area varies. Covenant Christian School's tuition is generally below the national private school average, often ranging between $5,000-$8,000 annually, making it a more accessible option for many Arkansas families. The Anthony School, as a premier independent school, has a higher tuition, comparable to major metro areas. Arkansas offers the Succeed Scholarship Program for students with disabilities, which can be used at participating private schools. Additionally, most schools offer need-based financial aid, sibling discounts, and payment plans. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school, as aid can significantly reduce the net cost.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Glenwood, Arkansas, offer that may not be available in the local public district?
Schools accessible to Glenwood families offer specialized programs that differentiate them. Lisa Academy Hot Springs emphasizes a STEM-focused curriculum with project-based learning. Covenant Christian School integrates biblical worldview across all subjects and may offer smaller, more personalized classroom settings than larger public districts. The Anthony School provides a highly accelerated academic program, foreign language instruction starting at a young age, and extensive arts and athletics. For Glenwood students interested in advanced STEM, a classical Christian education, or a highly rigorous independent school track, these private options provide distinct pathways not typically found in a single rural public school.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Glenwood, AR, and are there considerations for rural applicants?
The timeline is critical. Most private schools, like The Anthony School and Covenant Christian School, have application deadlines in the winter (January-February) for the following fall, with decisions made in spring. Lisa Academy Hot Springs, as a public charter, may have a lottery system if applications exceed seats. For Glenwood families, key considerations include: starting the process early (12-18 months in advance for top choices), scheduling visits that account for travel time, and clearly communicating your family's commitment to the commute. Schools may be understanding of rural applicants but expect demonstrated follow-through. Sibling and legacy policies can also impact admission chances.
For a family in Glenwood, what are the main factors to consider when choosing between the local public school and a private school requiring a significant commute?
The decision hinges on several Glenwood-specific factors. First, evaluate the commute's impact: 1-2 hours of daily driving affects family time, extracurricular participation, and student fatigue. Second, assess academic fit: if your child needs a highly specialized program (e.g., intensive STEM, gifted education) not robustly offered locally, the commute may be justified. Third, consider community and values: private schools offer a specific religious or pedagogical community that may align closely with your family's goals. Finally, weigh the financial cost of tuition plus transportation against the benefits. Many Glenwood families find a hybrid approach, choosing a nearby private option like Covenant Christian for middle school, or utilizing the local public schools for younger grades.