The Best Private Schools in Story, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Story. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Pulaski Academy
Independent
Pulaski Academy is a highly regarded independent school known for its rigorous academic curriculum and exceptional college preparation. It offers a wide range of programs including advanced STEM courses, performing arts, and competitive athletics. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, small class sizes, and a strong emphasis on character development. Parent satisfaction is high due to its track record of academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular opportunities, serving students from Story and surrounding regions.
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Episcopal Collegiate School
Independent
Episcopal Collegiate School provides a well-rounded education with a focus on liberal arts and college readiness. It boasts a diverse curriculum that includes robust arts programs, competitive sports, and community service initiatives. The school is praised for its dedicated faculty, modern facilities, and inclusive environment. With strong parent reviews highlighting academic rigor and student support, it attracts families from Story and the broader central Arkansas area.
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Hot Springs Christian Academy
Christian
Hot Springs Christian Academy offers a faith-based education combined with strong academic programs, including college preparatory courses and a variety of athletic options. The school emphasizes spiritual growth, moral development, and academic achievement in a supportive community. It features well-maintained facilities and a range of extracurricular activities. Parent feedback consistently notes high satisfaction with the school's nurturing environment and commitment to excellence, making it a popular choice for families in Story and nearby communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Story, Arkansas
What are the realistic private school options for families residing in Story, Arkansas, given its rural location?
Story, AR, is a very small, unincorporated community, so there are no private schools within the town itself. Families typically look to nearby metropolitan areas. The most accessible and highly-regarded options are in Little Rock, approximately an hour's drive away, such as Pulaski Academy and Episcopal Collegiate School. For some families in southern Arkansas, Hot Springs Christian Academy (about 1.5 hours away) may also be considered. The key consideration for Story residents is commuting logistics, carpooling possibilities, and whether schools offer extended-day programs to accommodate longer travel times.
How does the tuition for top Arkansas private schools compare, and are there financial aid options for rural families from places like Story?
Tuition for schools like Pulaski Academy and Episcopal Collegiate School in Little Rock typically ranges from approximately $20,000 to $25,000 per year for middle and upper school. Importantly, these schools offer substantial need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. For families in Story, demonstrating need can factor in unique rural economic circumstances. Additionally, Arkansas has the Succeed Scholarship Program for students with IEPs, which can be used at approved private schools. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early, as funds are limited and the process is separate from admissions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs at Little Rock-area private schools might justify the commute from Story?
Schools like Pulaski Academy and Episcopal Collegiate School offer programs rarely found in Arkansas's rural public districts. These include robust Advanced Placement and honors course sequences, extensive world language programs (like Chinese or Latin), dedicated college counseling starting in 9th grade, and competitive athletic leagues. Episcopal Collegiate has a strong emphasis on community service and global studies, while Pulaski Academy is known for its integrated technology and entrepreneurship programs. For a student in Story with specific talents in academics, arts, or sports, these programs can provide a significant advantage for college preparation.
What is the enrollment timeline and process like for a family from Story applying to a Little Rock private school?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For a fall entry, families should initiate applications in the preceding September or October. Key steps include: 1) Attending open houses or virtual tours (essential for Story families due to distance), 2) Submitting applications by January deadlines, 3) Scheduling student testing and interviews (often on Saturdays), and 4) Applying for financial aid concurrently. Notification is typically in March. Given the commute, many schools will want to discuss your plan for consistent attendance and participation. Starting early is critical to manage travel for visits and interviews.
For a family in Story, what are the primary factors to consider when choosing between the local public school and a private school in Little Rock?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors: 1) **Commute & Time:** A 2+ hour daily round-trip impacts family time and the student's ability to participate in after-school activities. 2) **Academic Fit:** Compare the curriculum, class sizes, and special education resources of your local Garland County public school with the specialized, college-prep focus of a Little Rock private academy. 3) **Community & Social Life:** Attending school far from home can make it challenging for a student to build local friendships and participate in community events in Story. 4) **Cost vs. Benefit:** Weigh the significant financial investment against the potential for a more individualized education and broader opportunities. Many families visit both their local public school and the private options to make this highly personal comparison.
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