The Best Private Schools in Dixon, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Dixon. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary School
Diocese of Sacramento Catholic Schools
St. Mary School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving students from Dixon and surrounding communities. Established in 1956, the school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence within a faith-based environment. The school features modern facilities, dedicated teachers with an average of 15+ years experience, and a robust curriculum that includes STEM education, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent academic preparation for high school.
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Country High School
Vacaville Christian Schools
Country High School, part of the Vacaville Christian Schools system, serves students from Dixon and throughout Solano County. Founded in 1976, this college-preparatory Christian school offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and individualized attention. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, extensive athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school maintains high academic standards with 100% college acceptance rate and offers numerous AP courses, competitive sports teams, and comprehensive arts programs. Parent reviews highlight the strong community atmosphere and excellent teacher-student relationships.
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St. James Elementary School
Diocese of Sacramento Catholic Schools
St. James Elementary School in Davis serves families from Dixon and the greater Yolo-Solano region. Established in 1960, this Catholic school provides education from preschool through 8th grade with a focus on developing the whole child academically, spiritually, and socially. The school features a comprehensive curriculum enhanced by technology integration, Spanish language instruction starting in kindergarten, and strong emphasis on community service. Facilities include modern classrooms, science lab, library, and playgrounds. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its dedicated faculty, safe environment, and excellent academic foundation that prepares students for competitive high schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Dixon, California
What are the primary private school options available for K-12 education in Dixon, California, and what are their educational models?
Dixon, California, offers a small but distinct selection of private schools. The main institutions are St. Mary School (Catholic, Pre-K through 8th grade), St. James Elementary School (Catholic, K-8), and Country High School (private, alternative high school). St. Mary and St. James provide a faith-based, traditional academic foundation, while Country High School focuses on personalized, independent study programs for high school students seeking a non-traditional path. For families seeking a comprehensive K-12 private experience within Dixon itself, options are limited, leading many to also consider schools in nearby Davis, Vacaville, or Fairfield.
How does tuition for private schools in Dixon, CA, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at Dixon's private schools is generally below the high-cost averages seen in major California metropolitan areas but is consistent with Solano County. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect tuition for elementary grades at St. Mary or St. James to range from approximately $6,000 to $8,000 annually. Country High School's tuition varies based on program structure. All these schools typically offer financial aid, including parish subsidies for active church members at the Catholic schools, need-based grants, and sibling discounts. California's tax-advantaged 529 plans can also be used for K-12 private tuition, providing a statewide benefit for families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Dixon's private schools offer that leverage the local agricultural community?
Dixon's identity as the "Heart of the Golden State" and an agricultural hub is reflected in its private school programs. St. Mary School, for instance, has integrated local agriscience themes into its curriculum and may participate in the annual Dixon May Fair. While not offering formal agricultural tracks like some larger regional schools, their science programs often emphasize environmental and life sciences relevant to the surrounding farmlands. Country High School's flexible, independent study model can allow students to pursue internships or project-based learning with local agricultural businesses, providing a unique, hands-on educational experience tied directly to the Dixon community.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Dixon, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Dixon's private schools, particularly the popular St. Mary and St. James, begins early in the calendar year. Open houses and applications for the following fall semester often occur between January and March, with priority frequently given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of the affiliated Catholic churches. Due to their smaller size and limited seats, these elementary schools can have waitlists, especially for incoming kindergarten classes. Country High School often has a more rolling admissions process due to its alternative model. It is highly advisable for Dixon parents to contact schools directly by December to request information and secure application materials.
For a family considering both public and private options in Dixon, what are the key differentiating factors in class size and community environment?
The Dixon Unified School District (DUSD) provides solid public education, but private schools in Dixon offer distinct advantages in specific areas. The most pronounced difference is class size; private schools like St. Mary and St. James typically maintain classrooms of 15-20 students, compared to public school classes that can approach 30. This allows for more individualized attention. The community environment is also distinct: the private schools foster tight-knit, values-based communities with strong parent involvement and consistent peer groups from kindergarten through 8th grade. For families seeking a structured, faith-based environment or a personalized alternative high school setting, Dixon's private schools provide a specific community choice that differs from the larger, more diverse public school system.
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