The Best Private Schools in Fort Irwin, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Fort Irwin. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Joan of Arc Catholic School
Diocese of San Bernardino
St. Joan of Arc Catholic School is a long-standing private institution serving the High Desert region, including Fort Irwin military families. With over six decades of educational excellence, the school provides a faith-based education combined with strong academic foundations. The school features a dedicated STEM lab, comprehensive fine arts program, and robust extracurricular activities. The campus includes modern classrooms, a library, computer lab, and playground facilities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and academic preparation that serves military children well during transitions.
Programs:
University Preparatory School
Independent
University Preparatory School is a highly-rated college preparatory school located in Apple Valley, approximately 45 minutes from Fort Irwin. The school offers both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs, providing rigorous academic challenges for high-achieving students. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, athletic complex, and technology-enhanced classrooms. UPS has a strong track record of college admissions and serves many military families from the Fort Irwin area. The school's comprehensive counseling program specifically addresses the unique needs of military-connected students, making it a popular choice for families seeking academic excellence with understanding of military lifestyle challenges.
Programs:
Silver Valley Academy
Independent
Silver Valley Academy is a highly-regarded private school located approximately 30 miles from Fort Irwin, serving many military families from the base. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with strong STEM programs and Advanced Placement courses. Known for its small class sizes and individualized attention, the academy provides comprehensive support for military children dealing with transitions and deployments. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic programs. Parent satisfaction is high due to the school's understanding of military family needs and strong academic outcomes.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Fort Irwin, California
What are the specific private school options available for families living on or near Fort Irwin, and how do they accommodate military families?
Fort Irwin's remote location in the Mojave Desert means private school options are limited and primarily located in the nearby town of Victorville, about 35 miles away. The schools you mentioned—Silver Valley Academy, St. Joan of Arc Catholic School, and University Preparatory School—are all in Victorville. These schools are accustomed to serving military families from Fort Irwin, often offering flexible communication for deployed parents and understanding regarding Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Transportation is a key consideration, as parents must commute, often forming carpools. It's important to contact these schools directly to discuss their specific policies for military children, including mid-year enrollment and withdrawal processes.
How does tuition for private schools serving Fort Irwin compare to the California state average, and are there any unique financial aid opportunities for military families?
Tuition for the Victorville-based private schools serving Fort Irwin is generally below the high statewide average for California, reflecting the local cost of living. Annual tuition typically ranges from approximately $6,000 to $10,000 for elementary grades. While these schools may offer need-based financial aid and parish subsidies for Catholic schools, military families should specifically inquire about scholarships for Department of Defense dependents. Additionally, exploring the use of funds from the California 529 College Savings Plan for K-12 tuition is advisable, as state law allows it. The on-post School Liaison Officer at Fort Irwin is an invaluable resource for information on potential aid programs and navigating education expenses during a military assignment.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Fort Irwin offer that might not be available in the on-post public schools?
Private schools in the Victorville area often provide distinct programs to attract families. For example, St. Joan of Arc offers a faith-based curriculum and character education. University Preparatory School emphasizes a college-prep focus with Advanced Placement (AP) pathways. Silver Valley Academy may offer smaller class sizes and individualized attention. These schools might also have more robust arts, music, or specific sports programs compared to the smaller on-post schools at Fort Irwin. A key advantage is stability; while the on-post schools are excellent, they experience very high student turnover due to military rotations. Private schools can offer a more consistent peer group and program continuity for children who will be in the area for multiple years.
What is the enrollment timeline and process like for private schools near Fort Irwin, and how should military families planning a PCS move prepare?
Enrollment timelines for Victorville private schools typically follow a standard academic calendar, with priority applications due in the winter/spring for the following fall. However, due to the transient nature of the Fort Irwin community, these schools are often experienced with mid-year enrollments. Military families should initiate contact with schools as soon as they receive orders to Fort Irwin. Key steps include requesting information packets, scheduling a virtual or in-person tour during a house-hunting trip, submitting applications promptly, and providing records from previous schools. It is critical to communicate your report date and desired start date clearly. Engaging with the Fort Irwin School Liaison Officer early can also help facilitate introductions and smooth the transition.
For families stationed at Fort Irwin, what are the primary factors to consider when choosing between the on-post public schools and a private school in Victorville?
The decision hinges on logistics, educational philosophy, and duration of stay. The on-post schools (typically part of the Silver Valley Unified School District) offer unparalleled convenience, with children able to walk or take short bus rides, and they deeply understand military life. The private school commute to Victorville adds 45-60 minutes each way to a parent's day, requiring significant time and fuel costs. Academically, on-post schools are well-regarded but face high student turnover. A private school may offer a more stable student population, specific religious instruction, or a targeted college-prep curriculum. For a short tour (1-2 years), the convenience of on-post schooling is often preferable. For a longer assignment or if a specific program is desired, the commute to a private school may be worthwhile.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities