The Best Private Schools in La Salle, Colorado
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in La Salle. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Alexander Dawson School
Independent College Preparatory School
Alexander Dawson School is an elite private institution serving the La Salle area from its campus in Lafayette, offering a world-class education through the International Baccalaureate program. Founded in 1970, the school emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), critical thinking, and global citizenship. It features state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, arts studios, and athletic complexes, along with a low student-to-teacher ratio. Highly rated for academic rigor, teacher quality, and parent satisfaction, it attracts students from across Northern Colorado for its comprehensive and innovative approach to learning.
Programs:
Fort Collins Christian School
Independent Christian School
Fort Collins Christian School provides a robust private education for students in the La Salle region, known for its academic excellence and faith-based learning environment. Founded in 1978, the school serves grades K-12 with a curriculum that integrates biblical principles into core subjects, advanced academics, and a wide range of extracurriculars like music, sports, and community service. Facilities include updated classrooms, a gymnasium, and technology resources. With high parent satisfaction and a track record of student success, it is a premier option for families seeking a balanced and rigorous education.
Programs:
Greeley Christian Schools
Independent Christian School
Greeley Christian Schools is a highly-regarded private institution serving the La Salle area with a strong academic foundation rooted in Christian values. Established in 1974, the school offers a comprehensive K-12 education with small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a focus on college preparation. The curriculum emphasizes STEM disciplines, fine arts, and athletic programs, supported by modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and sports fields. Parent satisfaction is high due to its nurturing environment, community involvement, and consistent academic outcomes, making it a top choice for families in Northern Colorado.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in La Salle, Colorado
Are there any private schools physically located within the town of La Salle, Colorado, or do families typically look to neighboring cities?
There are no private K-12 schools physically located within the town limits of La Salle, Colorado. Due to its small size, families seeking private education typically commute to schools in the surrounding Northern Colorado region. The most common destinations include schools in Greeley (like Greeley Christian Schools), Fort Collins (like Fort Collins Christian School), and the Boulder County area (like the Alexander Dawson School in Lafayette). This means transportation planning is a key consideration for La Salle residents opting for private school.
How does Colorado's school choice and funding environment impact private school tuition and financial aid for La Salle families?
Colorado has a robust public school choice system but limited direct state funding for private education, meaning tuition is primarily borne by families. For La Salle residents, tuition at nearby schools like Greeley Christian or Alexander Dawson can range significantly, often from $8,000 to over $30,000 annually. However, Colorado has an active network of private scholarship organizations, such as ACE Scholarships, which provide need-based aid to qualifying families. Additionally, many schools offer their own financial aid and sibling discounts. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from La Salle, CO, that might not be available in local public districts?
Private schools in the Northern Colorado region accessible to La Salle families often offer specialized programs that differentiate them. For example, the Alexander Dawson School is known for its experiential learning, outdoor education, and strong college preparatory curriculum. Fort Collins Christian School integrates a biblical worldview across all subjects with a focus on STEM. Greeley Christian Schools offers a comprehensive arts program and competitive athletics. These schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention than might be found in the larger public school districts serving the area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Greeley/Fort Collins area that La Salle families should be aware of?
Enrollment timelines for the top private schools near La Salle are often cyclical and begin almost a full year in advance. Most schools, like Alexander Dawson, have application deadlines in January or February for the following fall, with admission decisions released in March. The process usually includes an application, student assessments or visits, parent interviews, and records review. For La Salle families, it's critical to start research in the fall, as spaces, especially in specific grades, can be limited. Many schools also host open houses in the autumn, which require planning for the commute from La Salle.
For a family in La Salle, what are the primary factors to consider when choosing between the local public school (like in Weld County School District Re-1) and a private school in a neighboring city?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. First, evaluate the daily commute to a private school in Greeley or Fort Collins against the convenience of the local public school bus system. Second, compare the academic and extracurricular offerings: private schools may offer specific religious education or specialized programs, while public schools in the Weld Re-1 district provide a no-tuition option with their own strengths. Third, consider community and social connections—attending a local public school keeps children within their immediate neighborhood, while a private school creates a network that may be more geographically dispersed. Finally, weigh the financial commitment of tuition and transportation against your family's educational priorities.