The Best Private Schools in Castleford, Idaho
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Castleford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Twin Falls Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Twin Falls Christian Academy is a highly regarded private school offering a comprehensive K-12 education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and Christian values. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a dedicated faculty that fosters individualized learning. Programs include advanced STEM courses, competitive athletics, and vibrant fine arts programs. Parent satisfaction is high due to its rigorous curriculum and supportive community environment, making it a top choice for families in the Castleford area.
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St. Edward's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Boise
St. Edward's Catholic School provides a nurturing, faith-based education from Pre-K through 8th grade, known for its strong academic foundation and character development. The school boasts well-maintained facilities, including technology-enhanced classrooms and dedicated art and music spaces. With a focus on holistic education, it integrates faith, academics, and extracurricular activities, earning high parent satisfaction for its committed teachers and family-oriented atmosphere. It serves Castleford and surrounding communities with a proven track record of student success.
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Grace Lutheran School
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Grace Lutheran School offers a Christ-centered education for Pre-K through 8th grade, emphasizing academic rigor and spiritual growth. The school features updated facilities, including science labs and playgrounds, and provides a well-rounded curriculum with strengths in music, athletics, and technology. Highly rated for its caring staff and safe learning environment, it has a long history of serving families in the Castleford region with a focus on developing responsible, well-rounded students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Castleford, Idaho
What are the private school options for families living in Castleford, Idaho, and do any offer transportation from our area?
Castleford itself is a very small community without a private school campus within its town limits. Therefore, families typically look to nearby Twin Falls, approximately 25 miles away. The primary options include Twin Falls Christian Academy (interdenominational Christian, K-12), St. Edward's Catholic School (Catholic, Pre-K-8), and Grace Lutheran School (Lutheran, Pre-K-8). It is crucial to contact each school directly regarding transportation; most do not provide standard bus routes from Castleford, so carpooling or private arrangements are common. The commute is a significant daily consideration for Castleford residents seeking private education.
How does tuition at private schools near Castleford, Idaho, compare to the state average, and are there any Idaho-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for the schools serving Castleford families is generally below the national private school average but aligns with southern Idaho's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $5,000 to $8,000 annually for elementary grades. Idaho offers the "Idaho Opportunity Scholarship" for high school graduates, but for K-12, the most relevant program is the "Idaho Education Tax Deduction." This allows parents to deduct up to $4,118 per student, per year, for tuition and other educational expenses paid to an Idaho private school on their state income taxes, providing meaningful relief. Each school also has its own need-based financial aid and sometimes sibling discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Castleford, ID, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools near Castleford offer distinct programs shaped by their missions. Twin Falls Christian Academy provides a college-prep curriculum with dual-credit courses through partnerships with local colleges and a strong emphasis on fine arts. St. Edward's Catholic School integrates faith throughout the day and may offer Spanish language instruction at younger grades. Grace Lutheran School often features small, multi-grade classrooms that allow for personalized pacing and strong community bonds. All three emphasize character and religious education, which is not part of the public school curriculum in the Castleford/Twin Falls area. Extracurriculars like competitive sports or music may be more limited in scope compared to larger public high schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Twin Falls Christian Academy for a family moving to Castleford?
The enrollment process for schools serving the Castleford area often begins in January or February for the following fall, with priority given to re-enrolling students and siblings. For new families, especially those relocating, it is recommended to initiate contact as soon as your plans are firm, even if it's outside the standard window. The process typically involves: 1) a campus tour and meeting with administration, 2) submission of an application with fees, 3) providing past academic records, and 4) a family or student interview. For upper grades at Twin Falls Christian Academy, placement testing may be required. Due to limited space in some grades, early application is advised, but mid-year enrollment is often possible if space exists.
For a Castleford resident, what are the key factors to consider when choosing between the local public school and commuting to a private school in Twin Falls?
The decision hinges on several Castleford-specific factors. First, evaluate the daily commute (50+ miles roundtrip) for its impact on family time, fuel costs, and winter driving conditions on Highway 30. Second, consider educational philosophy: Castleford's public school offers a close-knit, rural community environment, while private options provide religious education and often smaller class sizes. Third, assess program offerings: Castleford School (K-12) may have limitations in advanced coursework or specialized electives compared to a larger private school like TFCA. Finally, consider cost versus value: weigh the tuition and commute expenses against the perceived benefits of a faith-based curriculum and specific academic focus. Visiting both your local public school and the private options is essential for a direct comparison.