The Best Private Schools in Kingston, Idaho
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kingston. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Rita's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Boise
St. Rita's Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the Silver Valley region including Kingston. As the only Catholic school in the area, it offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with strong emphasis on faith-based learning, academic excellence, and character development. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, science labs, music programs, and competitive sports. Families from Kingston appreciate the safe, nurturing environment and the school's commitment to developing the whole child spiritually, academically, and socially.
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Riverbend Academy
Independent Christian School
Riverbend Academy is a highly-rated Christian private school serving families throughout North Idaho, including those from Kingston who commute for quality education. The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum integrated with Christian values and biblical worldview. Features include advanced placement courses, comprehensive fine arts programs, competitive athletics, and state-of-the-art facilities. With small class sizes and highly qualified teachers, Riverbend Academy provides personalized attention and strong academic outcomes. The school's commitment to developing students spiritually, academically, and socially makes it a top choice for families seeking comprehensive private education in the region.
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Mountain View Alternative High School
Independent
Mountain View Alternative High School serves students throughout the Silver Valley, including those from Kingston who seek personalized educational approaches. This established private alternative school provides individualized instruction, credit recovery programs, and career technical education pathways. The school is known for its supportive environment and dedicated staff who work closely with students to overcome academic challenges. With strong community connections and flexible learning options, it has built a reputation for helping students succeed who may not thrive in traditional educational settings, making it a valuable option for Kingston families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kingston, Idaho
What are the specific private school options available for K-12 students in Kingston, Idaho, and what are their educational approaches?
In Kingston, Idaho, full-time private school options are limited and primarily serve specific grade ranges. St. Rita's Catholic School is a prominent K-8 institution offering a faith-based, traditional academic curriculum. For high school students, Mountain View Alternative High School provides a private, alternative educational setting, while Riverbend Academy offers another private high school option. It's important for Kingston parents to note that there is no single private K-12 campus; transitioning from St. Rita's after 8th grade requires moving to one of the local high school options or considering boarding schools in larger Idaho cities. Many families in the area also consider online private academies to supplement local choices.
How does tuition at Kingston, Idaho private schools compare to the state average, and are there any Idaho-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition at Kingston's private schools is generally below the national average but aligns with rural Idaho costs. St. Rita's Catholic School, for example, has a more accessible tuition structure due to parish subsidies. Idaho offers the "Idaho Opportunity Scholarship" for high school graduates, but for K-12 aid, the most significant program is the "Idalo Empowerment Scholarship," a tax-credit scholarship available to eligible families statewide, including those in Kingston. This can help offset private school costs. Additionally, some schools offer sibling discounts and need-based financial aid directly. It's advisable to contact each school's administration, as localized payment plans and parish support for St. Rita's can further reduce the net cost for Kingston residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Kingston, Idaho, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in Kingston, Idaho, often integrate the region's natural landscape and rural community values into their programs. Riverbend Academy and Mountain View Alternative High School may utilize project-based learning connected to local forestry, agriculture, or outdoor recreation, which are central to North Idaho's economy. St. Rita's Catholic School incorporates community service projects within the small town of Kingston and the surrounding Shoshone County. Given the limited resources of a small town, these schools often emphasize strong, personalized teacher-student relationships and may partner with local businesses for vocational insights. However, specialized programs like advanced STEM labs or extensive language offerings are less common than in urban Idaho private schools, making supplemental activities important.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Kingston, Idaho, and are there waitlists?
Enrollment timelines in Kingston's private schools are often rolling due to the small population, but they generally follow an annual cycle. St. Rita's Catholic School typically opens registration for the next academic year in early spring, with priority given to parish members and siblings of current students. For the private high schools, enrollment can often occur at any semester break, aligning with their alternative education models. Given the limited seats, especially at St. Rita's, it is possible for grades to fill up, creating a waitlist. The process usually involves a school tour, application submission, student assessment (for St. Rita's), and an interview with parents. Kingston parents are advised to initiate inquiries by January-February for the best chance at securing a spot for the fall.
For a family in Kingston, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (Kellogg School District) and a private school?
The key considerations for Kingston families include educational philosophy, class size, and logistics. The public Kellogg School District provides a comprehensive K-12 pathway, transportation, and no tuition. In contrast, private options like St. Rita's offer smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), a structured religious education, and a tight-knit community, but require tuition and personal transportation, as no district bussing is provided. The private high schools (Mountain View, Riverbend) are often chosen for students who need an alternative, flexible environment different from the larger Kellogg High School. For Kingston residents, the daily commute to these schools in the Kellogg/Silver Valley area is a practical factor. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether a family values a specific religious or alternative pedagogical approach enough to undertake the financial and logistical commitments.