The Best Private Schools in Roberts, Idaho
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Roberts. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Sycamore School
Private Independent School
The Sycamore School is a private independent school serving families from Roberts and surrounding communities who seek alternative educational approaches. The school combines Montessori principles with project-based learning in a nurturing environment. With small multi-age classrooms and individualized instruction, students develop strong academic foundations while pursuing personal interests. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor education, and arts integration. Located approximately 30 minutes from Roberts, the school attracts families seeking personalized education with strong community values and academic excellence.
Programs:
Compass Academy
Compass Public Charter School
Compass Academy is a highly-regarded public charter school serving students from Roberts and the greater eastern Idaho region. The school emphasizes innovative, project-based learning with strong STEM integration and real-world application. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized learning plans, and a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. The school's internship program connects high school students with local businesses and industries, providing valuable workforce experience. Compass Academy consistently ranks among Idaho's top schools for academic achievement and student engagement.
Programs:
Madison High School
Madison School District 321
Madison High School serves students from Roberts and surrounding communities in eastern Idaho. As a comprehensive public high school with strong academic programs, it offers rigorous college preparatory courses alongside extensive CTE pathways. The school features modern facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. With a focus on student success, Madison provides numerous Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and robust extracurricular activities that attract families from the Roberts area seeking quality education options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Roberts, Idaho
What are the private school options for families living in or near Roberts, Idaho?
Roberts itself is a very small, rural community, so there are no private schools physically located within the town limits. However, families in Roberts typically look to neighboring cities for private education. The closest and most notable options include Madison High School (a private Christian school) in Rexburg, Compass Academy (a public charter school, which is a tuition-free alternative to traditional public schools) in Idaho Falls, and The Sycamore School (a private Montessori school) also in Idaho Falls. Most require a commute of 20-30 minutes into Idaho Falls or Rexburg. This regional approach is common for private education in Eastern Idaho.
How does tuition for private schools near Roberts, ID, compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Idaho Falls/Rexburg area serving Roberts families is generally below the national private school average but aligns with regional costs. For the 2024-2025 school year, area private schools like Madison High School may have tuition ranging from $5,000 to $8,000 annually. Idaho offers the "Idaho Empowerment Scholarship," a state-funded program that provides scholarships for eligible students to attend private schools, which can significantly offset costs. Additionally, most private schools in the region offer their own need-based financial aid and sibling discounts. It's crucial to apply for both the state scholarship and institutional aid early.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving the Roberts area offer that local public schools may not?
Private schools in the region provide specialized educational models that attract families from Roberts. For example, The Sycamore School offers an authentic Montessori curriculum for younger children, emphasizing hands-on, individualized learning. Madison High School provides a college-preparatory curriculum integrated with Christian values and worldview. While Compass Academy is a public charter, its project-based learning model is a popular alternative. These schools often have smaller class sizes than the larger public school districts (like Bonneville Joint School District 93) and can offer unique focuses, such as stronger arts integration or specific religious education, which may not be as available in the rural public schools directly in Roberts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Roberts, Idaho?
The enrollment process for private schools in Eastern Idaho is highly time-sensitive. Most schools, like Madison High School and The Sycamore School, begin accepting applications in January or February for the following fall, with priority deadlines often by March. Many have rolling admissions after that until seats are filled. The process usually involves a submitted application, student records, teacher recommendations, a family interview, and sometimes student assessment. For families in Roberts, it's critical to plan for the commute and inquire about transportation options, as most schools do not provide bus service from outlying areas. Applying for the Idaho Empowerment Scholarship has a separate state deadline, typically in the spring.
For a family in Roberts, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school in Idaho Falls or Rexburg?
The decision hinges on several Roberts-specific factors. First is **commute**: attending a private school means a daily drive to Idaho Falls or Rexburg, impacting family logistics and extracurricular participation. Second is **educational philosophy**: Roberts' public schools are part of a rural district, while private options offer distinct models (Montessori, faith-based, etc.). Third is **cost**: Public schools are free, while private requires tuition, though the Idaho Empowerment Scholarship can help. Fourth is **community**: Your child may build a friend group outside their immediate neighborhood. Finally, consider **class size and offerings**: Rural public schools may have limited advanced or specialty courses compared to larger private institutions. Visiting both the local Roberts school and the private options is essential to feel the difference.