The Best Private Schools in Armington, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Armington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Peoria Academy
Independent
Peoria Academy is a highly-regarded independent school serving central Illinois with a progressive, student-centered approach. The school offers an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness. With small class sizes averaging 12-15 students, the school provides individualized attention and strong teacher-student relationships. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school serves students from preschool through 8th grade and attracts families from throughout the region including Armington.
Programs:
Central Catholic High School
Diocese of Peoria
Central Catholic High School is a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory school serving students from across central Illinois. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 16 Advanced Placement courses, a dedicated STEM academy, and comprehensive fine arts programs. With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, students receive personalized attention and strong college counseling. The campus features modern academic facilities, science and technology labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The school has a strong tradition of academic excellence and serves many families from rural communities including Armington.
Programs:
St. Joseph Catholic School
Diocese of Peoria
St. Joseph Catholic School provides a comprehensive faith-based education from preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout Tazewell County and surrounding areas. The school emphasizes academic excellence within a supportive Christian community, offering strong foundational programs in mathematics, language arts, and science. The curriculum includes daily religious education, Spanish instruction, music, art, and physical education. The school features updated classrooms, technology integration, and a family-oriented atmosphere that attracts students from Armington and other nearby communities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Armington, Illinois
What are the realistic private school options for a family living in Armington, Illinois, given that the top schools are located in nearby Peoria?
While Armington itself is a small rural community, families typically look to the greater Peoria area, approximately a 20-30 minute commute, for private school options. The most accessible and notable schools include Peoria Academy (independent, PreK-8), Central Catholic High School (Catholic, 9-12), and St. Joseph Catholic School (Catholic, PreK-8). Transportation is a key consideration, as most families in Armington must provide their own. Some schools may offer limited bus routes that extend to surrounding towns, so it's essential to inquire directly. Exploring these Peoria-based schools is the standard path for Armington residents seeking private education.
How does Illinois' Tax Credit Scholarship Program impact tuition affordability for Armington families considering private schools in Peoria?
Illinois' Invest in Kids Act offers significant financial relief through tax credit scholarships, which is highly relevant for Armington families. This program provides scholarships for eligible students to attend qualified private schools, like Central Catholic or St. Joseph, based on household income. Since the schools are in Peoria but serve the region, Armington residents can apply. The application is separate from school admission and has its own deadlines, typically in the spring. It's crucial to apply early, as funds are limited. This state-specific program can make private school tuition in the Peoria area substantially more accessible for qualifying families in the Armington community.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are available at private schools serving Armington students that leverage the resources of the Peoria area?
Private schools in the Peoria area offer programs that benefit from their urban setting while serving students from communities like Armington. Central Catholic High School provides robust STEM pathways and partnerships with local industries and hospitals for internships. Peoria Academy emphasizes global education and project-based learning, often utilizing Peoria's museums and cultural centers. St. Joseph Catholic School integrates faith-based learning with strong arts programs. A unique advantage for Armington students is the contrast between their rural home environment and access to these enriched, resource-intensive programs in a nearby city, offering a well-rounded educational experience.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for a student from Armington applying to a Peoria-area private school like Peoria Academy or Central Catholic?
The timeline is critical due to the competitive nature of these regional schools. For fall admission, the process typically begins in the preceding September-October with open houses. Applications for schools like Peoria Academy and Central Catholic are usually due between January and February. Entrance exams or assessments for middle and high school are often scheduled for January. Financial aid and scholarship applications (including the state tax credit scholarship) must be submitted concurrently. As an Armington resident, it's advisable to schedule a visit and interview early, as schools may consider geographic diversity and commitment given the commute. Decisions and contracts are typically issued in March.
For an Armington family, what are the key factors when comparing the local public school district with commuting to a private school in Peoria?
The decision hinges on several Armington-specific factors. The local Armington school district is part of a small, close-knit community with no commute. In contrast, private schools in Peoria offer broader academic choices, specialized programs, and often smaller class sizes, but require a significant daily commute (impacting family schedules and costs). Financially, you must weigh property taxes funding the public district against private tuition, potentially offset by Illinois scholarships. Culturally, it involves choosing between a consolidated rural school environment and a more diverse, urban-centric private school setting. Many families value the private school community but must realistically assess the long-term commitment to transportation.