The Best Private Schools in Bolingbrook, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Bolingbrook. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Naperville Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Naperville Christian Academy provides a classical Christian education serving families from Bolingbrook and the western suburbs. The school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade program emphasizing integrated learning, critical thinking, and character development. Their curriculum includes advanced mathematics, laboratory sciences, humanities, and extensive fine arts programs. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. NCA maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and emphasizes college preparation with graduates regularly accepted to top universities.
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Benet Academy
St. Procopius Abbey
Benet Academy is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory high school serving the Bolingbrook area and surrounding communities. Founded by St. Procopius Abbey, the school maintains a strong academic reputation with 99% of graduates attending four-year colleges. The 57-acre campus features modern academic facilities, extensive athletic complexes, and dedicated arts spaces. Benet offers a rigorous curriculum with 24 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and competitive athletic teams that regularly compete at state levels. The school emphasizes character development and community service alongside academic excellence.
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Science & Technology Academy
Indian Prairie School District 204
The Science & Technology Academy is a highly selective public magnet school serving gifted students from Bolingbrook and surrounding communities. As part of Indian Prairie School District 204, STA offers an accelerated STEM-focused curriculum for grades 5-12. The program emphasizes scientific research, advanced mathematics, engineering, and technology with state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. Students participate in original research projects, compete in national science competitions, and benefit from partnerships with local universities and corporations. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates frequently pursuing STEM degrees at prestigious institutions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Bolingbrook, Illinois
What are the primary private school options serving families in Bolingbrook, Illinois, and are they located within the village itself?
While Bolingbrook has several high-quality public schools, most of the top-rated private schools are located in neighboring communities but actively serve Bolingbrook residents. Notable options include Benet Academy in Lisle (a premier Catholic, co-ed college preparatory high school), Naperville Christian Academy in Naperville (a non-denominational Christian school for grades K-12), and the Science & Technology Academy in Aurora (a magnet private school focusing on STEM). There are also local Catholic elementary schools like St. Dominic in Bolingbrook and St. Francis of Assisi in Naperville that feed into Benet. Transportation is a key consideration, as most require parent-provided travel or private bus services.
How does tuition for private schools in the Bolingbrook, IL area compare, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition in the Bolingbrook area varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $6,000-$12,000 for elementary grades at local parochial schools and $15,000-$20,000+ for high schools like Benet Academy. Illinois offers two key financial aid programs: the **Invest in Kids Act Tax Credit Scholarship**, which provides need-based scholarships funded by private donations, and the **Illinois K-12 Education Expense Tax Credit**, which allows families to claim a credit for qualified education expenses. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Bolingbrook students?
Private schools in the region provide specialized programs that leverage their independent curricula. Benet Academy is renowned for its rigorous academics, extensive AP course offerings, and dominant athletic programs (particularly in volleyball and basketball). Naperville Christian Academy integrates a biblical worldview across all subjects and offers strong fine arts. The Science & Technology Academy (STA) provides a unique, project-based STEM curriculum with advanced research opportunities not commonly found in standard public school tracks. For Bolingbrook families interested in a specific focus—be it faith-based education, competitive college prep, or intensive STEM—these schools offer distinct pathways that may not be as concentrated in the local public district.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools like Benet Academy for Bolingbrook residents?
The process for schools like Benet Academy begins over a year in advance. For 9th-grade enrollment, families should attend open houses in the fall (September-October) of the student's 7th grade year. The application for Benet typically opens in August of 8th grade and has a deadline in early November. A critical component is the **High School Placement Test (HSPT)**, usually taken in November or December. Admissions decisions are released in February. For Bolingbrook students coming from public or non-feeder Catholic elementary schools, securing strong teacher recommendations and a robust academic record is essential due to competitive seats. Siblings and children of alumni receive priority, but many seats are open for qualified applicants.
For a family living in Bolingbrook, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local public schools (Valley View SD 365U) and a private school option?
The decision hinges on several Bolingbrook-specific factors. **Transportation and Commute:** Valley View public schools provide busing, while private schools often require a significant daily commute to Lisle, Naperville, or Aurora. **Cost vs. Investment:** Public schools are tax-funded, whereas private tuition is an out-of-pocket expense, though financial aid can offset this. **Educational Approach:** Valley View offers a solid, comprehensive education with diverse programs. Private options provide specific environments: Benet's intense college-prep culture, a faith-based community at NCA, or a dedicated STEM focus at STA. **Extracurriculars:** Bolingbrook public high schools have large, competitive athletic and arts programs. Private schools like Benet offer a different scale, often with high-level competition in specific sports. Visiting both types of schools is crucial to gauge the community and fit for your child.
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