The Best Private Schools in Cameron, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cameron. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Peoria Academy
Independent School
Peoria Academy is a premier independent private school located approximately 45 miles from Cameron, serving families throughout the region since 1949. As an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme, the school provides an internationally-recognized education focused on inquiry-based learning and global perspectives. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creative expression, and character development across all grade levels from Pre-K through 8th grade. The 25-acre campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, art studios, performance spaces, and extensive outdoor learning environments. The school is particularly noted for its strong arts integration, environmental education programs, and commitment to developing well-rounded, socially responsible students.
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St. Mary's School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Peoria
St. Mary's School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school located just 10 miles from Cameron in Monmouth. Founded in 1929, this established institution offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning combined with rigorous academics. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes STEM education, language arts, religious studies, and comprehensive arts programs. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent academic preparation for high school. The campus includes modern classrooms, a library, computer lab, and gymnasium facilities.
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Costa Catholic Academy
Independent Catholic School
Located approximately 25 miles from Cameron in Galesburg, Costa Catholic Academy has been providing exceptional private education since 1979. This accredited Catholic school serves students from Pre-K through 8th grade with a comprehensive academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, moral development, and college preparatory skills. The school features advanced mathematics and science programs, Spanish language instruction starting in elementary grades, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities. Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, a full gymnasium, and outdoor recreational areas. Parent reviews highlight the school's strong community atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and excellent student outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cameron, Illinois
What are the specific private school options available for families residing in Cameron, Illinois, and are there transportation services provided?
For families in Cameron, IL, the primary private school options in the immediate area include St. Mary's School (K-8, Catholic) in nearby Bushnell and Costa Catholic Academy (PreK-8, Catholic) in Galesburg. Peoria Academy (PreK-8, independent) is located further away in Peoria. It is important to note that Cameron itself is a very small village, so most private schools are in surrounding communities. Transportation services vary significantly; most do not provide district-style busing from Cameron. St. Mary's and Costa Catholic may have established carpool networks, while attendance at Peoria Academy would require a substantial daily commute. Parents should contact each school directly to inquire about any possible transportation arrangements or regional bus services.
How does tuition at private schools serving the Cameron, IL area compare, and what financial aid or Illinois state programs are available to help with costs?
Tuition for schools serving the Cameron area varies. For the 2024-25 year, parish-supported Catholic schools like St. Mary's and Costa Catholic typically have lower tuition, often ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 annually for parishioners. Independent Peoria Academy's tuition is significantly higher, comparable to other regional independents. Illinois offers two key programs to assist families: 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 you to claim a credit for a portion of qualified education expenses. Availability of the tax credit scholarship depends on funding and is administered by Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) partnered with each school.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Cameron, IL, that differ from the local public school offerings?
Private schools accessible from Cameron offer distinct programs tailored to their missions. Costa Catholic Academy in Galesburg emphasizes a faith-based curriculum integrated with STEM and fine arts. St. Mary's School offers a strong, traditional Catholic education with a focus on community service. Peoria Academy, as an independent school, provides a progressive, inquiry-based education (International Baccalaureate candidate school) with world languages starting in preschool and a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning. These programs often have smaller class sizes than regional public schools, allowing for more individualized attention. In contrast, local public schools may offer more extensive athletic programs or specific vocational tracks due to larger student populations.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary's or Costa Catholic for a family moving to Cameron?
The enrollment process for Catholic schools in the region generally begins in January for the following academic year, with priority often given to existing families and parish members. For families new to Cameron looking at St. Mary's or Costa Catholic, the first step is to contact the school office directly, as rolling admission may be possible if spaces are available. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, a pastoral reference (for Catholic families), and often a family interview or student assessment. It is highly recommended to initiate contact as early as possible, even mid-year, due to the small size of these schools and limited seats per grade. Visiting the school and connecting with the local parish (if applicable) are also crucial steps.
For a family in rural Cameron, IL, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school in a neighboring town?
The major considerations are commute, community integration, cost, and educational philosophy. The Cameron public school district is part of a consolidated unit (likely United School District), providing a local, centralized community hub with no tuition costs and minimal transportation hassle. Choosing a private school in Bushnell, Galesburg, or Peoria involves a daily commute of 20-45 minutes, adding significant time and transportation costs. However, private schools offer specific religious or pedagogical approaches not available in the public system. Families must weigh the value of that specific education against the practicalities of distance, the potential for children to be schooled outside their immediate residential community, and the financial investment including tuition, fees, and fuel.