The Best Private Schools in Catlin, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Catlin. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Countryside School
Independent Private School
Countryside School is a highly-rated independent private school serving families from Catlin and the broader East Central Illinois region. Founded on progressive educational principles, the school emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning in small classroom settings. The curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. The campus features extensive outdoor learning spaces, art studios, and technology-integrated classrooms. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, Countryside provides personalized attention and has a strong track record of preparing students for competitive high schools and colleges. The school community is known for its inclusive environment and strong parent involvement.
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The High School of Saint Thomas More
Diocese of Peoria Catholic Schools
The High School of Saint Thomas More is a premier Catholic college preparatory high school serving students from Catlin and surrounding communities. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 18 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM curriculum. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. Students consistently achieve exceptional academic results with average ACT scores significantly above state and national averages. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and offers robust extracurricular programs including championship athletics, fine arts, and numerous clubs and organizations focused on leadership development and community service.
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Schlarman Academy
Diocese of Peoria Catholic Schools
Schlarman Academy is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Catlin and greater Vermilion County area. With over 75 years of educational excellence, the school offers a comprehensive PreK-12 program with strong emphasis on academic rigor, faith formation, and character development. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. Students consistently achieve above-average ACT scores and maintain high college acceptance rates to prestigious universities. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities including championship athletic programs, performing arts, and community service opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Catlin, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Catlin, Illinois?
For families in the Catlin, IL area, the main private school options include Schlarman Academy (a Catholic PK-12 school in nearby Danville), Countryside School (a private elementary school in Champaign), and The High School of Saint Thomas More (a Catholic high school in Champaign). It's important to note that Catlin itself is a small village, so most private school options are located in the surrounding larger communities of Danville and Champaign-Urbana, typically requiring a commute. These schools offer religious and independent education alternatives to the local Catlin public school district.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Catlin, IL area compare, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition in the Catlin area varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 school year, Schlarman Academy's tuition ranges from approximately $5,000 to $7,000, while The High School of Saint Thomas More is around $9,000. Countryside School, as an independent elementary, may be higher. A key Illinois-specific financial aid resource is the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, funded by donations to Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). This program provides need-based scholarships for qualifying families to attend private schools. Additionally, all the local Catholic schools offer parish subsidies and need-based aid through their diocesan foundations.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Catlin students offer?
Private schools accessible to Catlin families provide distinct programs not always available in smaller public districts. Schlarman Academy offers a strong STEM curriculum and is part of the Diocese of Peoria's Catholic school system. The High School of Saint Thomas More is renowned for its college-preparatory "STMC 200" curriculum, robust athletics, and numerous clubs. Countryside School emphasizes progressive, student-centered education with small class sizes. A significant advantage for high school students is the ability to take dual-credit courses through Danville Area Community College or the University of Illinois, enhancing college readiness.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Schlarman Academy that serve Catlin residents?
The enrollment process for schools like Schlarman Academy and Saint Thomas More typically begins in January or February for the following academic year. It is crucial to apply early, as spaces, particularly in lower grades, can be limited. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall. For Catholic schools, priority is often given to active parishioners and siblings of current students. Families from Catlin should directly contact the admissions office of each school to schedule a visit and obtain specific deadline information.
For a family in Catlin, what are the main considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school in Danville or Champaign?
The decision hinges on several Catlin-specific factors. Catlin residents are served by Catlin CUSD #5, a small, close-knit public school system. Choosing a private school like Schlarman or STMC involves committing to a daily commute to Danville or Champaign (15-30+ minutes). This offers a different community environment, often with a religious foundation, and potentially more specialized academic tracks. The private options may have larger student bodies drawn from a wider region, providing different social and extracurricular opportunities. Parents must weigh the financial investment, commute time, desired class size, and educational philosophy against the convenience and community connection of the local public school.
Private Education Insights
Discover Top Private Middle Schools in Catlin, IL: A Parent's Guide
For parents in Catlin, Illinois, the search for "private middle schools near me" is often driven by a desire for a specific educational environment during these pivotal years. The transition from elementary to high school is significant, and finding a school that provides strong academics, character development, and a supportive community is paramount. While Catlin itself is a smaller community, families here benefit from being within a reasonable distance of several well-regarded private institutions that offer dedicated middle school programs, each with its own distinct philosophy and strengths.
Your local search will likely begin with Schlarman Academy in nearby Danville. As a Pre-K through 12th grade Catholic school, Schlarman offers a continuous educational pathway, which can be a tremendous comfort for families seeking stability. Their middle school program is designed to bridge the gap between foundational learning and the rigors of high school, emphasizing faith, service, and academic preparedness. For Catlin families, the commute to Danville is straightforward, and the school’s commitment to forming well-rounded individuals aligns with the values of many in our community. Another excellent option within the broader Champaign-Urbana area is The High School of Saint Thomas More, which, despite its name, includes a junior high program for grades 7 and 8. This program is highly academic and serves as a direct feeder into their renowned college-preparatory high school. The focus here is on cultivating intellectual curiosity and moral integrity, preparing students not just for high school, but for lifelong learning.
You may also explore the Countryside School in Champaign, a private independent school serving students from age 3 through 8th grade. Their middle school curriculum is progressive and student-centered, often appealing to families seeking an alternative to a traditional or religious-based education. The smaller class sizes and project-based learning can be particularly effective for middle schoolers who thrive with hands-on engagement and personalized attention. The drive from Catlin is a consideration, but for the right educational fit, many families find it worthwhile. When evaluating these options, consider the daily logistics. Factor in drive times along routes like I-74 and US-150, especially during Illinois winters. Visiting each campus is crucial; schedule a tour to feel the culture, meet teachers, and see students in action. Ask specific questions about how they support the social and emotional challenges unique to early adolescence, not just their academic track record.
Ultimately, the best answer to "private middle schools near me" for your family in Catlin will balance educational philosophy, community values, and practical logistics. The schools in our region offer diverse approaches—from faith-based to independent—all within a manageable radius. Investing time now to find the right middle school environment can set your child on a path of confidence and success, providing a solid foundation for the high school years and beyond. Start the conversation with your child about what feels important to them in a school, and reach out to these local institutions to discover which one feels like the right next step for your family’s journey.