The Best Private Schools in Cedar Point, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cedar Point. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Bede Academy
Roman Catholic Diocese of Peoria
St. Bede Academy is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Cedar Point area and surrounding communities. Founded by the Benedictine Monks, the school offers a comprehensive educational experience with rigorous academic programs, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities. The 135-acre campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Known for its strong community values and high college acceptance rates, St. Bede maintains small class sizes and personalized attention for students in grades 9-12.
Programs:
Marquette Academy
Roman Catholic Diocese of Peoria
Marquette Academy is a premier Catholic educational institution serving students from Cedar Point and the Illinois Valley region. The school provides a faith-based education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The curriculum includes advanced placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and competitive athletic teams. With modern facilities and dedicated faculty, Marquette Academy maintains a tradition of academic achievement and community service, preparing students for college and beyond.
Programs:
Ottawa Elementary School - Private Section
Independent Private School
Ottawa Elementary School's private division serves families in Cedar Point and the greater Ottawa area with a focus on foundational education for young learners. The school offers a comprehensive elementary curriculum with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and social development. Small class sizes allow for individualized attention and differentiated instruction. The program includes enrichment activities, technology integration, and character education. With experienced educators and a supportive learning environment, the school has built a strong reputation for academic preparation and student success in the region.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cedar Point, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in or near Cedar Point, Illinois?
While Cedar Point itself is a small village, families in the area primarily look to nearby towns for private education. The most prominent options include St. Bede Academy in Peru (a co-ed, Catholic, college-prep high school), Marquette Academy in Ottawa (a Catholic, PreK-12 school), and the private section of Ottawa Elementary School. These schools serve the broader Starved Rock Country region, with many Cedar Point families commuting. There are no private schools physically located within Cedar Point's village limits, so transportation is a key consideration.
How does the tuition at private schools like St. Bede Academy and Marquette Academy compare, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid options?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, high school tuition at St. Bede Academy is approximately $9,000-$10,000, while Marquette Academy's high school tuition is around $8,000-$9,000. Elementary grades are typically lower. Importantly, Illinois offers the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid to eligible families (based on income) to attend private schools. Both schools actively participate in this program. Additionally, all three schools offer parish subsidies for active Catholic families, multi-child discounts, and need-based financial aid through their own foundations, making private education more accessible for Illinois residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Cedar Point, IL, area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Schools like St. Bede Academy and Marquette Academy leverage their religious identity and smaller size to offer distinctive programs. St. Bede features a renowned engineering and STEM partnership program, a competitive scholastic bowl team, and a strong focus on fine arts. Marquette Academy offers a dedicated agriculture program, reflecting the region's rural character, and a 1:1 technology initiative. Both provide daily theology classes, community service requirements, and character education rooted in Catholic values—elements not found in the public school curriculum. Their small class sizes allow for more individualized attention compared to larger regional public high schools.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for families in Cedar Point seeking to enter their child at a private school like Marquette Academy?
The enrollment process for the Ottawa and Peru area private schools typically begins in January for the following fall. For Marquette Academy, the process involves: 1) Attending an open house (usually held in late fall/early winter), 2) Submitting an application by February/March, 3) Providing records from the previous school, 4) For new families, a family interview or student shadow day may be required. Priority is often given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of supporting Catholic churches. Given the limited seats, especially in popular grades, Cedar Point families are advised to initiate contact by November to ensure they meet all deadlines and requirements.
For a family in Cedar Point deciding between the local public school district (e.g., Putnam County CUSD 535) and a private academy, what are the key logistical and community factors to consider?
The decision hinges on several Cedar Point-specific factors. Logistically, the public district provides bus transportation within its boundaries, while attending a private school in Ottawa or Peru requires parents to arrange daily commuting (a 20-30 minute drive). Academically, the private schools offer a consistent, values-based environment from PreK through 12th grade, whereas public students may transition between different district buildings. Community-wise, the private schools foster tight-knit, faith-based communities with extensive parental involvement and alumni networks deeply rooted in the Illinois Valley. The public district offers the advantage of attending school with immediate neighbors and a broader range of tax-funded extracurriculars. Ultimately, it's a choice between geographic convenience and a specific mission-driven education.