Private Schools in Cortland, Illinois

Westminster Christian School is a highly-regarded private Christian school serving the broader northern Illinois region, including Cortland area families. Established in 1976, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The campus features modern STEM labs, performing arts facilities, and athletic complexes. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and offers extensive extracurricular programs including competitive sports, robotics, and fine arts. Parent reviews consistently praise the rigorous academics, supportive community environment, and strong college placement record.

St. Mary School in DeKalb is one of the oldest and most established private schools serving the Cortland area, with a history dating back to 1861. The school provides a faith-based education with strong academic foundations, featuring technology-integrated classrooms and advanced mathematics programs. The school serves students from preschool through 8th grade and is known for its tight-knit community atmosphere and dedicated faculty. Facilities include modern classrooms, a STEM lab, and gymnasium. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its academic rigor, safe environment, and strong moral foundation that prepares students for high school success.

St. Mary School in Sycamore is another highly-rated Catholic school serving families in the Cortland region. Founded in 1858, the school has a long tradition of academic excellence within a faith-based environment. The curriculum emphasizes strong foundational skills in reading and mathematics, with specialized intervention programs to support diverse learning needs. The school features updated technology resources, music and art programs, and before/after school care. Parent reviews highlight the caring teachers, strong community involvement, and comprehensive education that effectively prepares students for their transition to local high schools. The school maintains an active parent-teacher organization and numerous family engagement opportunities.