The Best Private Schools in Darien, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Darien. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Benet Academy
St. Procopius Abbey
Benet Academy is a premier Catholic college preparatory high school serving Darien and the surrounding western suburbs. Founded by the Benedictine monks of St. Procopius Abbey, the school maintains a rigorous academic environment with 28 Advanced Placement courses and a 99% college acceptance rate. The 57-acre campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, Benet emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, offering comprehensive extracurricular programs including championship athletics, award-winning fine arts, and extensive service opportunities.
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The Avery Coonley School
Independent
The Avery Coonley School is an independent day school serving academically gifted students from Darien and surrounding communities from preschool through eighth grade. Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School, ACS offers an accelerated curriculum that challenges advanced learners with specialized programs in mathematics, sciences, and humanities. The school features exceptional facilities including dedicated science labs, art studios, performance spaces, and athletic fields. With small class sizes and highly qualified faculty, ACS prepares students for success at top secondary schools while fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership development.
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Nazareth Academy
Sisters of St. Joseph
Nazareth Academy is a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory high school serving Darien students and the broader western suburbs. Operated by the Sisters of St. Joseph, the school offers a challenging academic program with 23 Advanced Placement courses and specialized academies in STEM, business, and arts. The campus features modern science laboratories, technology-enhanced classrooms, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. With a commitment to developing the whole person, Nazareth provides robust extracurricular opportunities including championship athletic teams, award-winning fine arts programs, and comprehensive service learning initiatives that prepare students for college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Darien, Illinois
What are the primary private school options serving families in Darien, Illinois, and are they located within the city limits?
While Darien itself is a smaller suburb, it is served by several highly-regarded private schools in the immediate area. Notably, Benet Academy in Lisle (a 10-minute drive) is a premier Catholic, co-educational college preparatory high school. The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove is a nationally recognized independent school for gifted students in grades Pre-K through 8. Nazareth Academy, a Catholic college prep high school, is located in La Grange Park. Many Darien families also consider schools in neighboring Western Springs, Hinsdale, and other DuPage County communities. It's important to note that most top-tier private schools near Darien are located in adjacent towns, requiring consideration for transportation.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Darien, IL area compare, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid options?
Tuition in the Darien area varies significantly by school type and grade level. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect a range of approximately $15,000 to $25,000+ for day schools. Benet Academy's tuition is around $16,500, while The Avery Coonley School's tuition is higher, reflecting its independent school status and specialized programming for gifted learners. Illinois offers the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid to eligible families (based on income) to attend qualified non-public schools. This state program can substantially reduce net tuition costs. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and merit scholarships, and it's crucial to apply for aid during the admissions process.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Darien residents?
Schools in this region offer distinctive programs that attract Darien families. Benet Academy boasts a renowned STEM curriculum, extensive AP offerings, and dominant athletic programs (especially in volleyball and football) within the East Suburban Catholic Conference. The Avery Coonley School provides an accelerated, inquiry-based curriculum specifically designed for academically gifted students, with advanced coursework in math, science, and humanities starting in the early grades. Nazareth Academy offers strong college prep alongside specialized academies within the school, such as the President's Leadership Academy. Many schools also leverage their DuPage County location with partnerships with local tech firms and Argonne National Laboratory for enhanced STEM opportunities.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools near Darien, Illinois?
The timeline is critical and requires early planning. For fall admission, the process often begins 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically held September-November), submitting applications by January deadlines (often early January for schools like Avery Coonley and Benet), and completing entrance exams (such as the HSPT for Catholic high schools or specialized assessments for independent schools). Admissions decisions and financial aid awards are usually communicated in February or March. For the most sought-after schools, especially at entry-level grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 9th grade), waiting lists are common. We strongly recommend Darien families begin research and school visits the spring before they intend to apply.
For a family living in Darien with excellent public schools (Darien School District 61 and Hinsdale Township High School District 86), what are the main reasons to consider a private school?
The decision often hinges on specific educational philosophies and needs beyond the strong academics of the public system. Families in Darien may opt for private schools for: a desire for a faith-based education (Benet, Nazareth); a learning environment specifically tailored for gifted or accelerated learners (Avery Coonley); a particular focus on college preparatory rigor with a defined community ethos; or seeking smaller average class sizes and more individualized attention. The private schools in this area often have longer-established traditions, distinct alumni networks, and specialized facilities (like dedicated science labs or arts centers) that can differ from the local public offerings. It ultimately comes down to finding the best "fit" for a child's learning style and a family's values.
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