The Best Private Schools in Highland, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Highland. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Trinity Lutheran School
Trinity Lutheran Church
Trinity Lutheran School is a highly-regarded Christian private school serving the Highland community for over seven decades. The school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence within a faith-based environment. The curriculum includes robust STEM programs, music education, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, small class sizes, and nurturing community atmosphere. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology resources, and athletic facilities, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Glen Carbon serves families from Highland with exceptional early childhood education programs. This nationally accredited preschool offers research-based curriculum focusing on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning, language development, and social-emotional growth. The school features modern, secure facilities with age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers. Highly qualified teachers provide individualized attention, and parents consistently praise the school's communication, safety protocols, and the strong academic foundation provided to young learners.
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Metro-East Lutheran High School
Metro-East Lutheran Association
Metro-East Lutheran High School serves students from Highland and surrounding communities with a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum grounded in Christian values. Located just 15 minutes from Highland in Edwardsville, this accredited high school offers advanced placement courses, a specialized STEM Academy, competitive athletics, and extensive fine arts programs. The school features modern science laboratories, technology-enhanced classrooms, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the academic rigor, character development, and college placement success of graduates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Highland, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available for families in Highland, Illinois, and what grade levels do they serve?
Highland, IL, offers a few key private school options, primarily with religious affiliations. Trinity Lutheran School provides a Christian education from preschool through 8th grade. Metro-East Lutheran High School serves students in grades 9-12 from Highland and the broader Metro-East region. The Goddard School is a nationally franchised early childhood education center offering daycare and preschool programs. The selection is more limited compared to larger metro areas, so many Highland families also consider private schools in nearby towns like Edwardsville or Belleville for additional options, particularly at the elementary and middle school levels.
How does tuition for private schools in Highland, IL, typically compare to state averages, and are there any Illinois-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition in Highland tends to be moderately priced relative to statewide private school averages, reflecting the area's cost of living. For example, area Lutheran schools often have lower tuition than comparable independent schools in Chicago suburbs. Illinois offers the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which can provide significant financial aid to eligible families. This program allows donors to receive a state tax credit for contributions to scholarship-granting organizations, which then award funds to students. It's crucial to inquire directly with schools like Metro-East Lutheran about their participation and available need-based aid or multi-child discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Highland area?
Private schools in Highland leverage their smaller size and specific missions to offer distinctive programs. Metro-East Lutheran High School emphasizes college-prep with a Christian worldview and often has strong athletics and music programs competing in the Prairie State Conference. Trinity Lutheran School integrates faith-based learning across its curriculum and may offer specialized programs in STEM or the arts. Given Highland's community focus, these schools often facilitate strong local partnerships for activities and service projects. A notable difference from larger city private schools is the deep integration with local churches and community organizations.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Highland, Illinois?
Enrollment timelines in Highland's private schools often begin in the winter (January-February) for the following academic year, especially for priority registration of existing families and church members. Open houses typically occur during this period. For schools like Trinity Lutheran, admission is generally straightforward with an application, records review, and possibly a family interview. Metro-East Lutheran High School, serving a wider region, may have a more formal process including placement testing. It's highly recommended to contact schools by early spring, as some grades (particularly preschool and kindergarten) can fill up. Rolling admission may be available if spaces remain.
For a family in Highland, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school?
The key considerations for Highland families include educational philosophy, class size, and cost. Highland Unit School District 5 is well-regarded, offering a robust public education from elementary through high school. Choosing a private school like Trinity Lutheran or Metro-East Lutheran often centers on the desire for a religious education, smaller class sizes, and a specific community environment. Parents should weigh the tuition cost against the value of the specialized mission. Transportation can also be a factor, as private schools may not provide district busing. Many families in the area value the close-knit, faith-based community that the local private schools provide, which is a distinctive feature of education in this small city.
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