The Best Private Schools in Itasca, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Itasca. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Avery Coonley School
Independent
The Avery Coonley School is a nationally recognized independent school serving gifted students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Located just 15 minutes from Itasca, ACS offers an accelerated curriculum that challenges academically advanced students. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, technology centers, and performing arts spaces. With small class sizes and highly qualified faculty, the school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and character development. The rigorous academic program is complemented by extensive extracurricular opportunities in athletics, arts, and leadership development.
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St. Walter School
Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools
St. Walter School provides a comprehensive Catholic education from preschool through 8th grade, serving families in Itasca and surrounding communities. The school offers a balanced curriculum that integrates faith formation with academic excellence, featuring dedicated STEM labs, art programs, and Spanish language instruction from early grades. The campus includes modern classrooms, a gymnasium, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. With strong parent involvement and community spirit, St. Walter emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement, preparing students for success in high school and beyond.
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Immaculate Conception Grade School
Diocese of Joliet Catholic Schools
Immaculate Conception Grade School offers a classical Catholic education for students in preschool through 8th grade, serving the Elmhurst area and drawing families from Itasca. The school provides a rigorous academic foundation rooted in Catholic traditions while incorporating modern educational practices. Features include comprehensive music and arts programs, competitive athletics, and technology integration across all grade levels. The school community is known for its strong family engagement and commitment to developing well-rounded students who excel academically, spiritually, and socially. The historic campus has been continuously updated with modern learning facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Itasca, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available within or directly serving the Itasca, Illinois community?
Itasca, IL, is served by a few notable private schools, though some are located in nearby towns. Within Itasca itself, St. Walter School (K-8) is a prominent Catholic parish school. Just outside Itasca, in Downers Grove, The Avery Coonley School is a highly regarded independent school for gifted students in grades Pre-K through 8. Additionally, Immaculate Conception Grade School (Pre-K-8) in nearby Elmhurst serves many Itasca families. For high school, families typically look to private institutions in the broader DuPage County area. The availability emphasizes a mix of faith-based and independent gifted education within a short commute.
How does tuition for Itasca-area private schools compare, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid options?
Tuition in the Itasca area varies significantly by school type and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, parish-based schools like St. Walter often have tuition in the range of $5,000-$8,000 annually, with reduced rates for parish members. Independent schools like The Avery Coonley School have a substantially higher tuition, often exceeding $30,000. Illinois offers the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships for eligible students to attend private schools using donations from individuals and businesses who receive a state tax credit. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid, and Illinois' "Invest in Kids Act" scholarships are a crucial resource for qualifying families.
What unique academic programs or specializations are offered by private schools in and around Itasca, IL?
Private schools near Itasca offer distinct academic focuses. The Avery Coonley School is renowned for its accelerated curriculum designed for academically gifted children, featuring advanced STEM programs, robotics, and differentiated instruction. St. Walter School provides a traditional Catholic education integrated with technology (1:1 iPad program) and a strong emphasis on faith and service learning. Immaculate Conception Grade School offers a Spanish language program beginning in kindergarten. Many of these schools also have strong connections to local community resources in DuPage County for enrichment, setting them apart from standard public school curricula.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Itasca, Illinois families?
The enrollment process for Itasca-area private schools is competitive and begins early. For schools like The Avery Coonley, the application process for the following academic year often opens in September, with deadlines in December or January, and involves assessments, parent interviews, and student visits. Parish schools like St. Walter typically have registration periods in January or February for existing families, opening to new families shortly after. Sibling and parish member priority is common. It is highly recommended to attend fall open houses and initiate inquiries at least a year in advance, especially for the more sought-after programs in the region.
For families in Itasca, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school (Itasca School District 10) to private options?
Key considerations include class size, educational approach, and cost. Itasca School District 10 is well-regarded, offering a strong public education with no tuition. The main draws of private options are often smaller class sizes, specialized curricula (e.g., gifted education at Avery Coonley or faith-based instruction at St. Walter), and distinct community environments. Families must weigh the significant financial investment of private school against the quality of the free public option. Transportation is another factor; while District 10 provides busing, private schools may require carpooling. Many Itasca families choose private schools for a specific pedagogical or religious alignment not available in the public system.
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