The Best Private Schools in Kenilworth, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Kenilworth. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
North Shore Country Day School
Independent School
North Shore Country Day School is one of the most prestigious independent schools in the Chicago North Shore area, serving families from Kenilworth and surrounding communities. The school offers a comprehensive Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade program known for academic excellence and character education. NSCDS features a challenging curriculum with advanced courses, extensive arts programs, competitive athletics, and global education opportunities. The beautiful campus includes state-of-the-art facilities, and the school maintains a strong sense of community while preparing students for top colleges and lifelong success.
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Roycemore School
Independent School
Roycemore School is a highly-regarded independent school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located just south of Kenilworth in Evanston, this prestigious institution offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and character development, with strong programs in STEAM, performing arts, and athletics. Roycemore's Upper School students consistently gain admission to top-tier colleges and universities. The school's historic campus features modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic spaces.
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Baker Demonstration School
Independent School
Baker Demonstration School offers a progressive, child-centered education for students from preschool through 8th grade. Located in adjacent Wilmette, the school serves many Kenilworth families with its innovative approach to learning that emphasizes hands-on experiences, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. The curriculum integrates arts, technology, and project-based learning across all grade levels. Baker's small class sizes and dedicated faculty create a nurturing environment where students develop strong academic foundations and creative problem-solving skills. The school's graduates are well-prepared for competitive high schools throughout the North Shore area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Kenilworth, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available to families residing in Kenilworth, Illinois, and what are their key characteristics?
While Kenilworth itself is a small village with no private schools within its municipal boundaries, residents have access to several prestigious independent schools in the immediate North Shore area. The most prominent include **Roycemore School** (Evanston, Pre-K-12), known for its progressive, project-based learning and flexible pathways including early graduation; **North Shore Country Day School** (Winnetka, JK-12), renowned for its rigorous academics, character education, and strong arts and athletics; and **Baker Demonstration School** (Wilmette, Pre-K-8), which emphasizes experiential, hands-on learning rooted in the progressive education model. These schools are all within a short commute and represent the top tier of private education available to Kenilworth families.
How does the tuition for North Shore private schools near Kenilworth, IL, compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools in the Kenilworth area is significant, reflecting their resources and reputations. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition ranges approximately from the mid-$30,000s for lower schools to over $40,000 for upper schools at institutions like North Shore Country Day and Roycemore. It's important to note that Illinois has a **Tax-Credit Scholarship Program**, which can provide need-based scholarships for qualifying families to use at participating private schools. Additionally, each school offers its own substantial need-based financial aid programs. Families are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admissions, as these schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and may meet a significant portion of demonstrated need.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Kenilworth, IL, area that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools near Kenilworth offer distinctive programs not commonly found in the already excellent public districts (like New Trier Township). For example, **Roycemore School** features a unique "Flex-Year" program allowing motivated high school students to graduate early and begin college or pursue internships. **North Shore Country Day School** has a renowned "Winter Project" term for intensive study and a comprehensive global travel program. **Baker Demonstration School** integrates a working, on-site teaching garden and a "Maker Lab" into its curriculum from an early age. These schools often have more flexibility for interdisciplinary studies, smaller class sizes for deep discussion, and specialized arts and technology facilities that provide a different educational environment than the larger public high schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Kenilworth, Illinois, families?
The admissions process for top North Shore private schools is highly structured and begins well in advance. The timeline typically starts in the **late summer or early fall** (14-18 months before desired entry) with open houses and tours. Application deadlines are usually in **mid-to-late January** for the following academic year. The process involves a submitted application, student assessments/visits, parent interviews, and teacher recommendations. Notification dates are generally in **mid-March**. Given the competitive nature and limited spaces, especially for entry points like Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and 9th grade, Kenilworth families are advised to start research early, attend fall open houses, and ensure all materials are submitted by the deadlines.
For a family in Kenilworth, IL, already part of an acclaimed public school district, what are the compelling reasons to consider a private school option?
While Kenilworth is part of the top-ranked New Trier Township High School District 203, families may choose private schools for specific philosophical or programmatic alignments. Reasons include seeking a **continuous, small-school community** from junior kindergarten through 12th grade, as opposed to the transition between separate elementary and large high school systems. Others prioritize a particular **educational philosophy**, such as progressive, student-directed learning at Roycemore or Baker, versus a more traditional public curriculum. Some families value the ability to customize advanced learning paths or seek more intimate settings for student leadership and teacher mentorship. The decision often hinges on the desired school culture, pedagogical approach, and community size rather than a deficiency in the public options.
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