The Best Private Schools in Lyons, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lyons. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Francis Xavier School
St. Francis Xavier Parish
St. Francis Xavier School serves students from preschool through 8th grade, drawing families from Lyons and surrounding communities. The school provides a faith-based education with strong academic foundations, including advanced math and science programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, a STEM lab, art studio, and gymnasium. The school emphasizes character development and community service while offering comprehensive extracurricular activities including sports, music, and academic clubs. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and strong student-teacher relationships.
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St. Barbara School
St. Barbara Parish
St. Barbara School serves preschool through 8th grade students from Lyons and neighboring communities. The school offers a balanced curriculum that integrates faith, academics, and character development. Technology is embedded throughout the curriculum with smart boards and computer labs. The school features specialized programs in Spanish, music, art, and physical education. A strong sense of community and family involvement characterizes the school environment, with active parent organizations and numerous volunteer opportunities. The school maintains small class sizes and offers extended care options for working families.
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Nazareth Academy
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago
Nazareth Academy is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory high school serving the Lyons area and surrounding western suburbs. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 23 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM program. Students benefit from modern facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. The school maintains a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and boasts a 100% college acceptance rate. Extracurricular offerings include over 50 clubs and 26 sports teams, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lyons, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Lyons, Illinois?
Lyons itself is home to a few key private institutions, primarily Catholic parochial schools like St. Barbara School (K-8). For high school, many Lyons families look to nearby Nazareth Academy, a highly-regarded co-ed Catholic high school in La Grange Park, which is a common destination. Another nearby option is St. Francis Xavier School in La Grange (Pre-K-8). While Lyons' on-site private options are limited, its location in Cook County provides access to a wider network of suburban Chicago private schools, though transportation becomes a key consideration.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Lyons, IL area typically compare, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition varies by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Barbara School in Lyons lists tuition around $5,500-$6,000 for parishioners. Nazareth Academy's tuition is approximately $13,000-$14,000. Most private schools in the area, including these, offer need-based financial aid and scholarships. Illinois also has the Invest in Kids Act, which provides tax credit scholarships for eligible families to attend private schools, though funding is limited and application is highly competitive. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and deadlines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools serving the Lyons community?
Schools in this area often emphasize college preparatory tracks and faith-based education. Nazareth Academy is known for strong STEM programs, a renowned performing arts department, and extensive athletic offerings. St. Barbara School integrates technology with a 1:1 iPad program and focuses on service learning rooted in its Catholic identity. A unique aspect for Lyons families is the proximity to Chicago, which allows some schools to facilitate educational trips and cultural experiences in the city that enrich the standard curriculum.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Barbara or Nazareth Academy for a Lyons resident?
The process typically begins a full year in advance. For fall enrollment, open houses are held between September and November. Application deadlines for schools like Nazareth Academy are often in early December, with acceptance notifications sent by February. St. Barbara School may have a more rolling admissions process but encourages early application. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often attending a shadow day or interview. Parish affiliation requirements can affect priority and tuition rates at parish schools, so connecting with the local church is important.
As a Lyons parent, how should I weigh the decision between Lyons School District 103 public schools and local private options?
This decision hinges on your priorities. Lyons School District 103 operates George Washington Middle School and elementary schools, offering a tuition-free, diverse public education with standard curricular offerings. Choosing a private school like St. Barbara or Nazareth often involves a desire for a specific religious education, smaller class sizes, or specialized programs (like Nazareth's college-prep focus). Consider the annual financial commitment, daily commute, and the value you place on faith integration. Many Lyons families utilize the strong local public system for elementary years and then consider private high schools for expanded academic and extracurricular opportunities.
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