The Best Private Schools in Mapleton, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Mapleton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Peoria Academy
Independent
Peoria Academy is a highly-regarded independent school serving the greater Peoria area, including Mapleton. The school offers an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Known for its small class sizes and individualized attention, the school emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and character development. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic spaces. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong academic preparation.
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Peoria Notre Dame High School
Catholic Diocese of Peoria
Peoria Notre Dame is a comprehensive Catholic high school serving students from Mapleton and surrounding communities. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with honors and Advanced Placement courses. Notable programs include their STEM Academy, competitive athletics program, and extensive fine arts offerings. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. The school maintains strong college acceptance rates and emphasizes faith-based education alongside academic excellence.
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Dunlap Grade School
Dunlap Community Unit School District 323
While technically part of a public school district, Dunlap Grade School operates as a sought-after option for families in the Mapleton area seeking private-school quality education. The school consistently ranks among the top elementary schools in Illinois with exceptional test scores and academic performance. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, comprehensive literacy programs, and extensive STEM opportunities. The school features modern technology integration, dedicated art and music facilities, and strong parent involvement. Many families choose to relocate to access this high-performing school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Mapleton, Illinois
Are there any private schools actually located within Mapleton, IL, or do families typically look to neighboring areas?
There are no private K-12 schools physically located within the village limits of Mapleton, IL. Families in Mapleton seeking private education typically look to institutions in the greater Peoria area, which is a short commute away. The schools you mentioned, like Peoria Academy (PreK-8, independent) and Peoria Notre Dame High School (9-12, Catholic), are located in Peoria, while Dunlap Grade School is a public school in the neighboring Dunlap district. This means choosing a private school in Mapleton involves planning for transportation to Peoria, Dunlap, or other nearby communities.
What is the typical tuition range for private schools serving Mapleton, IL, families, and are there Illinois-specific financial aid options?
For the private schools that Mapleton families commonly consider, annual tuition can range significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Peoria Academy's tuition is approximately $10,000-$12,000 for lower grades, while Peoria Notre Dame High School's tuition is around $9,500-$10,500. Beyond school-specific scholarships and need-based aid, Illinois offers the "Invest in Kids Act" tax credit scholarship program, which can provide significant financial assistance to eligible families. It's crucial to apply for these programs early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Peoria-area private schools offer that might benefit a student from Mapleton?
Private schools in the Peoria area, accessible to Mapleton residents, offer specialized programs that may not be available in smaller public districts. Peoria Academy emphasizes an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and a strong focus on global citizenship. Peoria Notre Dame High School offers robust college-prep curricula alongside distinctive programs like its Engineering Academy and extensive theology courses. For families in Mapleton, these programs provide access to specialized tracks without needing to relocate to a larger metropolitan area.
What are the key enrollment timelines and application steps for private schools in the Peoria/Mapleton, IL, region?
The enrollment cycle for private schools serving the Mapleton area typically begins a full year in advance. Most schools, like Peoria Academy and Peoria Notre Dame, open applications in September or October for the following fall. Critical deadlines for financial aid applications (using platforms like FACTS) are often in January or February. Given that these schools draw from a wide regional area, including Mapleton, it is highly advisable to attend open houses in the fall, submit applications by winter, and complete any required student assessments or shadow days by early spring to secure a spot.
How do the class sizes and community environments of private schools near Mapleton compare to the local public school options?
Mapleton students are part of the Mapleton Community Unit School District 1, which includes a single, small K-8 school. The primary contrast for families considering private options in Peoria is the environment. Mapleton CUSD 1 offers a very small, close-knit public school setting. In contrast, private schools like Peoria Academy and Peoria Notre Dame offer small class sizes (often 15-20 students) but within a larger, more diverse student body drawn from across the region. This provides a different social and academic dynamic, with more specialized staff and facilities, but requires a commitment to daily commuting.
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