The Best Private Schools in Parkersburg, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Parkersburg. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Joseph Catholic School
Diocese of Springfield in Illinois
St. Joseph Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the Parkersburg region from nearby Olney. With over six decades of educational excellence, this school offers a comprehensive faith-based curriculum that emphasizes academic rigor while nurturing spiritual development. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated STEM labs, and robust fine arts programs. Students benefit from small class sizes with personalized attention, comprehensive technology integration, and a strong community atmosphere. The school serves students from preschool through 8th grade and maintains high academic standards with graduates consistently performing well in area high schools.
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Sacred Heart School
Diocese of Evansville
Sacred Heart School in Lawrenceville serves the Parkersburg area with a distinguished tradition of academic excellence spanning over 70 years. This PreK-8 institution offers a comprehensive curriculum grounded in Catholic values while emphasizing strong foundational skills in mathematics, language arts, and sciences. The school features modern facilities including updated technology labs, a well-stocked library, and athletic facilities. Extracurricular offerings include competitive sports teams, music programs, and various clubs. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, safe learning environment, and strong sense of community that prepares students for academic success in high school and beyond.
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St. Mary's School
Diocese of Springfield in Illinois
St. Mary's School in Robinson provides quality Catholic education to families in the Parkersburg region. With 60 years of educational service, this institution offers a well-rounded academic program from preschool through 8th grade. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement, featuring small class sizes, individualized instruction, and comprehensive technology integration. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer labs, and recreational areas. The school maintains strong parent involvement and community support, with graduates demonstrating excellent preparation for secondary education. Programs include religious education, advanced academics, and various extracurricular activities that foster holistic student development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Parkersburg, Illinois
What are the private school options available for K-12 education in Parkersburg, Illinois?
Parkersburg, IL, is served by a small number of faith-based private institutions, primarily Catholic schools. The main options include St. Joseph Catholic School, Sacred Heart School, and St. Mary's School. These schools typically cover grades from Pre-K or Kindergarten through 8th grade. For high school, families in Parkersburg often need to look at private options in larger nearby communities, as there are no private high schools within Parkersburg itself. It's important to contact each school directly to confirm their current grade offerings, as configurations can change.
How does tuition at Parkersburg's private schools compare to the Illinois state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition at Parkersburg's Catholic schools is generally below the Illinois state average for private schools, reflecting the lower cost of living in this rural area. Annual tuition often ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 per student, but exact rates vary by school and grade level. Financial aid is typically available through parish subsidies for active church members, diocesan assistance programs, and sometimes school-specific scholarships. Illinois also offers a tax-credit scholarship program (Invest in Kids Act), which can provide significant financial assistance to eligible families, though funding is limited and application is competitive.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Parkersburg private schools offer that reflect the local community?
Parkersburg's private schools emphasize a close-knit, values-based education with small class sizes, allowing for significant individual attention. Academically, they integrate faith into the standard curriculum and often have strong foundational programs in reading and mathematics. Given the agricultural and community-focused nature of the area, extracurriculars may include participation in local community service projects, agriculture-related science activities, and partnerships with area churches and organizations. Some schools may also participate in academic competitions or athletic leagues with other small private schools in southeastern Illinois.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for schools like St. Joseph or Sacred Heart in Parkersburg?
The enrollment process for Parkersburg's private schools usually begins in early spring (February-March) for the following academic year. It typically involves submitting an application form, providing birth and baptismal certificates (for Catholic schools), immunization records, and previous school records. Many schools require a family interview or meeting with the principal. Priority is often given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of the supporting church. Due to small class sizes, spaces can be limited, so early inquiry is strongly recommended. Open houses or visitation days are commonly held in the winter months.
For a family in Parkersburg, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private Catholic school?
The key considerations include educational philosophy, cost, and community fit. Parkersburg's public schools are tuition-free and offer a comprehensive K-12 pathway within the same district. Private Catholic schools offer a religious education, often with smaller class sizes and a specific moral framework. Transportation can be a factor, as public school busing is widely available, while private schools may require parents to arrange transportation. Academically, both sectors aim to meet Illinois learning standards, but the private school environment may offer a different social dynamic. Many families in the area choose based on their desire for a faith-based education and the value they place on the tight-knit community these small private schools foster.
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