The Best Private Schools in Pearl, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Pearl. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary School
Diocese of Springfield in Illinois
St. Mary School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school located just 8 miles from Pearl in Pittsfield. Serving students from pre-K through 8th grade, the school offers a comprehensive education grounded in Catholic values with strong academic programs. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and dedicated teachers who provide individualized attention. Their curriculum emphasizes core academic subjects while integrating technology, STEM education, and fine arts. The school community is known for its family atmosphere and strong parent involvement, with many families commuting from surrounding rural communities including Pearl.
Programs:
Quincy Notre Dame High School
Private Catholic High School
Quincy Notre Dame is a premier Catholic high school serving students from across the region, including those from Pearl and surrounding Pike County communities. Located approximately 25 miles from Pearl in Quincy, QND offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. The school boasts exceptional facilities including modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and comprehensive athletic facilities. With a strong emphasis on faith formation and character development, QND consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and student success outcomes. Transportation options are available for students from outlying areas.
Programs:
Our Saviour School
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Our Saviour School provides exceptional private Christian education for students in pre-K through 8th grade, serving families throughout the Quincy area and surrounding communities including Pearl. The school offers a comprehensive academic program integrated with Christian values and character education. Features include technology-enhanced classrooms, strong music and arts programs, and competitive athletic opportunities. With small class sizes and experienced faculty, the school emphasizes individualized learning and academic excellence. The close-knit school community and strong parent-teacher partnerships make it a popular choice for families seeking quality private education in the region.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Pearl, Illinois
What are the private school options for families residing in Pearl, Illinois, and are there any transportation considerations?
Pearl, IL, is a small village, so most private school options are located in nearby communities. The primary schools include St. Mary School (in Mt. Sterling) and Our Saviour School (in Jacksonville), which typically serve elementary and middle grades. For high school, Quincy Notre Dame High School in Quincy is a common choice. Due to the distances involved—often a 20-45 minute drive—transportation is a key consideration. Most Pearl families provide their own transportation, as district busing for private schools is limited. Some schools may offer or coordinate carpool lists. It's important to contact each school directly to understand their specific geographic service areas and any available transportation assistance.
How does tuition at private schools serving Pearl, IL, compare, and what financial aid options are available through Illinois state programs?
Tuition varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 year, St. Mary School and Our Saviour School, as parish-affiliated schools, often have lower tuition rates for registered parishioners (approximately $4,000-$6,000 annually), with higher rates for non-parishioners. Quincy Notre Dame High School's tuition is typically higher, ranging from $8,000 to $10,000. A critical financial consideration for Illinois residents is the **Invest in Kids Act Tax Credit Scholarship Program**. This state program provides need-based scholarships funded by donations from individuals and businesses who receive a state tax credit. Eligibility is income-based, and funds are limited, so applying early is essential. Additionally, all schools offer their own need-based financial aid and may have parish subsidy programs.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Pearl, IL, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools in the region emphasize faith-based education and often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. Specifically, **Quincy Notre Dame High School** offers a distinctive college-prep curriculum with notable programs in STEM, fine arts, and a wide array of sports and clubs. **St. Mary School** integrates Catholic values throughout its curriculum and may offer specialized instruction in areas like music or Spanish. **Our Saviour School** provides a Lutheran-based education with a strong focus on character development. A key differentiator from the local public schools in the Brown County (Pearl) area is the religious education component and, in some cases, more extensive advanced placement or dual-credit course offerings at the high school level through partnerships with local colleges.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary or Our Saviour for a family moving to Pearl?
Enrollment for the following academic year typically opens in January or February, with priority often given to current families, siblings, and parish members. For families new to Pearl or the area, it is advisable to begin contacting schools in the fall prior to your desired enrollment year. The process usually involves: 1) A school tour and meeting with the principal, 2) Submission of an application form and fee, 3) Providing records from the previous school, and 4) Possibly a student assessment or interview. Because these schools are small and spaces can be limited, especially in specific grades, early inquiry is strongly recommended. Some grades may have waiting lists. Unlike public schools, enrollment is not guaranteed by residence.
For a family in Pearl, what are the key factors to consider when choosing between the local public school (Brown County Elementary) and a private school option?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. **Brown County Elementary/High School** offers the convenience of a very short commute, a community-centered environment, and no tuition. The private school options require a significant daily commute but provide a faith-based education (Catholic or Lutheran) that aligns with family values. Academically, consider class size; private schools often have smaller ratios. Extracurricularly, the public high school may have different athletic or club offerings compared to Quincy Notre Dame. Financially, you must weigh tuition and travel costs against the potential benefits of private education and the availability of Illinois tax credit scholarships. Many Pearl families value the strong community feel of the local public school, while others prioritize the religious education and perceived academic preparation of the private institutions.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities