The Best Private Schools in Princeville, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Princeville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Islamic Foundation School
Islamic Foundation of Peoria
The Islamic Foundation School serves families throughout the Peoria metropolitan area, including Princeville, offering a comprehensive education that combines academic excellence with Islamic values. The school provides a strong college preparatory curriculum alongside Arabic language instruction and Islamic studies. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students achieve high academic standards while developing moral character. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, computer labs, and recreational facilities. The school is known for its inclusive environment and strong parent community, with many graduates attending top universities.
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Peoria Academy
Independent
Peoria Academy is a highly-regarded independent school serving the greater Peoria area, including Princeville families. Founded in 1961, the school offers an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for grades PreK-5 and a comprehensive middle school curriculum. The school emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and a balanced education with strong arts and STEM integration. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school is known for its diverse community and commitment to developing critical thinking skills.
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Peoria Notre Dame High School
Catholic Diocese of Peoria
Peoria Notre Dame High School is a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Princeville and throughout the Peoria region. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 18 Advanced Placement courses, a dedicated STEM Academy, and extensive fine arts opportunities. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, students receive personalized attention in a faith-based environment. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, athletic facilities, and technology-integrated classrooms. The school has a 99% college acceptance rate and strong community involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Princeville, Illinois
Are there any private schools actually located within Princeville, Illinois, or will we need to commute to nearby cities?
There are no private K-12 schools physically located within the village limits of Princeville, Illinois. Families seeking private education typically commute to nearby Peoria, which is about a 20-25 minute drive. The top-regarded options in the region, such as Peoria Academy (PreK-8), Peoria Notre Dame High School (9-12), and The Islamic Foundation School (PreK-12), are all located in Peoria. This commute is a key logistical consideration for Princeville residents, involving transportation planning and potential carpool arrangements with other local families.
How does the tuition for Peoria-area private schools compare to the Illinois state average, and what financial aid options are available for Princeville families?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Princeville is generally competitive with or slightly below the Illinois state average for similar institutions. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $8,000-$12,000 for elementary schools and $10,000-$14,000 for high schools. All major schools offer need-based financial aid, and Illinois residents should investigate the **Invest in Kids Act Tax Credit Scholarship Program**, which provides scholarships funded by donations from Illinois taxpayers. Additionally, Peoria Notre Dame High School offers parish-specific tuition rates and diocesan aid for Catholic families, which can be a significant benefit.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Princeville offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools serving Princeville offer distinct programs not typically found in smaller public school districts. Peoria Academy emphasizes an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme for its younger students, fostering a global, inquiry-based curriculum. Peoria Notre Dame provides extensive college-prep tracks, including numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses and specialized programs in engineering and health sciences. The Islamic Foundation School offers a dual curriculum integrating standard academic excellence with Arabic language and Islamic studies. For Princeville families, these specialized programs provide alternatives to the curriculum at Princeville Community Unit School District #326.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and key deadlines for applying to private schools in the Peoria area as a resident of Princeville?
The enrollment cycle for Peoria-area private schools begins early. Most schools open applications for the following academic year in September or October, with priority deadlines between January and February. For instance, Peoria Academy and Peoria Notre Dame often have financial aid application deadlines in February. As a Princeville resident, it's crucial to apply early, as some grades (particularly kindergarten, 6th, and 9th) have limited seats and may fill quickly. Many schools also require entrance exams or assessments (like the HSPT for high school) in the winter. Scheduling campus visits in the fall is highly recommended to understand the commute and community fit.
For a family living in Princeville, what are the primary factors to consider when choosing between the local public schools and commuting to a private school in Peoria?
The decision hinges on several Princeville-specific factors. First, evaluate the daily commute (time, cost, and safety, especially in winter) to Peoria versus the walkability or short bus ride to Princeville's public schools. Second, consider the educational philosophy: Princeville public schools offer a tight-knit, community-focused environment, while Peoria private schools provide specific religious affiliations (Catholic, Islamic) or pedagogical approaches (IB). Third, assess extracurricular opportunities; private schools may offer more niche arts or sports, but Princeville High School has its own strong traditions in athletics and agriculture. Finally, analyze the financial commitment of tuition against the potential savings from not utilizing the Illinois tax credit for private school scholarships.