The Best Private Schools in Riverside, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Riverside. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Montessori School of Riverside
Independent Montessori School
The Montessori School of Riverside is a highly-regarded private institution serving students from preschool through elementary grades. Following authentic Montessori principles, the school provides individualized education in mixed-age classrooms that foster independence and love of learning. The school features beautiful, well-equipped classrooms with specialized Montessori materials, outdoor learning environments, and a strong sense of community. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, nurturing environment, and the school's ability to develop confident, self-motivated learners. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, practical life skills, and academic excellence while maintaining small class sizes for personalized attention.
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Nazareth Academy
Catholic Independent School
Nazareth Academy is a comprehensive Catholic co-educational high school serving Riverside and surrounding western suburbs. With a rich history spanning nearly nine decades, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement opportunities and specialized programs in STEM, business, and fine arts. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, modern athletic facilities, performing arts spaces, and technology-integrated classrooms. Known for its strong community values and academic excellence, Nazareth boasts high college acceptance rates and a comprehensive extracurricular program including championship athletic teams, competitive academic teams, and extensive service learning opportunities.
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St. Francis Xavier School
Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago
St. Francis Xavier School is a highly-rated Catholic elementary school serving families from Riverside and surrounding communities. With nearly a century of educational excellence, the school provides a faith-based education from preschool through eighth grade. The curriculum balances strong academics with character development, featuring specialized STEM laboratories, comprehensive technology integration, foreign language instruction, and robust arts programming. The school maintains small class sizes with dedicated, experienced teachers and offers extensive extracurricular activities including sports, clubs, and community service opportunities. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's nurturing environment, academic rigor, and strong sense of community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Riverside, Illinois
What are the primary types of private schools available in Riverside, Illinois, and how do they differ?
Riverside, IL, offers a distinct mix of private educational models. You'll find faith-based parochial schools like St. Francis Xavier School (Catholic, K-8), which integrate religious education with a traditional curriculum. There is also Nazareth Academy, a private Catholic Lasallian college preparatory high school known for its rigorous academics and extensive extracurriculars. For a non-sectarian, child-led approach, The Montessori School of Riverside serves preschool and elementary grades. This variety allows parents in Riverside to choose based on educational philosophy, religious affiliation, and grade-level needs within a close-knit community setting.
How does tuition for private schools in Riverside, IL, compare to the broader Chicago area, and what financial aid options exist?
While generally lower than downtown Chicago private schools, tuition in Riverside is significant. For the 2024-25 year, expect ranges of approximately $6,000-$10,000 for elementary parochial schools and $15,000-$18,000 for high schools like Nazareth Academy. Illinois offers the Tax Credit Scholarship Program, where donations to scholarship-granting organizations provide need-based aid for qualifying families. Additionally, most Riverside private schools have their own need-based financial aid and merit scholarship programs. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited and deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Riverside that leverage its location or community?
Riverside private schools often utilize the village's historic, park-like setting and proximity to Chicago. Nazareth Academy offers robust STEM programs and internships that connect students with Chicago-area universities and businesses. St. Francis Xavier School emphasizes community service within Riverside and neighboring communities. The Montessori School of Riverside incorporates its natural surroundings into its hands-on, experiential learning curriculum. Furthermore, many schools participate in local events and leverage the Metra rail line for educational trips into Chicago for cultural and scientific enrichment, blending suburban comfort with urban access.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Riverside, Illinois?
The process is competitive, especially for sought-after schools like Nazareth Academy. Key timelines begin in the fall (September-October) a year before desired entry, with open houses. Application deadlines are often in December or January for the following academic year. Entrance exams (like the HSPT for high school) are typically held in January. Admissions decisions and financial aid awards are communicated in February or March. For preschools like The Montessori School of Riverside, touring and applying even 12-18 months in advance is advisable due to limited spots. Sibling and parish member (for parochial schools) priority can affect timelines.
For families considering both options, what are the defining differences between Riverside Public School District 96 and the local private schools?
Riverside Public School District 96 is highly regarded, offering a tuition-free, comprehensive education with strong test scores. The defining differences with private options often come down to class size, curriculum, and environment. Private schools in Riverside typically have smaller class sizes (e.g., 15-20 students vs. public's ~25). They offer specific philosophies (Montessori) or religious instruction not available in public schools. Public District 96 provides guaranteed enrollment for residents, while private schools involve tuition and selective admission. The choice often hinges on whether a family seeks a particular faith-based education, a specific pedagogical approach, or is willing to invest in potentially more individualized attention.