The Best Private Schools in Waverly, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Waverly. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lutheran High School
Lutheran Church Missouri Synod
Lutheran High School is a highly-regarded Christian private school located approximately 25 miles from Waverly. Founded in 1975, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with multiple Advanced Placement courses and strong athletic and fine arts programs. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. With modern facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes, Lutheran High serves families throughout central Illinois seeking a faith-based education with strong academic outcomes.
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Springfield Christian School
Independent Christian
Springfield Christian School provides comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade, serving families in Waverly and surrounding communities. Established in 1979, the school offers a Christ-centered education with strong emphasis on core academics, character development, and extracurricular opportunities. The curriculum includes advanced STEM programs, comprehensive music education, and competitive sports. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities, with many graduates continuing to top-tier high schools throughout the region.
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Sacred Heart-Griffin High School
Catholic Diocese of Springfield
Sacred Heart-Griffin is a premier Catholic college preparatory high school serving Waverly and central Illinois communities. Founded in 1966 through the merger of two historic Catholic schools, SHG offers both traditional college preparatory courses and an International Baccalaureate program. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science and technology labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. With a strong tradition of academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programs, SHG prepares students for success in college and beyond while emphasizing service and moral development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Waverly, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Waverly, Illinois, and are there transportation services?
While Waverly itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby Springfield for the closest private school options. The most prominent schools include Sacred Heart-Griffin High School (co-ed, Catholic, grades 9-12), Springfield Christian School (Pre-K through 12), and Lutheran High School (grades 9-12). It is important to note that these schools are located approximately 20-25 miles from Waverly in Springfield. Most do not provide district-wide bus transportation from Waverly, so parents should plan for carpooling or private transportation. Some schools may have limited shuttle services from designated areas, so contacting admissions directly is essential.
How does the tuition for private schools near Waverly, IL, compare, and what financial aid options are available through Illinois state programs?
Tuition for the primary private schools serving Waverly residents varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $7,000 to $12,000+ annually for day schools, with high schools generally at the higher end. A key financial consideration for Illinois residents is the "Invest in Kids Act" tax credit scholarship program, which provides need-based scholarships for students attending qualified non-public schools. However, funding for this program is currently limited and subject to annual legislative review. Additionally, all the mentioned schools offer their own need-based financial aid and parish/subsidized rates for members. It's crucial to apply for aid early in the admissions cycle.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Waverly, IL, offer that differentiate them from each other?
Each school has distinct strengths. Sacred Heart-Griffin High School offers a comprehensive college-prep curriculum with notable programs in theology, a strong athletics program (Central State Eight Conference), and extensive fine arts. Springfield Christian School provides a continuous Pre-K-12 Christian education with a focus on integrating faith across all subjects and may offer smaller class sizes throughout. Lutheran High School emphasizes a Lutheran Christ-centered education, robust STEM coursework, and competitive athletics in the MSM conference. For families in Waverly, the choice often comes down to religious affiliation, desired academic focus, and the specific community environment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private high schools like Sacred Heart-Griffin or Lutheran High for a student from Waverly?
The enrollment process for these Springfield-based schools typically begins in the fall prior to the desired enrollment year (e.g., fall 2024 for the 2025-26 school year). Key steps include: 1) Attending an open house (often held October-January), 2) Submitting an application by a priority deadline (often in January or February), 3) Taking a placement exam (for high school), and 4) Applying for financial aid concurrently. As a family from outside the immediate Springfield area, it's advisable to communicate early with the admissions office about your location. Rolling admissions may continue after priority deadlines if spaces remain, but popular grades fill quickly.
For a family living in Waverly, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school in Springfield?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. The Waverly Community Unit School District #6 serves local students from elementary through high school, offering proximity and a strong community connection. Opting for a private school in Springfield adds a significant daily commute (30+ minutes each way), which impacts family logistics and student time. Academically, private schools offer a specific religious or value-based education that the public system does not. Socially, your child would build a friend network primarily in Springfield, which can affect local connections. Financially, you must weigh tuition and transportation costs against the perceived benefits of a private education. Many families visit both the local public school and their preferred private options to compare environments directly.