The Best Private Schools in Arlington, Indiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Arlington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Lawrence Catholic School
Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana
St. Lawrence Catholic School serves families throughout Delaware County and surrounding areas including Arlington. This highly-rated Catholic school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with strong emphasis on faith formation, academic excellence, and character development. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and a robust curriculum that includes advanced math, science labs, and technology integration. Extracurricular programs include sports, music, art, and community service opportunities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong academic preparation for high school.
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Canterbury School
Independent Private School
Canterbury School is a premier independent school serving students from across northeastern Indiana, including those from Arlington seeking exceptional educational opportunities. The school offers a rigorous academic program from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, featuring both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate curricula. Canterbury boasts state-of-the-art facilities including science centers, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. The school is renowned for its exceptional faculty, with over 70% holding advanced degrees, and consistently achieves top academic results with graduates attending prestigious universities nationwide.
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Anderson Christian School
Independent Christian School
Anderson Christian School serves students from Madison County and surrounding communities including Arlington. This established Christian school offers education from preschool through 12th grade with a strong college preparatory focus. The school features small class sizes, individualized attention, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, fine arts, and competitive athletic programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratories, a gymnasium, and athletic fields. The school is known for its strong community atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and excellent college acceptance rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Arlington, Indiana
What are the primary private school options available for families in Arlington, Indiana, and what are their key characteristics?
Arlington, Indiana, is a small town, so families often look to nearby communities for private education. The most prominent options include St. Lawrence Catholic School in Lafayette (Pre-K-8), offering a faith-based education; Anderson Christian School in Anderson (K-12), providing an interdenominational Christian curriculum; and Canterbury School in Fort Wayne (Pre-K-12), known for its rigorous college-preparatory program. For Arlington residents, commuting to Lafayette, Anderson, or Fort Wayne is a common necessity, as there are no private schools physically located within Arlington's town limits. Each school has a distinct mission, so visiting and understanding the commute is a crucial first step.
How does tuition for private schools near Arlington, IN, compare, and are there any Indiana-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition varies significantly among schools near Arlington. St. Lawrence Catholic School typically has a lower tuition range, often between $4,000-$6,000 annually, with parish subsidies available for members. Anderson Christian School's tuition is generally moderate. Canterbury School, as a premier independent school, has the highest tuition, often exceeding $15,000 per year. All Indiana families, regardless of income, can benefit from the state's School Choice Scholarship (voucher) program and the Tax Credit Scholarship program. Eligibility depends on household income and, for vouchers, sometimes a prior enrollment requirement in public school. These programs can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs for qualifying Arlington families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving the Arlington area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools near Arlington provide specialized programs that may not be available in smaller public school districts. For example, St. Lawrence integrates Catholic values and sacramental preparation throughout its curriculum. Anderson Christian School emphasizes biblical integration in all subjects and may offer specific ministry or service-learning tracks. Canterbury School provides extensive Advanced Placement (AP) courses, renowned arts programs, and competitive athletics at a state level. These schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. For Arlington parents seeking a specific religious foundation or a highly accelerated academic track, these programs are a key differentiator.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Arlington, Indiana?
Enrollment timelines for schools like St. Lawrence, Anderson Christian, and Canterbury usually begin in the winter (January-February) for the following academic year, with priority given to current families and siblings. Canterbury School often has a more formalized process with application deadlines, testing, and interviews. Given the competitive nature and limited seats, especially at Canterbury, Arlington families are advised to initiate inquiries a full year in advance. Most schools host open houses in the fall. A critical step is scheduling a shadow day for your child, which requires planning due to the commute. Rolling admission may be available if spots remain, but early action is strongly recommended.
For an Arlington resident, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school in a neighboring city?
The decision hinges on several Arlington-specific factors. First is the daily commute, which can be 30-60 minutes each way to Lafayette, Anderson, or Fort Wayne, impacting family logistics and extracurricular participation. Second is cost: while public school is tax-funded, private tuition is an expense, though Indiana's voucher program can help. Academically, private schools may offer more specialized or rigorous tracks, while Arlington Community Schools provide the convenience of a close-knit, local community. Families must also consider their values: if a religious education or a particular pedagogical approach (like college-prep) is a priority, the commute to a private school may be worthwhile. Visiting both your local public school and the private options is essential for comparison.