The Best Private Schools in Elizabethtown, Indiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Elizabethtown. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Peter's Lutheran School
Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
St. Peter's Lutheran School is a highly-regarded Christian private school serving Elizabethtown and surrounding Bartholomew County areas. With small class sizes and individualized attention, the school provides a comprehensive education grounded in Lutheran values. The curriculum emphasizes academic excellence with strong STEM programs, music education, and competitive sports. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic fields. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, safe environment, and strong community atmosphere that fosters both academic and spiritual growth.
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St. Mary's School
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
Serving students from Elizabethtown and Jennings County for over six decades, St. Mary's School offers a rigorous Catholic education with strong academic foundations. The school features a comprehensive curriculum with particular strengths in mathematics and language arts, supplemented by art, music, and technology programs. The campus includes well-maintained facilities with smart classrooms, a library, and playground areas. Parents appreciate the family-oriented environment, experienced faculty, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students with strong moral character.
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Immanuel Lutheran School
Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
Immanuel Lutheran School in Seymour serves families throughout Jackson County, including Elizabethtown area residents. This established Lutheran school provides a Christ-centered education with strong college preparatory academics. The school offers a balanced program including competitive sports, comprehensive music education, and technology integration across all grade levels. Facilities feature modern classrooms, science labs, gymnasium, and dedicated art and music spaces. The school is known for its committed teaching staff, strong parent involvement, and excellent track record of preparing students for high school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Elizabethtown, Indiana
What are the private school options available for K-8 education in Elizabethtown, Indiana?
Elizabethtown, Indiana, offers a small but dedicated selection of private, faith-based elementary and middle schools. The primary options are St. Peter's Lutheran School (Lutheran - LCMS), St. Mary's School (Catholic), and Immanuel Lutheran School (Lutheran). These schools typically serve students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. Given the town's size, there are no large independent private or secular private schools within Elizabethtown itself; families seeking those options often look at schools in larger nearby communities like Columbus or North Vernon. These local schools are deeply integrated into the Elizabethtown community and emphasize strong academics combined with religious education.
How does tuition at Elizabethtown's private schools compare, and are there Indiana-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition at Elizabethtown's private schools is generally modest compared to urban private schools, reflecting the local cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, annual tuition typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,500 per student, with discounts often available for multiple children from the same family. Crucially, Indiana state programs can significantly offset these costs. The Indiana Choice Scholarship Program (voucher) and the Tax Credit Scholarship (SGO) program are available to eligible families based on income thresholds. All three Elizabethtown schools participate in these programs, making private education more accessible. It's essential to contact each school's financial office directly for the most current rates and detailed guidance on applying for state aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Elizabethtown private schools offer that leverage the local community?
Elizabethtown's private schools often incorporate the town's close-knit, rural community and values into their programs. Common strengths include robust STEM initiatives, agricultural science connections, and strong music programs often featured in local community events. A unique aspect is the emphasis on service learning tied directly to Elizabethtown and surrounding areas, such as partnerships with local farms, historical societies, and community service projects. Given their religious affiliations, they also offer daily religion classes and chapel services. While they may not have the vast array of clubs found in larger schools, they often provide personalized attention in areas like athletics, art, and academic competitions through the Indiana Non-Public Education Association (INPEA).
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for St. Peter's, St. Mary's, or Immanuel Lutheran in Elizabethtown?
The enrollment process for Elizabethtown's private schools usually begins in January or February for the following academic year, with priority often given to current families and members of the supporting church parish. The general steps include: 1) Attending an open house or scheduling a personal tour (highly recommended due to the personalized nature of the schools). 2) Submitting an application form by early spring. 3) Providing academic records from any previous school. 4) For Indiana voucher eligibility, completing the state's application process through the school. Unlike in competitive urban markets, spaces are often available, but popular grades can fill. It's advisable to initiate contact by December to ensure you meet all financial aid and parish priority deadlines.
For a family new to Elizabethtown, how do the local private schools compare to the public school district, and what are the key deciding factors?
The decision between Elizabethtown's private schools (St. Peter's, St. Mary's, Immanuel Lutheran) and the public Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (which serves the area) involves several key considerations. The private schools offer smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students), a consistent faith-based environment throughout the K-8 journey, and a close community feel. The public school option, likely Sand Creek Elementary and later Central Middle School in Columbus, offers a larger, more diverse student body, a wider range of extracurriculars, and no tuition cost. For many Elizabethtown families, the choice hinges on the value placed on religious instruction, the desire for a small-school setting, and the ability to utilize Indiana's voucher programs to manage tuition. Transportation can also be a factor, as public school busing is available, while private schools may require carpooling.