The Best Private Schools in Rome, Indiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Rome. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Xavier High School
Midwest Jesuit Secondary Education Association
While located in Cincinnati, Ohio (approximately 45 minutes from Rome), St. Xavier High School is a premier Jesuit college-preparatory school that serves students from the broader tri-state area including southeastern Indiana. This all-boys Catholic school offers an exceptional academic program with 28 Advanced Placement courses, extensive STEM facilities, competitive athletics, and comprehensive arts programs. The 125-acre campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With a 99% college acceptance rate and numerous National Merit Scholars, St. Xavier consistently ranks among the top private schools in the region.
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St. Louis School
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
St. Louis School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school located approximately 15 minutes from Rome, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with strong emphasis on faith formation, STEM education, and character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1 and has consistently high parent satisfaction ratings for its nurturing environment and academic rigor.
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St. Lawrence School
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
Located about 20 minutes from Rome in Lawrenceburg, St. Lawrence School serves students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade with a strong academic foundation rooted in Catholic values. The school features a rigorous curriculum with advanced mathematics and language arts programs, complemented by comprehensive music and arts education. The campus includes modern technology labs, a library media center, and athletic facilities. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students with strong moral character.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Rome, Indiana
What are the primary private school options available for families in and around Rome, Indiana?
Rome, Indiana, is served by a small number of private institutions, primarily Catholic schools. The notable options include St. Louis School (typically Pre-K through 8th grade) and St. Lawrence School, which are elementary/middle schools. For high school, families often look to St. Xavier High School, which is a well-regarded Catholic college-preparatory school located in nearby Cincinnati, Ohio, serving students from Indiana and Ohio. Due to the rural nature of Rome and Ripley County, private school choices are limited within the immediate town, so many families consider schools in neighboring communities like Batesville or make arrangements for transportation to schools in larger nearby cities.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Rome, Indiana area compare, and are there any Indiana-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for local Catholic elementary schools like St. Louis or St. Lawrence is generally more affordable than larger independent private schools in metropolitan areas, often ranging from several thousand dollars per year per student. St. Xavier High School's tuition is higher, reflecting its comprehensive college-prep program. Critically, Indiana offers the Choice Scholarship Program (voucher program) and Tax Credit Scholarship programs, which can significantly reduce costs for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income and other factors, and these programs can be used at participating private schools, including Catholic schools. It's essential to check each school's participation status and application process for these state aids.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Rome, Indiana students offer?
Schools serving the Rome area focus on core academic excellence within a faith-based environment. St. Louis and St. Lawrence schools provide strong foundational programs with religious education. A standout for high school students is St. Xavier High School, which offers a robust curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, a renowned STEM program, and competitive athletics in the Greater Catholic League. Given Rome's location, some private schools may also incorporate agricultural science or environmental studies that resonate with the community's context, though the most specialized advanced programs are typically found at the high school level in the regional Catholic system.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Rome, Indiana region?
Enrollment for schools like St. Louis and St. Lawrence often begins in early winter (January-February) for the following academic year, with priority frequently given to parish members and siblings of current students. The process usually involves submitting an application, birth and baptismal certificates, academic records, and possibly a family interview. For St. Xavier High School, the process is more formalized and begins with an entrance exam (typically in the fall for 8th graders), followed by an application deadline in the winter. Given limited seats, especially in popular programs, starting the process early is crucial. Families from Rome should also inquire about transportation options, as some schools may offer bus service from designated areas.
How do private schools in the Rome, Indiana area compare to the local public school options, particularly South Ripley Community Schools?
The primary comparison for Rome families is between local Catholic elementary schools and South Ripley Elementary School, and for high school, between St. Xavier and South Ripley Junior-Senior High School. Key differences include: private schools offer smaller class sizes and a specific religious education integrated into the curriculum. Public schools provide a broader range of extracurriculars by virtue of size and state funding, including more diverse sports and vocational programs. Academically, both sectors can provide quality education, but St. Xavier offers a particularly strong college-prep track with extensive resources. The decision often hinges on a family's values, desire for faith-based education, budget (considering vouchers), and willingness to commute for private high school options.
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