The Best Private Schools in Sullivan, Indiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Sullivan. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Patrick School
Diocese of Evansville Catholic Schools
St. Patrick School is the premier private educational institution in Sullivan, offering a comprehensive Catholic education from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. With over 75 years of service to the community, the school provides a faith-based learning environment with strong academic foundations. The curriculum emphasizes core subjects while integrating technology, religious education, and character development. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community atmosphere. The school features modern facilities including technology labs, a library, and gymnasium, along with extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience.
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St. Patrick School
Diocese of Evansville Catholic Schools
Serving the Sullivan area from nearby Terre Haute, St. Patrick School has been providing exceptional Catholic education for over 150 years. This historic institution offers education from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade with a classical curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, moral development, and academic excellence. The school features recently renovated facilities including smart classrooms, a STEM lab, library, and chapel. Students participate in weekly Mass, sacramental preparation, and community service projects. The comprehensive program includes foreign language instruction, music education, art classes, and competitive sports, creating well-rounded graduates prepared for high school success.
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Terre Haute North Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Located approximately 30 minutes from Sullivan in Terre Haute, Terre Haute North Christian Academy serves families throughout the region with a comprehensive Christian education from preschool through 12th grade. The academy offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum grounded in biblical principles, with small class sizes ensuring personalized attention. The school features modern science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. Academic programs are complemented by strong fine arts offerings, competitive sports teams, and numerous extracurricular activities. Many graduates attend top colleges and universities, with the school maintaining a 100% college acceptance rate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Sullivan, Indiana
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Sullivan, Indiana?
Sullivan, Indiana, is primarily served by St. Patrick School, a private Catholic institution offering education from Pre-K through 8th grade. For high school, families often look to nearby communities. A notable option is Terre Haute North Christian Academy in Terre Haute, approximately a 30-minute drive from Sullivan. Given the limited number of schools within the city limits, many Sullivan parents also consider private schools in neighboring towns like Linton, Jasonville, or Terre Haute, which may involve commuting. St. Patrick School is the cornerstone of private education directly in Sullivan.
How does tuition at St. Patrick School in Sullivan compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition at St. Patrick School in Sullivan is typically below the Indiana state average for private elementary schools, reflecting the local cost of living. Specific rates vary by grade and parish membership, but it is known for being an affordable private option. Financial aid is often available through the parish, diocesan programs, and the state-funded Indiana Choice Scholarship Program (vouchers). Eligibility for vouchers depends on household income and other criteria, making private education accessible to more Sullivan families. It's essential to contact the school directly for the current year's tuition schedule and aid application process.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools like St. Patrick School in Sullivan offer that differentiate them from public schools?
St. Patrick School in Sullivan provides a faith-based education integrated into its core curriculum, which is a primary differentiator. Academically, it often features smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. While specific extracurricular offerings are more limited than in larger districts, the school typically emphasizes community service, religious sacramental preparation, and may participate in local academic competitions through the Diocese of Evansville. Its setting in a close-knit community like Sullivan allows for strong parent-teacher partnerships and a values-focused environment that many families seek.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for St. Patrick School in Sullivan, and are there waitlists?
St. Patrick School in Sullivan generally begins open enrollment for the following academic year in early spring (February/March). The process involves submitting an application, providing birth and baptismal certificates (if applicable), academic records, and often a family interview. Due to its small size and the stability of the Sullivan community, spaces can be limited, particularly in the early childhood grades. It is uncommon to have long waitlists, but prompt application is recommended. The school also hosts open houses and shadow days for prospective students. New families moving to Sullivan are encouraged to contact the school office as soon as possible, as mid-year enrollment may be accommodated.
For a family in Sullivan considering private versus public school, what are the key local factors to weigh in the decision?
In Sullivan, key factors include educational philosophy, cost, and logistics. Sullivan Elementary School is the public option, offering a tuition-free education with potentially broader resources and extracurriculars. Choosing St. Patrick School involves a commitment to a Catholic education and tuition payments, though financial aid can offset costs. A practical consideration is the lack of a private high school in Sullivan; choosing St. Patrick for K-8 means planning for a transition to Sullivan High School or commuting to a private high school later. The decision often hinges on how much a family values religious instruction, small community feel, and the continuity of a K-8 environment versus the no-cost, comprehensive K-12 pathway of the public system.