The Best Private Schools in Westfield, Indiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Westfield. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Guerin Catholic High School
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis
Guerin Catholic is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory high school serving the Westfield community and surrounding areas. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 22 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM program. Students benefit from small class sizes averaging 18 students, with 85% of faculty holding advanced degrees. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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The Orchard School
Independent School
The Orchard School is a prestigious independent school serving students from Westfield and the greater Indianapolis area. Founded on progressive education principles, Orchard emphasizes hands-on learning and critical thinking through its 26-acre outdoor campus with nature trails and outdoor classrooms. The school offers a comprehensive STEAM curriculum with dedicated innovation labs and art studios. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the school maintains strong college placement records. Orchard's diverse community and commitment to whole-child development make it a top choice for families seeking exceptional private education.
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St. Theodore Guerin High School
Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana
St. Theodore Guerin High School provides a faith-based college preparatory education serving Westfield and Hamilton County communities. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with numerous dual credit and Advanced Placement opportunities. Students benefit from modern facilities including science and technology labs, a performing arts center, and competitive athletic programs. The school emphasizes character development and service learning alongside academic excellence. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 and dedicated faculty, Guerin prepares students for success in college and beyond while fostering spiritual growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Westfield, Indiana
What are the primary private school options serving families in Westfield, Indiana, and what are their educational models?
Westfield, Indiana, is primarily served by a few notable private institutions, though many families also consider schools in the broader Indianapolis area. Within Westfield, Guerin Catholic High School is a prominent co-ed, college-preparatory school for grades 9-12 rooted in the Catholic faith. While not located directly in Westfield, The Orchard School in Indianapolis is a highly regarded independent, progressive school (Pre-K through 8th grade) that attracts many Westfield families. St. Theodore Guerin High School (now part of Guerin Catholic) is another Catholic option. For younger grades, many Westfield families also look at local Catholic elementary schools like St. Maria Goretti. The models range from faith-based to independent progressive, with a strong emphasis on college preparation and character development.
How does tuition for private schools in the Westfield, Indiana, area compare, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition in the Westfield area varies significantly by school and grade level. For example, Guerin Catholic High School's tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is approximately $15,000, while independent schools like The Orchard School can exceed $25,000 annually. Indiana offers several unique financial aid options that benefit Westfield residents. The most significant is the state's School Choice Scholarship (voucher) program, which provides income-eligible families with state funds to attend participating private schools. Additionally, the Indiana Tax Credit Scholarship program allows donors to fund scholarships and receive a state tax credit. Most schools also offer their own need-based financial aid. It's crucial to apply for aid early and check each school's participation in state programs.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Westfield, IN, students?
Private schools serving Westfield offer robust programs that leverage both their specific missions and proximity to Indianapolis. Guerin Catholic emphasizes its STEM initiatives, engineering pathways, and a comprehensive campus ministry program. Schools like The Orchard School are known for their project-based learning, outdoor education utilizing their 43-acre campus, and social-emotional learning curriculum. Many private high schools in the network offer extensive Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings, competitive athletic conferences (like the Circle City Conference), and specialized arts programs. A unique advantage for Westfield students is access to career-focused internships and cultural institutions in nearby Indianapolis, which many schools integrate into their curricula.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Westfield, Indiana, area?
The timeline for private school enrollment in the Westfield area is critical and often begins over a year in advance. Most schools, including Guerin Catholic and The Orchard School, have application deadlines in January or February for admission the following fall. The process typically includes: 1) Fall open houses and tours, 2) Submitting an application with fees by the winter deadline, 3) Student assessments or shadow days, 4) Submission of records and teacher recommendations, and 5) Admission decisions released in March. For schools participating in Indiana's voucher program, separate financial aid and voucher eligibility applications must be completed concurrently. We highly recommend Westfield families start their research and visits in the fall of the year prior to desired enrollment.
How do private schools in the Westfield area compare to the highly-rated public schools in Hamilton County?
This is a key consideration for Westfield families, as the public schools in Hamilton County, including Westfield Washington Schools, are consistently top-ranked in Indiana. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy and specific needs. Public schools offer a robust, tax-funded education with extensive AP courses, renowned athletic programs, and diverse extracurriculars. Private options typically offer smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students vs. 25-30+), a specific religious or values-based education, and alternative pedagogical approaches (like progressive or classical). For some families, the private school community size and focused mission outweigh the larger scale and resources of the public system. It's advisable to directly compare the specific programs, culture, and outcomes of schools like Guerin Catholic against Westfield High School to determine the best fit.