The Best Private Schools in Andover, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Andover. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
All Saints Catholic School
Diocese of Davenport
All Saints Catholic School is a premier private Catholic school serving PreK through 8th grade, known for its strong academic programs and faith-based learning environment. Founded in 2004, it features a dedicated faculty, modern facilities, and a curriculum that includes technology integration, arts, and sports. The school boasts high parent satisfaction, a vibrant community, and a focus on spiritual and academic development, making it a leading option for families in Andover and the Davenport region.
Programs:
Bettendorf Christian School
Independent Christian
Bettendorf Christian School offers a Christ-centered education from preschool to 8th grade, with a reputation for academic rigor and character development. Established in 1978, it provides a nurturing environment with updated facilities, including technology-integrated classrooms and sports programs. The school focuses on holistic student growth through extracurricular activities, high parent satisfaction, and a supportive community, serving families in Andover and the broader Quad Cities area.
Programs:
Clinton Christian School
Independent Christian
Clinton Christian School is a highly regarded private Christian school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Founded in 1974, it emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-based environment, featuring small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEM, arts, and athletics. The school is known for its strong community involvement, parent satisfaction, and modern facilities, making it a top choice for families in the Andover area and surrounding regions.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Andover, Iowa
What are the private school options for families living in Andover, Iowa, and are there any located directly in town?
Andover, Iowa, is a small rural community, so there are no private schools physically located within the town limits. However, families in Andover typically look to nearby cities for private education. The closest and most commonly considered options include Clinton Christian School in Clinton (approx. 20 miles away), Bettendorf Christian School in Bettendorf (approx. 45 miles away), and All Saints Catholic School in Davenport (approx. 40 miles away). Transportation is a key consideration, as most families will need to arrange for their child's commute to these schools in neighboring cities.
How does Iowa's "School Tuition Organization" (STO) tax credit program help with private school tuition for Andover residents?
Iowa's unique STO program is a significant financial consideration for Andover families. This program allows individuals and businesses to receive a state tax credit for donations to non-profit STOs, which then provide need-based tuition grants to students attending private schools. Families at schools like Clinton Christian or All Saints Catholic can apply for these grants. The program can substantially reduce the out-of-pocket tuition cost, making private school more accessible for Iowa residents, though availability of funds can vary annually. It's crucial to apply early through your chosen school's affiliated STO.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are available at the private schools serving Andover, IA, that might not be found in the local public district?
Given the small size of the Andover area public schools, the regional private options offer distinct programs. Clinton Christian School provides a strong Bible-integrated curriculum and may offer more individualized attention. Bettendorf Christian School emphasizes STEM and fine arts with dedicated facilities. All Saints Catholic School offers a classical education model and sacramental preparation within a faith-based environment. These schools often have more robust music, art, and foreign language programs at the elementary level compared to very small rural public districts. However, competitive athletics are typically more limited than in larger public schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Clinton Christian that serve Andover families?
For schools like Clinton Christian School, the enrollment process for the following academic year often begins in January or February. Priority is usually given to re-enrolling students and siblings, so Andover families interested in a new placement should initiate inquiries early in the calendar year. The process typically involves a campus tour, submission of an application, academic records from the previous school (e.g., Andover Elementary), and often a family interview. Some schools may have waiting lists for certain grades. It's highly recommended to contact the admissions office directly by early spring to understand specific deadlines and space availability for the commute from Andover.
For an Andover resident, what are the primary factors to consider when choosing between the local public school and a private school a significant distance away?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. The Andover area public schools are part of a very small district, offering close-knit community and minimal commute. Choosing a private school like those in Clinton or Bettendorf means a daily commute of 30-90 minutes round-trip, which impacts family logistics and student fatigue. Parents must weigh the desire for a specific religious education or academic program against this commute time and associated costs (fuel, vehicle wear). Additionally, consider the social aspect: your child will build friendships primarily in the school's city, not locally in Andover. The STO tuition assistance (see FAQ 2) can help offset tuition, but transportation remains a major, unique consideration for rural families.