The Best Private Schools in Clive, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Clive. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Dowling Catholic High School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Des Moines
Dowling Catholic High School is a highly acclaimed private Catholic high school serving the Clive area with a reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive student development. It offers a rigorous curriculum including over 20 Advanced Placement courses, strong STEM programs, and extensive fine arts and athletic opportunities. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive community focused on faith-based education. Parent and student reviews frequently highlight dedicated teachers, a safe environment, and high satisfaction with college preparedness.
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Des Moines Christian School
Independent Christian School
Des Moines Christian School is a top-rated private Christian school providing a seamless K-12 education that emphasizes academic rigor within a faith-based framework. It features a well-rounded curriculum with Advanced Placement options, robust athletic teams, and vibrant arts programs. The school is known for its small class sizes, high teacher-student ratios, and strong community involvement. Parents consistently praise its safe, nurturing environment, high academic standards, and the development of character and leadership skills in students.
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Valley Lutheran School
Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
Valley Lutheran School offers a respected private education for students from preschool through 8th grade, serving the Clive community with a focus on academic achievement and spiritual growth. The school provides a balanced curriculum rooted in Lutheran values, including music, sports, and technology integration. With dedicated faculty and modern facilities, it emphasizes individualized attention and a family-oriented atmosphere. Parent reviews frequently note high satisfaction with the school's communication, caring staff, and effective preparation for high school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Clive, Iowa
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Clive, Iowa, and are they located within the city limits?
While Clive itself is primarily a residential suburb, it is served by several highly-regarded private schools in the greater Des Moines metro area. The most prominent options include Dowling Catholic High School (in West Des Moines), Des Moines Christian School (in Urbandale), and Valley Lutheran School (in West Des Moines). Families in Clive typically have convenient access to these schools via major routes like I-80/35 and Hickman Road. It's important to note that most private schools in this area do not have strict geographic boundaries, so Clive residents are eligible to apply to any of them, though transportation is generally the family's responsibility.
How does the tuition for private schools near Clive, IA, compare, and are there Iowa-specific financial aid options?
Tuition in the Clive area varies by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range from approximately $6,000-$8,000 annually for elementary grades at schools like Valley Lutheran or Des Moines Christian, to around $12,000-$14,000 for high school at Dowling Catholic. A significant Iowa-specific benefit is the **School Tuition Organization (STO) Tax Credit Program**. Iowa taxpayers can donate to an STO (like the AIM STO for Dowling or others) and receive a 75% state tax credit, which funds need-based scholarships for private school students. Many Clive families utilize this program to reduce net tuition costs. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Clive students?
Private schools serving the Clive community offer distinct specializations. **Dowling Catholic** is known for its extensive AP curriculum, renowned STEM programs, and a wide array of athletics and activities competing in Iowa's largest class. **Des Moines Christian** offers a comprehensive, faith-integrated curriculum with strong arts and college-prep programs. **Valley Lutheran** provides a tight-knit, Christ-centered environment with a focus on individualized attention. A notable feature for Clive families is the proximity to Des Moines' cultural and scientific institutions, which these schools often leverage for partnerships, internships, and field trips not always available in more rural Iowa districts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Clive/Des Moines metro area?
The enrollment process for private schools near Clive is competitive, and planning ahead is crucial. Most schools, including Dowling Catholic, Des Moines Christian, and Valley Lutheran, begin their application cycles in the **fall (September-October)** for the following academic year. The process usually involves an application form, student and family interviews, submission of past academic records, and often a placement assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall. It is highly recommended for Clive parents to initiate inquiries 12-18 months in advance, especially for entry-level grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 9th grade), as spaces can fill quickly. Sibling and legacy applicants often receive priority.
For a family moving to Clive, how do the local private schools compare to the highly-rated Clive public schools (Waukee Community School District)?
This is a key consideration. Clive is part of the **Waukee Community School District**, which is consistently top-ranked in Iowa for its public schools. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy and specific needs. Private options offer smaller class sizes, a specific religious foundation (Catholic or Lutheran/Christian), and a close-knit community identity. The public schools offer vast resources, extensive elective and AP choices, and no tuition. Many Clive families choose private schools for faith-based education or a particular program, while others value the excellent, tax-funded public system. It's common for families to use Clive's public elementary schools and then consider a private high school like Dowling for 9-12, given its distinct college-prep environment and athletic pedigree.
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