The Best Private Schools in Johnston, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Johnston. 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 top-rated private Catholic college-preparatory school serving the Des Moines metropolitan area, including Johnston. It is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, with over 20 Advanced Placement courses, strong STEM programs, and extensive extracurricular activities in athletics, fine arts, and service learning. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. With a 100% college acceptance rate and high parent satisfaction, it consistently ranks as one of Iowa's best private schools.
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St. Augustine Catholic School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Des Moines
St. Augustine Catholic School provides a nurturing, faith-based education for students from preschool through 8th grade, with many families from Johnston attending. It focuses on academic rigor within a Catholic framework, offering programs in STEM, music, art, and technology. The school features updated classrooms, a library, and playgrounds, with an emphasis on small class sizes and individualized attention. Highly rated for parent satisfaction and community involvement, it prepares students academically and morally for high school and beyond.
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Des Moines Christian School
Independent Christian School
Des Moines Christian School offers a comprehensive Christ-centered education from kindergarten to 12th grade, serving families in Johnston and the wider metro area. It emphasizes academic excellence with a college-preparatory curriculum, integrated biblical teachings, and programs in fine arts, STEM, and competitive sports. The school boasts modern facilities, small class sizes, and a strong community atmosphere, leading to high parent and student satisfaction. It is accredited and known for its dedicated faculty and well-rounded student development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Johnston, Iowa
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Johnston, Iowa?
While Johnston itself is primarily served by its highly-rated public school district, families seeking private education typically look to neighboring areas in the Des Moines metro. The most prominent options include Dowling Catholic High School (in West Des Moines) for grades 9-12, Des Moines Christian School (in Urbandale) for PreK-12, and St. Augustine Catholic School (in Des Moines) for PreK-8. Many Johnston families choose these schools for their religious foundations, college preparatory curricula, and smaller class sizes. Transportation is a key consideration, as these schools are a short commute from Johnston.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Johnston, IA area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Iowa?
Tuition varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $6,500 to $12,000+ annually for day schools. Des Moines Christian and St. Augustine are generally on the lower end, while Dowling Catholic is on the higher end. A critical Iowa-specific benefit is the **Student Tuition Organization (STO) Tax Credit program**. Iowa taxpayers can donate to an STO (like AIM for Dowling or others) and receive a 75% state tax credit, which funds need-based tuition grants for families. All major private schools in the area participate, making private education more accessible for Johnston residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Johnston, Iowa offer that differentiate them?
Schools in the Des Moines metro offer specialized programs that attract Johnston families. Dowling Catholic is renowned for its **Maranatha Program** for high-ability learners, extensive AP course offerings, and elite athletics (often competing against Johnston public schools). Des Moines Christian provides a comprehensive **STEM program** and a strong fine arts curriculum. St. Augustine offers a classical, faith-based education in the Catholic tradition. A notable advantage for Johnston students is access to these focused programs without needing to move, though they may not have the same breadth of career-tech offerings as the large Johnston Public Schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools like Dowling Catholic for a Johnston student?
The process for Johnston students is similar to that for all metro applicants but requires early planning due to demand. For 9th grade entry at Dowling Catholic, the process begins in the **fall of the student's 8th grade year** with open houses and shadow visits. Application deadlines are typically in early winter (January/February). The process includes submitting academic records, teacher recommendations, and often taking a placement exam. Admissions decisions are made in the spring. It's highly advised for Johnston families to engage with the admissions office over a year in advance, especially to understand transportation logistics and to apply for STO financial aid concurrently.
As a parent in Johnston, how should I weigh the decision between our excellent public schools and a private school in the metro area?
This is a common consideration in Johnston. The Johnston Community School District is consistently ranked among Iowa's best, offering robust academics, arts, and athletics. The decision often hinges on **educational philosophy and specific family values**. Families may choose a private school for a specific religious formation, a particular pedagogical approach (e.g., classical), or a perceived tighter-knit community. Conversely, staying in Johnston Public Schools offers the convenience of neighborhood schools, no tuition, and a wide array of programs. Many families visit both their assigned Johnston school and their private options, noting that private school may involve a commute and require active financial planning using Iowa's STO program.