Private Schools in Ottumwa, Iowa

John F. Kennedy Catholic School is Ottumwa's premier private educational institution, serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. As part of the Diocese of Davenport, the school provides a comprehensive Catholic education with strong emphasis on faith formation, academic excellence, and character development. The school features small class sizes, dedicated certified teachers, and a rigorous curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, science, language arts, and religious studies. Extracurricular offerings include music programs, athletics, and community service opportunities. The school maintains modern facilities with technology integration throughout classrooms and has a long-standing reputation for preparing students for success in high school and beyond.

Located in nearby Fairfield (approximately 45 minutes from Ottumwa), Maharishi School is a highly-regarded private institution serving students from preschool through 12th grade. The school is renowned for its unique Consciousness-Based Education approach that integrates Transcendental Meditation with rigorous academic programming. Students consistently achieve above national averages on standardized tests and gain acceptance to top-tier universities. The school offers exceptional STEM programs, championship-level athletics, comprehensive arts education, and state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. Many families from Ottumwa commute to attend this nationally recognized school known for developing well-rounded, stress-free learners.

Pella Christian Grade School, located approximately 40 minutes from Ottumwa in Pella, Iowa, provides exceptional Reformed Christian education for students in preschool through 8th grade. With nearly a century of educational excellence, the school integrates faith and learning across all subjects while maintaining high academic standards. The curriculum includes comprehensive literacy programs, advanced mathematics, hands-on science, technology integration, and biblical studies. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated specialty teachers for art, music, and physical education, and strong parent community involvement. Pella Christian has a long history of serving families from surrounding communities including Ottumwa, with transportation options and a reputation for preparing students academically and spiritually for high school success.