The Best Private Schools in Perry, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Perry. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Bergman Academy
Independent Private School
Bergman Academy is an acclaimed independent private school serving central Iowa families from Perry and surrounding communities. As an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Bergman provides a globally-focused education for students age 3 through 6th grade. The school features Spanish language immersion starting in preschool, comprehensive STEAM programs, and innovative learning spaces designed for hands-on exploration. With small class sizes averaging 15 students and a dedicated faculty, Bergman emphasizes inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and character development. The campus includes specialized science labs, art studios, outdoor learning environments, and technology-integrated classrooms that foster creativity and academic excellence.
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Dowling Catholic High School
Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools
Dowling Catholic High School is a premier Catholic college-preparatory school serving the greater Des Moines metro area, including Perry families. Founded in 1972, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 22 Advanced Placement courses and comprehensive STEM initiatives. The 60-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. With a student-teacher ratio of 15:1, Dowling emphasizes character formation alongside academic excellence through its Maroon & White mentoring program. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate and strong extracurricular offerings in athletics, fine arts, and service learning.
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Des Moines Christian School
Independent Christian School
Des Moines Christian School has been providing exceptional Christ-centered education to central Iowa communities including Perry for over seven decades. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum integrated with biblical worldview. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, fine arts facilities, and athletic complexes. Academic programs include Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment opportunities, and specialized tracks in STEM and humanities. With a strong emphasis on spiritual formation and community service, DMCS maintains small class sizes and personalized attention while offering robust extracurricular programs in athletics, music, drama, and student leadership.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Perry, Iowa
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Perry, Iowa, and are they located within the city itself?
Families in Perry, Iowa, have several well-regarded private school options, though it's important to note that the top schools are located in the broader Des Moines metro area, requiring a commute. The most prominent include Dowling Catholic High School (grades 9-12) in West Des Moines, Des Moines Christian School (PreK-12) in Urbandale, and Bergman Academy (PreK-8), also in Des Moines. Within Perry itself, private options are limited primarily to parochial preschools. Therefore, Perry parents seeking private K-12 education typically look to these nearby institutions, which actively enroll students from Dallas County. Transportation, often via carpool or school-provided bus routes from central locations, is a key logistical consideration.
How does the Iowa Tuition Grant and Tax Credit program benefit Perry families considering private high schools like Dowling Catholic?
The state of Iowa offers significant financial assistance to families choosing private education. The most direct benefit is the **Iowa Tuition Grant**, which is need-based and can provide over $7,000 annually per student toward tuition at accredited private schools. Additionally, the **School Tuition Organization (STO) Tax Credit** program allows donors to contribute to STOs (like the AIM fund for Dowling Catholic) and receive a 75% Iowa tax credit. These donations fund need-based scholarships. For a Perry family, this means applying for financial aid directly through the school (which packages these state resources) can substantially reduce the out-of-pocket cost, making schools in the metro area more accessible.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs draw Perry students to private schools in the Des Moines area?
Schools like Dowling Catholic, Des Moines Christian, and Bergman Academy offer specialized programs that may not be available in Perry's public district. Dowling is known for its extensive **STEM curriculum**, renowned performing arts, and championship athletic programs. Des Moines Christian offers a **comprehensive Biblical worldview integration** across all subjects and strong college preparatory tracks. Bergman Academy focuses on **inquiry-based learning** and gifted education, with a low student-to-teacher ratio. For Perry students interested in specific advanced sciences, competitive robotics, intensive faith formation, or tailored gifted support, these programs provide compelling reasons for the daily commute.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for a Perry family applying to a Des Moines-area private school for the following fall?
The timeline is crucial, as spaces are limited. The process typically begins **in the early fall** (September-October) a year prior to desired enrollment. Families should attend open houses, often held in October and November. **Application deadlines** for the following academic year are usually in January or February. Key steps include: submitting an application, providing records from the Perry Community School District, teacher recommendations, and completing a family interview or student assessment. **Financial aid applications** run concurrently, with deadlines in the spring. Notification of acceptance and financial aid awards usually goes out by March. Starting early is essential, especially for competitive entry grades.
For a family living in Perry, what are the practical considerations when comparing the local public school district with a private school in the Des Moines metro?
The comparison extends beyond academics. Key considerations include: **Commute Time** (a 30-45 minute drive each way to West Des Moines/Urbandale), **Transportation Costs**, and **Family Logistics**. **Community Integration**: Perry public schools offer deep local community ties and convenience for extracurricular participation. Private schools offer a distinct **community based on faith or educational philosophy** but may require extra effort for Perry students to engage in after-school activities due to distance. **Cost**: Weighing private tuition (even with aid) against no-cost public education is fundamental. **Class Size & Offerings**: Perry High School provides robust programs, but private options may offer smaller classes or niche specialties. The decision often hinges on how much a family values a specific private school's mission versus the convenience and community of the local public system.