The Best Private Schools in Urbana, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Urbana. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Xavier High School
Archdiocese of Dubuque
Xavier High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Cedar Rapids metro area, including Urbana families. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 90% of graduates typically attending four-year colleges. Features include modern STEM labs, comprehensive athletic facilities, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1 and offers numerous Advanced Placement courses.
Programs:
LaSalle Catholic School
LaSalle Catholic School System
LaSalle Catholic School serves students from preschool through 8th grade and draws families from Urbana and surrounding communities. The school provides a strong foundation in core academics while integrating Catholic values throughout the curriculum. Features include modern technology labs, dedicated art and music programs, and comprehensive athletic opportunities. The school emphasizes character development and community service alongside academic excellence.
Programs:
Columbus Catholic School
Archdiocese of Dubuque
Columbus Catholic School offers a comprehensive PreK-12 education serving families throughout Northeast Iowa, including the Urbana area. The school provides a faith-based learning environment with strong college preparatory programs at the high school level. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and technology integration across all grade levels. The school maintains a strong tradition of academic achievement and community involvement with numerous extracurricular activities and service opportunities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Urbana, Iowa
What are the private school options available for families in Urbana, Iowa, and what grade levels do they serve?
Urbana, Iowa, is served by a network of Catholic schools that form the Cedar Valley Catholic Schools (CVCS) system. The primary options include Xavier High School (grades 9-12) in nearby Cedar Rapids, and two elementary/middle schools: LaSalle Catholic School (PreK-8) in Cedar Rapids and Columbus Catholic School (PreK-8) in Waterloo. While not located directly within Urbana's city limits, these are the designated and accessible private institutions for families in the Urbana community. This structure means Urbana families typically choose a K-8 school and then feed into Xavier for high school, providing a continuous, faith-based education.
How does tuition work for Cedar Valley Catholic Schools, and are there financial aid options for Urbana, Iowa residents?
Tuition for Cedar Valley Catholic Schools is set annually and varies between the elementary (LaSalle, Columbus) and high school (Xavier) levels. A key feature for Iowa residents is the ability to utilize **School Tuition Organization (STO) tax credits**. Through programs like the AIM (Access to Improved Education) STO, donors receive an Iowa tax credit for contributions that fund need-based tuition grants. Urbana families are encouraged to apply for these grants during the financial aid application process. Additionally, multi-child discounts and parish subsidy programs for active members of supporting Catholic parishes can significantly reduce the net cost.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools serving Urbana, Iowa, offer compared to local public schools?
The Cedar Valley Catholic Schools offer distinct programs rooted in their faith-based mission. Xavier High School is known for its strong **STEM programs**, including advanced placement courses and partnerships with local industries, and a comprehensive **1:1 technology initiative**. A unique differentiator is the required **theology curriculum** at all grade levels and a focus on service-learning hours. For younger students, LaSalle and Columbus Catholic Schools integrate faith into daily learning and often have smaller class sizes than some area public districts. Many families also value the consistent moral framework and community environment from kindergarten through 12th grade.
What is the enrollment process and timeline for families in Urbana looking to join LaSalle, Columbus, or Xavier?
The enrollment process for Cedar Valley Catholic Schools typically begins in **January or February** for the following academic year. The first step is to attend an open house or schedule a shadow day at the desired school (LaSalle, Columbus, or Xavier). Application forms are then submitted, often with a fee. For the elementary schools, priority is frequently given to siblings of current students and active members of supporting Catholic parishes. For Xavier High School, placement tests are usually required for incoming freshmen. Urbana families are advised to connect directly with the admissions office of each school in the fall prior to their desired enrollment year to get specific dates and requirements.
For a family in Urbana, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation to these private schools located in Cedar Rapids and Waterloo?
Transportation is a key logistical factor for Urbana families. The Cedar Valley Catholic Schools **do not provide district-wide bus transportation** from Urbana. Families are responsible for arranging their own transportation, which often involves carpooling with other local families—a great way to build community. The commute to LaSalle or Xavier in Cedar Rapids is approximately 20-25 minutes, while the drive to Columbus in Waterloo is about 30 minutes. Many parents coordinate schedules to share driving duties. It's important to factor this daily commute time and associated costs into your decision when considering these private school options.