The Best Private Schools in Havana, Kansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Havana. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Patrick Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Wichita
St. Patrick Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the southeastern Kansas region, including Havana. Founded in 1959, this parochial school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning and academic excellence. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. With modern facilities and a supportive community environment, St. Patrick consistently receives high marks from parents for its quality education and character development programs.
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Independence Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Independence Christian Academy serves students throughout Montgomery County and surrounding areas, including Havana families seeking quality Christian education. Established in 1999, ICA offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum from kindergarten through 12th grade with a strong biblical worldview integration. The academy features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and diverse extracurricular opportunities including competitive sports, fine arts programs, and community service initiatives. Parents consistently praise the school's academic rigor, dedicated teachers, and strong sense of community.
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Southeast Kansas Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Southeast Kansas Christian Academy provides quality private education to students throughout the region, including Havana residents. Founded in 2009, SEKCA offers comprehensive education from preschool through 12th grade with a Christ-centered approach to learning. The academy features a rigorous academic program including dual credit opportunities with local colleges, advanced placement courses, and comprehensive STEM education. With modern facilities, competitive athletic programs, and strong arts education, SEKCA has built a reputation for academic excellence and character development. The school serves multiple counties in southeastern Kansas with transportation options available for regional students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Havana, Kansas
What are the private school options for families living in or near Havana, Kansas?
For families in the rural Havana, Kansas area, private school options are primarily located in nearby communities. The closest and most commonly considered schools include St. Patrick Catholic School in Parsons (about 15 miles away), Independence Christian Academy in Independence (approximately 25 miles away), and Southeast Kansas Christian Academy in Galena (roughly 30 miles away). There are no private schools physically located within the small city limits of Havana itself, so transportation or relocation considerations are a key part of the decision-making process for local parents.
How does the tuition at Southeast Kansas private schools compare to state averages, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Havana region is generally below the national average, reflecting the lower cost of living in rural Kansas. For the 2023-2024 school year, area schools like St. Patrick Catholic School and Independence Christian Academy typically have tuition ranging from $3,500 to $6,000 annually for parishioners or members, with slightly higher rates for non-affiliated families. Kansas offers the Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program, which can provide scholarships for eligible students to attend private schools. Additionally, most local schools offer parish subsidies, multi-child discounts, and need-based financial aid to help make private education accessible.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Havana, KS, offer that differentiate them from public schools?
Private schools in the Southeast Kansas region emphasize specific educational philosophies and programs. St. Patrick Catholic School integrates faith-based learning and character education throughout its curriculum. Independence Christian Academy often provides a classical Christian education model with a strong emphasis on rhetoric and logic. Southeast Kansas Christian Academy focuses on a Bible-centered curriculum and may offer smaller class sizes than the rural public school districts, allowing for more individualized attention. These schools also typically have mandatory participation in religious studies, which is a key differentiator from the public Havana Unified School District 306.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Havana, KS, community?
Enrollment for the limited seats in private schools near Havana often begins as early as January or February for the following academic year. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing academic records from the current school (like Havana Grade School), a family interview, and sometimes a student assessment. For faith-based schools, verification of parish membership or a statement of faith may be required. Given the small size of these schools, it is highly recommended that Havana families initiate the process early, as some grades may have waiting lists. Many schools also host open houses in the fall and winter for prospective families.
For a family in Havana, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation to these private schools?
Transportation is a significant logistical factor, as none of the private schools are in Havana. The Havana Unified School District does not provide busing to private schools outside its boundaries. Therefore, families must arrange for daily transportation to Parsons, Independence, or Galena, which can mean a round trip of 30 to 60 miles daily. Some families form carpools with others in the Havana area. A few schools, like St. Patrick, may have limited bus routes from specific nearby towns, but not typically from Havana itself. This commute time and cost must be factored into the overall decision alongside tuition.