The Best Private Schools in Monument, Kansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Monument. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Thomas More Prep-Marian
Catholic Diocese of Salina
Thomas More Prep-Marian is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students in grades 6-12. Located approximately 30 miles from Monument, TMP-Marian offers a rigorous academic program with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. The school features comprehensive athletic programs, extensive fine arts offerings, and a strong campus ministry program. With a focus on character development and academic excellence, TMP-Marian has a long history of preparing students for college success. The campus includes modern facilities, science labs, and athletic complexes.
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St. Paul Lutheran School
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
St. Paul Lutheran School provides Christ-centered education for students from preschool through 8th grade. Located in Colby, approximately 45 miles from Monument, this accredited Lutheran school offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates faith and learning. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong emphasis on both academic and spiritual development. Programs include music education, physical education, and technology integration. The school community is known for its family atmosphere and strong parent involvement.
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Wakefield Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Salina
Wakefield Catholic School serves students from preschool through 6th grade with a faith-based education focused on academic excellence and character formation. Located approximately 35 miles from Monument, this small Catholic school offers personalized attention with low student-teacher ratios. The curriculum includes strong foundational academics, religious education, music, art, and physical education. The school is known for its tight-knit community atmosphere and commitment to developing well-rounded students. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and shared spaces with the parish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Monument, Kansas
What are the private school options for K-12 education in and around Monument, Kansas?
Monument itself is a very small community, so most private school options are located in nearby towns. The primary options include Thomas More Prep-Marian in Hays (about 30 miles away), which is a Catholic, co-educational junior-senior high school (grades 7-12). For younger students, St. Paul Lutheran School in Hays offers a Christian education from preschool through 8th grade. Another option is Wakefield Catholic School in Wakefield (approximately 45 miles away), serving grades K-6. Families in Monument typically commute for private education, making transportation an important local consideration.
How does the cost of private school tuition in the Monument, Kansas area compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for the schools serving Monument families is generally below the Kansas state average for private schools, reflecting the rural cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, annual tuition at Thomas More Prep-Marian is approximately $6,000-$7,000, while elementary schools like St. Paul Lutheran are typically $3,000-$5,000. All these schools offer need-based financial aid, and Kansas has the *Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program*, which can provide scholarships for eligible families to attend private schools. Additionally, many schools have parish subsidy programs for active church members.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools serving Monument, KS students?
Given the rural setting, these schools often provide unique opportunities. Thomas More Prep-Marian (TMP) features a strong agriculture program and FFA chapter, aligning with the regional economy, alongside college-prep academics and a renowned vocal music program. St. Paul Lutheran emphasizes a STEM-focused curriculum and character education. A notable aspect for Monument families is that these smaller private schools often have robust athletics and activities where participation rates are high, allowing students to easily be involved in multiple sports, music, and academic clubs compared to larger urban schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Monument, Kansas region?
Enrollment for the following academic year typically opens in January or February at schools like TMP and St. Paul Lutheran. However, due to small class sizes and limited seats, especially in the lower grades, it is advisable to inquire as early as the fall prior. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, a pastor or teacher recommendation (for religious schools), and a family interview. For Monument residents, an important part of the process is discussing transportation plans, as most schools do not provide district-wide bus service, though some may have established carpool networks with other rural families.
How do the private schools near Monument, KS support the transition from a small rural elementary school to a college-preparatory high school?
This is a key strength of the local private school continuum. Schools like St. Paul Lutheran and Wakefield Catholic focus on building a strong foundational curriculum with small class sizes, ensuring individual attention. They often have articulation agreements with Thomas More Prep-Marian, facilitating smooth academic and social transitions. TMP actively recruits from these feeder schools and hosts visitation days for middle school students. Furthermore, the close-knit, values-based community across these schools helps students from Monument maintain a consistent support network even as they move to a secondary school in Hays, easing the adjustment.