The Best Private Schools in Quinter, Kansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Quinter. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary's Catholic School
Salina Diocese Catholic Schools
St. Mary's Catholic School in Hays serves students from across western Kansas, including Quinter families. This highly-rated Catholic school offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith formation and academic excellence. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and a robust curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, science labs, and literacy programs. Extracurricular activities include competitive sports, music programs, and community service opportunities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong academic preparation for high school.
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St. Francis Community School
Victoria Catholic Schools
St. Francis Community School in Victoria serves families throughout the region, including Quinter students. This Pre-K through 12th grade Catholic school offers a comprehensive education with particular strengths in agricultural science and technology integration. The school features modern facilities including computer labs, science classrooms, and athletic complexes. Academic programs include college preparatory courses, vocational training, and dual credit opportunities. The school maintains strong traditions in athletics, particularly in basketball and volleyball, while providing a faith-based education environment. Parents value the school's family atmosphere, academic rigor, and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for future success.
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Thomas More Prep-Marian
Salina Diocese Catholic Schools
Thomas More Prep-Marian is a renowned Catholic college-preparatory school serving students from across western Kansas, including Quinter. As both a day and boarding school, TMP offers a rigorous academic curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, dual credit options, and comprehensive college counseling. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, athletic facilities, and technology-integrated classrooms. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate and strong athletic traditions in multiple sports. Families appreciate the small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and strong community values that prepare students for success in college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Quinter, Kansas
What are the private school options for families living in or near Quinter, Kansas?
Quinter itself is home to St. Mary's Catholic School, which serves grades Pre-K through 6. For middle and high school, families in Quinter commonly look to nearby Hays, Kansas, which is about a 30-minute drive. There you will find Thomas More Prep-Marian (TMP-Marian), a Catholic college-preparatory school for grades 6-12, and St. Francis Community School, a private K-12 school. This creates a common educational pathway where students may attend St. Mary's for elementary and then transition to a school in Hays for secondary education.
How does tuition at private schools in the Quinter, Kansas area compare, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition varies by school and grade level. St. Mary's Catholic School in Quinter typically has a lower tuition rate given its smaller scale and parish support, often ranging from $2,000-$3,500 per year. Schools in Hays like Thomas More Prep-Marian have higher tuition, generally between $6,000-$8,000 annually for parish members and more for non-members. Most schools, including St. Francis Community School, offer financial aid, scholarships (often through the Diocese of Salina), and multi-child discounts. Kansas also has the Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program, which can provide scholarships for eligible families to attend private schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Quinter students offer?
The schools provide distinct programs shaped by their missions. St. Mary's in Quinter offers a strong foundational education with integrated Catholic values. Thomas More Prep-Marian in Hays is known for its college-prep curriculum, robust athletics (competing in the NCAA league), and unique programs like its Junior High House System. St. Francis Community School offers a non-denominational Christian environment with a focus on individual student development and smaller class sizes. For Quinter families, a notable advantage is access to specialized secondary programs in Hays, such as advanced STEM courses, fine arts, and competitive sports, without having to relocate.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary's in Quinter and TMP-Marian in Hays?
Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically opens in January or February. For St. Mary's Catholic School in Quinter, the process is straightforward, often involving a registration form, birth certificate, baptismal certificate (if applicable), and a registration fee. Priority is usually given to parish members and existing families. For Thomas More Prep-Marian, the process may include an application, transcripts, recommendations, and a family interview. It's crucial to apply early, especially for incoming 6th or 9th graders, as spaces can be limited. Both schools encourage campus visits, which are particularly important for Quinter families considering the commute to Hays.
For a family in Quinter, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school option?
The decision often centers on educational philosophy, community, and logistics. Quinter USD 293 public schools offer the convenience of a local K-12 system with no tuition. Private options involve a faith-based education (Catholic or Christian) and often smaller class sizes. A major practical consideration is the commute; choosing St. Mary's for elementary keeps children in town, but opting for TMP-Marian or St. Francis for secondary education requires daily transportation to Hays (roughly 25 miles each way). Families must weigh the value of a specific religious and academic environment against the time and cost involved. Many Quinter families find a hybrid approach—using the local public school for certain sports or activities while attending a private school—to be a workable solution.