The Best Private Schools in Combs, Kentucky
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Combs. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Hazard Perry County Christian School
Independent Christian School
Hazard Perry County Christian School is a highly-regarded private Christian school located just 8 miles from Combs in Hazard. The school serves students from Pre-K through 12th grade with a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. Known for its strong academic foundation and Christian values integration, HPCCS offers small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a well-rounded education including competitive athletics, fine arts programs, and community service opportunities. The school maintains high academic standards with many graduates attending competitive colleges and universities.
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June Buchanan School
Independent College Preparatory School
June Buchanan School is a prestigious independent college preparatory school located approximately 15 miles from Combs. Serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade, JBS offers a rigorous academic program with Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities through partnerships with local colleges. The school features a beautiful campus with modern facilities, strong athletics programs, and comprehensive arts education. Known for its personalized attention and high college acceptance rates, June Buchanan School provides exceptional educational opportunities for Eastern Kentucky students.
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Riverside Christian School
Independent Christian School
Riverside Christian School is a well-established private Christian institution located near Combs in the Pippa Passes area. The school provides education from Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and spiritual development. Riverside offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, sciences, literature, and biblical studies, complemented by competitive sports teams and vibrant fine arts programs. The school is known for its family atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for college and life beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Combs, Kentucky
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Combs, Kentucky?
While Combs itself is a small, unincorporated community, families in the area typically look to nearby towns for private education. The leading options include the June Buchanan School in Pippa Passes, known for its college-preparatory curriculum and association with Alice Lloyd College; Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, offering a faith-based education; and Hazard Perry County Christian School in Hazard, providing a Christian environment with a focus on academics and character. These schools serve the broader Perry and Knott County region, with most providing transportation or carpool networks for students from Combs.
How does tuition at private schools in the Combs, KY area compare, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition in this region is generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas, but it varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $5,000 to $9,000 annually. Kentucky offers specific financial aid opportunities that Combs-area families can utilize. The most significant is the Education Opportunity Account (EOA) program, a tax-credit scholarship for families whose income is up to 175% of the federal free-and-reduced-price lunch threshold, which can be applied to participating private schools. Additionally, individual schools like June Buchanan often have their own need-based scholarships and sibling discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Combs, Kentucky offer that reflect the local culture and needs?
Schools in this Appalachian region often integrate local heritage and practical skills into their programs. The June Buchanan School, for instance, emphasizes leadership and community service through its "Purpose Road" curriculum and offers unique dual-credit opportunities with Alice Lloyd College. Riverside Christian and Hazard Perry County Christian Schools often incorporate agricultural science, outdoor education, and Appalachian studies into their learning. Furthermore, given the area's focus on healthcare and trades, these schools frequently have strong partnerships with local technical colleges and healthcare centers for career exploration.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Combs, Kentucky, and when should parents apply?
The enrollment process for schools like June Buchanan, Riverside Christian, and Hazard Perry County Christian usually begins in January or February for the following fall semester. Priority application deadlines are often in March. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview. Due to small class sizes, especially in the higher grades, spaces can be limited. Parents in Combs are advised to initiate inquiries by November or December to ensure they meet deadlines and can arrange any necessary entrance testing or shadow visits, which are highly encouraged.
For a family in Combs, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (Perry County Schools) and a private school?
The decision hinges on several factors specific to the Combs area. Perry County public schools offer proximity, no tuition, and a wide range of federal-funded programs. Private options offer smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), a specific religious or value-based foundation if desired, and often a more intensive college-prep focus. A major practical consideration is transportation, as the private schools are located in neighboring towns. Academically, parents should compare standardized test scores, college acceptance lists, and specific program offerings like advanced placement or special education services. Many families in the region value the close-knit, disciplined community of the private schools as a significant factor.
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