The Best Private Schools in Lexington, Kentucky
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lexington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Lexington School
Independent School
The Lexington School is a highly regarded independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Known for its rigorous academic program and nurturing environment, the school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic complexes. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, and graduates consistently gain admission to top secondary schools. Extracurricular offerings include competitive athletics, robotics, drama, and community service programs.
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Lexington Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Lexington
Lexington Catholic High School is a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory school serving grades 9-12. The school combines strong academic programming with faith-based education, offering 22 Advanced Placement courses and a robust STEM curriculum. The campus includes modern science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. Student life features over 40 clubs and organizations, competitive sports teams, and community service opportunities. The school maintains a 98% college acceptance rate with graduates attending prestigious universities nationwide.
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Sayre School
Independent School
Sayre School is Lexington's oldest independent school, offering education from preschool through 12th grade. As an International Baccalaureate World School, Sayre provides a globally-focused curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. The historic downtown campus features modern academic facilities, art studios, science labs, and athletic spaces. The school offers a comprehensive arts program and competitive athletics in 14 sports. With small class sizes and individualized attention, Sayre prepares students for top colleges while fostering leadership and community engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lexington, Kentucky
What are the main types of private schools available in Lexington, KY, and how do they differ?
Lexington offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily falling into three categories: independent non-sectarian, Catholic/Christian, and specialized preparatory schools. Top institutions like The Lexington School and Sayre School are independent, college-preparatory day schools known for rigorous academics and extensive extracurriculars. Lexington Catholic High School provides a faith-based education integrated with a strong academic curriculum. Lexington is also home to smaller parochial schools (e.g., St. Peter and Paul Catholic School) and schools with specific educational philosophies. The key differences lie in religious affiliation, curriculum focus, school culture, and tuition structure, allowing parents to find a match for their child's needs and family values.
How does tuition for private schools in Lexington, KY, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition for Lexington's premier private K-12 schools typically ranges from approximately $12,000 to $25,000+ annually, which is generally at or above the Kentucky private school average due to the city's concentration of high-demand institutions. However, robust financial aid and tuition assistance programs are a hallmark of the Lexington private school community. Most schools, including The Lexington School, Sayre, and Lexington Catholic, offer need-based aid, and some have merit scholarships. Kentucky's unique "Lexington Leadership Foundation" also administers tax-credit scholarships for lower-income families through the state's Education Opportunity Account program, providing additional financial pathways for eligible students in Fayette County.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Lexington private schools offer that leverage the city's local resources?
Lexington private schools deeply integrate the city's identity as the "Horse Capital of the World" and a center for healthcare and arts into their programs. Many offer equine science courses, partnerships with Keeneland or the Kentucky Horse Park, and riding teams. Proximity to the University of Kentucky (UK) enables advanced STEM partnerships, research opportunities for high school students, and access to UK's libraries and facilities. Schools like Sayre have renowned visual and performing arts programs that connect with Lexington's vibrant arts scene. Furthermore, community service programs often focus on local issues, partnering with organizations like the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital or local sustainability initiatives.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Lexington, and when should we start?
The admission process for top Lexington schools like The Lexington School, Sayre, and Lexington Catholic is structured and often begins 12-18 months before the desired entry date. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically in the fall), submitting applications by January/February for the following academic year, student visits/testing, and family interviews. Notification dates are usually in March. For kindergarten and other high-demand entry grades, starting the process in the fall of the prior year is crucial. Many schools also have waitlists. It's highly recommended to engage with schools early, as some offer limited spots for non-sibling applicants, especially in the early grades.
For families moving to the area, how do the top private schools in Lexington compare to the highly-rated Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS)?
This is a key consideration in Lexington, where FCPS includes several nationally ranked high schools like Dunbar and Lafayette. The choice often hinges on educational philosophy and specific needs. Private schools offer smaller class sizes (often 15-18 students vs. 25+ in public), more individualized attention, and distinct curricula (e.g., International Baccalaureate at Sayre, or a specific religious framework). They may also have more flexibility in programming. FCPS provides excellent academic options, diverse populations, and no tuition. Private schools require a significant financial investment but offer a consistent community and mission-driven education from kindergarten through 12th grade, whereas FCPS students may attend different schools for elementary, middle, and high school based on zones.
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