The Best Private Schools in Paintsville, Kentucky
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Paintsville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Paintsville Christian School
Independent Christian School
Paintsville Christian School is a highly-regarded private institution known for its rigorous academic curriculum integrated with Christian values. It offers small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, dedicated certified faculty, and a focus on college readiness. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, a gymnasium, athletic fields, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. Extracurricular programs include competitive sports (basketball, volleyball), music ensembles, drama productions, and community service initiatives. Parent satisfaction is high due to its strong community involvement and consistent academic results, with many graduates attending top colleges.
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St. Mary School
Catholic Diocese of Lexington
St. Mary School provides a faith-based education emphasizing academic excellence, character development, and spiritual growth. It serves students from pre-K through 8th grade with a curriculum that includes core subjects, sacramental preparation, and hands-on STEM activities. The school features a well-equipped library, computer lab, playground, and collaborative learning spaces. Extracurriculars include choir, basketball, cheerleading, and parish-based events. With experienced teachers and a supportive parent community, it has a reputation for fostering a safe, nurturing environment and strong student outcomes.
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Prestonsburg Christian School
Independent Christian Education
Prestonsburg Christian School is a regional private school serving students from Paintsville and surrounding areas, offering a balanced curriculum with college preparatory courses, including AP options. It boasts accredited programs, certified teachers, and a focus on individualized learning. Facilities include smart classrooms, a science lab, gymnasium, art studio, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities encompass basketball, soccer, music, drama, and academic clubs. The school is praised for its family-like atmosphere, high parent satisfaction, and track record of students succeeding in higher education and careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Paintsville, Kentucky
What are the primary private school options available for families in Paintsville, Kentucky, and what are their core affiliations?
In Paintsville, Kentucky, families have a few key private school options, each with distinct characteristics. **Paintsville Christian School** is a private, non-denominational Christian school offering a Bible-based curriculum from preschool through high school. **St. Mary School**, located in Paintsville, is a Catholic school serving students in preschool through 8th grade, providing education within the traditions of the Catholic faith. While **Prestonsburg Christian School** is a popular choice for some families in the region, it is located in neighboring Prestonsburg (approximately 15 miles away) and represents a commuting option for Johnson County residents. The availability is more limited compared to larger cities, making early research and visits essential.
How does tuition at private schools in Paintsville, KY, typically compare to state averages, and are there any Kentucky-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for private schools in the Paintsville area is generally below the national private school average, reflecting the local cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at local schools like Paintsville Christian and St. Mary often ranges from approximately $4,500 to $7,500 annually for elementary grades, with higher rates for secondary levels. A key Kentucky-specific financial consideration is the **Education Opportunity Account (EOA) program**, a tax-credit scholarship available for families in counties with a population over 90,000. While Johnson County does not currently qualify, advocating for or staying informed about potential legislative changes is important. Local schools typically offer their own need-based scholarships, sibling discounts, and payment plans. Additionally, Kentucky's **Section 529 "BEST" Savings Plan** funds can be used for K-12 private school tuition.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Paintsville private schools offer that leverage the local community and culture?
Private schools in Paintsville often integrate Appalachian culture and community values into their programs. **Paintsville Christian School**, for example, may emphasize agricultural science or local history projects that connect students to Eastern Kentucky's heritage. **St. Mary School** incorporates Catholic social teachings with service projects focused on local outreach within Johnson County. Given the region's strengths, programs often emphasize music, the arts, and hands-on learning. Furthermore, due to smaller class sizes, these schools can offer personalized academic support and strong STEM foundations, sometimes with partnerships from local businesses or healthcare providers like the nearby Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center. Athletics often feature basketball, baseball, and volleyball, with strong community support.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Paintsville, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment process for Paintsville's private schools usually begins in the winter or early spring (January-March) for the following fall semester. It is crucial to contact schools directly, as some may have rolling admission if spaces remain. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. While these schools are not typically as intensely competitive as those in major metropolitan areas, popular grades (like kindergarten and 6th grade) at **St. Mary School** or **Paintsville Christian School** can fill up due to limited seats and preference given to siblings of current students and parishioners (for St. Mary). Early application is strongly recommended to secure a spot.
For a family considering both options, what are the notable differences between Paintsville public schools (Johnson County Schools) and the local private schools?
The decision often centers on class size, curriculum, and environment. **Johnson County Public Schools** offer a wide range of resources, including advanced placement courses, extensive extracurricular activities, and tuition-free education. In contrast, **private schools in Paintsville** provide significantly smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), allowing for highly individualized attention. The curriculum is explicitly faith-based, integrating religious instruction throughout the day, which is a primary differentiator. Disciplinary environments in private schools often emphasize structured, traditional values. While public schools have mandated state testing and curricula, private schools have more flexibility, which can allow for accelerated pacing or different pedagogical approaches. Transportation is another key factor; public schools provide busing, while private school families typically must arrange their own transportation.
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