The Best Private Schools in Atlanta, Louisiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Atlanta. 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
Catholic Diocese of Alexandria
St. Mary's Catholic School is a highly-regarded private Catholic school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located approximately 30 miles from Atlanta in Natchitoches, this established institution offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on faith-based education. The school features modern facilities, competitive athletic programs, and robust STEM offerings. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, St. Mary's maintains high academic standards and has a proven track record of preparing students for college success. The school serves families throughout central Louisiana, including the Atlanta area.
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St. Frederick Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Alexandria
St. Frederick Catholic High School is a premier private Catholic institution serving students in grades 6-12. Located in Monroe, approximately 60 miles from Atlanta, this respected school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive athletic programs, and outstanding fine arts offerings. With a strong focus on character development and academic excellence, St. Frederick has consistently produced graduates who excel in higher education. The school serves a regional population and provides transportation options for students from surrounding communities.
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River Oaks School
Independent School
River Oaks School is an esteemed independent college preparatory school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located in Monroe, approximately 60 miles from Atlanta, this institution offers a challenging academic program with extensive Advanced Placement opportunities. The school features modern campus facilities, competitive athletic teams, and comprehensive arts programs. River Oaks emphasizes individualized attention with small class sizes and maintains high college acceptance rates. The school serves families throughout northeastern Louisiana and has established itself as one of the region's top private educational institutions with a strong tradition of academic excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Atlanta, Louisiana
What are the primary private school options available for families in Atlanta, Louisiana, and what grade levels do they serve?
Atlanta, Louisiana, offers a small but focused selection of private schools. The top institutions include St. Mary's Catholic School, which typically serves elementary and middle grades; St. Frederick Catholic High School for grades 9-12; and River Oaks School, which is a private, non-denominational school offering a Pre-K through 12th grade education. Given Atlanta's size, these schools serve not only the local community but also families from surrounding parishes like Winn Parish. It's important to note that private school options in a town of Atlanta's scale are limited, so many families also consider schools in nearby larger communities like Alexandria for additional choices.
How does tuition at Atlanta, LA private schools compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at private schools in Atlanta, Louisiana, is generally below the state average for major metropolitan areas but is a significant consideration for families in this region. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition can range from approximately $5,000 to $8,000 annually, depending on the school and grade level. Louisiana's unique School Choice Program, including the Louisiana Scholarship Program (vouchers), may provide financial assistance to eligible families, particularly for the Catholic schools. Additionally, St. Mary's, St. Frederick, and River Oaks School often have parish subsidies (for affiliated church members), need-based scholarships, and sibling discounts. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and application deadlines.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Atlanta, LA, that leverage the local community?
Private schools in Atlanta, LA, often integrate the region's culture and environment into their programs. Academically, schools like River Oaks may emphasize college preparatory curricula with small class sizes, while St. Frederick Catholic High School offers a faith-based education with theology requirements. Extracurricularly, given the rural North Louisiana setting, programs may include FFA (Future Farmers of America), wildlife conservation clubs, and strong athletic programs in sports like baseball, basketball, and track. Some schools also participate in regional academic competitions through the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) and literary rallies. The close-knit community allows for personalized attention and partnerships with local businesses for internships or service projects.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Atlanta, Louisiana?
The enrollment process for Atlanta's private schools usually begins in the winter or early spring for the following academic year. Key steps include: 1) **Open Houses/ Tours (Jan-Feb):** Schools like St. Mary's and River Oaks host events for prospective families. 2) **Application Deadline (March-April):** Submission of applications, often with a fee, student records, and teacher recommendations. 3) **Assessment/Interview (Spring):** Entrance exams or interviews for incoming students, especially for middle and high school placements at St. Frederick. 4) **Acceptance & Registration (April-May):** Notification of acceptance, followed by registration and tuition deposit to secure a spot. Due to limited seats, especially in the smaller elementary grades, early application is strongly advised. Some schools may have rolling admission if spaces remain.
For families in Atlanta, what are the key factors when deciding between the local public school (likely Atlanta High School) and a private school option?
The decision in Atlanta often hinges on several local factors. **Public School (e.g., Atlanta High School):** Offers a tuition-free education with potentially broader extracurricular offerings due to larger class sizes and state funding. It provides the standard Louisiana curriculum. **Private Schools (St. Mary's, St. Frederick, River Oaks):** Offer smaller class sizes (often 15:1 or lower), a specific religious or values-based education (where applicable), and a structured environment that some families prefer. They may have more flexibility in curriculum pacing and often boast high college acceptance rates. For many Atlanta families, the choice also involves logistics—private schools may offer bus transportation from surrounding areas, but public school is the default neighborhood option. The strong community and parental involvement in Atlanta's private schools are frequently cited as deciding advantages.
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