The Best Private Schools in Gilliam, Louisiana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Gilliam. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Southfield School
Independent School
Southfield School is a prestigious independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Located in Shreveport about 25-30 minutes from Gilliam, the school provides a challenging academic environment with specialized instruction in core subjects, foreign languages, and enrichment programs. The campus features state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Southfield emphasizes individualized learning with small student-teacher ratios and offers comprehensive programs in STEM, visual and performing arts, and character education. The school has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and preparing students for success in top high school programs.
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Loyola College Prep
Independent Catholic School
Loyola College Prep is a highly-regarded independent Catholic school serving students in grades 7-12. Located approximately 30 minutes from Gilliam in Shreveport, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with 22 Advanced Placement courses. The campus features modern academic facilities, science labs, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Loyola emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and community service. The school has a strong track record of college admissions and offers comprehensive extracurricular programs including competitive athletics, fine arts, and numerous student organizations.
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Evangel Christian Academy
Private Christian School
Evangel Christian Academy is a comprehensive private Christian school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Located approximately 25 minutes from Gilliam in Shreveport, the school offers a Christ-centered education with strong academic programs, including college preparatory courses and dual enrollment opportunities. The extensive campus includes modern academic buildings, athletic facilities, performing arts center, and technology labs. Evangel provides a well-rounded education with emphasis on spiritual development, academic achievement, and extracurricular participation through competitive athletics, fine arts programs, and student ministries. The school maintains high academic standards while fostering character development and community service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Gilliam, Louisiana
What are the realistic private school options for a family living in Gilliam, Louisiana, given that the top schools are located in Shreveport?
While Gilliam itself is a very small village, families seeking private education typically look to nearby Shreveport, approximately a 30-45 minute commute. The leading options include Loyola College Prep (a Catholic, co-ed college preparatory school), Southfield School (known for its strong elementary and middle school program with an independent curriculum), and Evangel Christian Academy (a private Christian school offering a faith-based education from preschool through high school). Transportation and the daily commute are significant factors for Gilliam residents, and some families may explore carpool arrangements with others in the area.
How does Louisiana's School Choice program, like the Louisiana Tuition Donation Credit Program, affect private school tuition for Gilliam families?
Louisiana offers the Tuition Donation Credit Program (TDCP), which can provide financial assistance for families choosing private schools. For Gilliam residents considering schools in Shreveport, this program allows donors to receive state tax credits for contributions to School Tuition Organizations (STOs), which then grant need-based scholarships to eligible students. The participating STOs and available funds vary annually, so it's crucial to check with your target school (Loyola, Southfield, or Evangel) about their specific STO partnerships and application processes. This can make private school in the Shreveport area more accessible for qualifying families from Gilliam.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by the private schools accessible from Gilliam, LA, that might not be available in local public schools?
The private schools in the Shreveport area provide specialized programs that can justify the commute from Gilliam. Loyola College Prep offers a renowned Classical Studies program and extensive Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum. Southfield School emphasizes experiential learning with dedicated science labs and art studios starting in lower grades, along with a strong focus on writing. Evangel Christian Academy provides a comprehensive Bible-integrated curriculum and competitive athletic programs within the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. These schools often have smaller class sizes and more specialized arts, robotics, or foreign language offerings than the rural public school districts surrounding Gilliam.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Loyola, Southfield, and Evangel for a family relocating to or starting in Gilliam?
Enrollment timelines for these competitive Shreveport schools are critical to understand. Most begin their application processes in the fall (October-November) for the following academic year, with deadlines often in January or February. The process typically involves an application, student records review, standardized testing, family interviews, and for some, a shadow day. As a Gilliam resident, it's important to initiate contact early, as transportation and geographical distance can be discussion points. Waiting lists are common, especially for entry-grade levels. We recommend contacting admissions offices at least a full year in advance of your desired start date to understand specific requirements and secure testing/interview slots.
For a family in rural Gilliam, what are the key considerations when comparing the local Caddo Parish public school options to commuting to a private school in Shreveport?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. The public school for Gilliam residents is within the Caddo Parish Public School system, likely involving a bus ride to a consolidated school in a neighboring community. The primary advantages are no tuition and no lengthy commute for the student. Choosing a private school in Shreveport involves a significant daily time investment (1+ hours roundtrip), associated fuel costs, and annual tuition ranging from approximately $8,000 to $15,000+. In return, families often seek smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, specific religious education, enhanced facilities, and a perceived more consistent academic environment. The community aspect also differs—being part of a Shreveport school community versus a more dispersed rural one.
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