The Best Private Schools in Augusta, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Augusta. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Hackett Catholic Prep
Diocese of Kalamazoo
Hackett Catholic Prep is a highly-regarded college preparatory high school serving students from Augusta and throughout the Kalamazoo area. Founded in 1968, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 14 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and competitive athletic programs. The campus features modern science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Hackett emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, preparing students for top universities nationwide.
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St. Philip Catholic Central Elementary & Middle School
Diocese of Kalamazoo
St. Philip Catholic Central serves students from preschool through 8th grade, drawing families from Augusta and surrounding communities. The school offers a classical Catholic education rooted in tradition while incorporating modern STEM and technology programs. Facilities include dedicated science labs, art studios, music rooms, and gymnasium. The school maintains strong parent satisfaction through its family-oriented community, individualized attention, and comprehensive extracurricular offerings including competitive sports and fine arts programs.
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Lakeview School District - STEM Academy (Charter/Private Partnership)
Lakeview School District
While technically part of the public school system, Lakeview's STEM Academy operates as a school-of-choice program that serves as a private school alternative for Augusta area families seeking specialized education. The academy focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on, project-based learning. Students have access to state-of-the-art technology labs, robotics equipment, and partnership opportunities with local industries and colleges. The program features small learning communities, individualized learning plans, and early college credit opportunities, making it a popular choice for academically-focused families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Augusta, Michigan
What are the primary private and faith-based school options available for families in the Augusta, Michigan area?
The Augusta area offers a few key private institutions, primarily with a Catholic affiliation. The most prominent is Hackett Catholic Prep in Kalamazoo, which serves as the regional Catholic high school for students from Augusta and surrounding communities. For younger grades, St. Philip Catholic Central Elementary & Middle School, also in Battle Creek, provides a K-8 education. It's important to note that Augusta itself is a small village, so most private school options require a commute to nearby cities. Additionally, the Lakeview School District's STEM Academy in Battle Creek represents a unique public charter/private partnership model with a specialized focus, which some families consider as an alternative to traditional private schools.
How does tuition at private schools near Augusta, MI, compare, and are there Michigan-specific financial aid options?
Tuition varies by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Hackett Catholic Prep's tuition is approximately $10,000-$12,000, while St. Philip's elementary grades are roughly $5,000-$7,000. A critical financial consideration for Michigan families is the state's "Tuition Incentive Program" (TIP), which can cover tuition costs at participating private schools for eligible students from lower-income families. Additionally, many diocesan schools offer parish subsidies for active member families, and all schools have need-based financial aid and payment plans. It's advisable to schedule a financial aid consultation with each school's admissions office.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Augusta region specialize in?
Schools in this region have developed distinct specialties. Hackett Catholic Prep offers a robust college-preparatory curriculum with notable programs in theology, fine arts, and competitive athletics. St. Philip Catholic Central integrates faith-based learning with core academics and character education. A standout program in the area is the Lakeview STEM Academy, which, while a public charter, offers a private-school-like environment focused intensively on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math through project-based learning—a unique option for families in Calhoun County seeking a specialized, tuition-free environment. Many private school students also benefit from smaller class sizes and individualized attention.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Augusta, MI families?
The enrollment process typically begins in the winter prior to the desired school year. For schools like Hackett and St. Philip, open houses are held between October and February. Application deadlines for priority consideration are often in early spring (March/April), though rolling admissions may continue if spaces remain. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. For kindergarten, many schools host "Kindergarten Roundup" events. Due to the limited number of seats, especially in popular grades, starting the process early is highly recommended for Augusta-area parents.
How do families in Augusta, MI, typically navigate the choice between local public schools, faith-based private schools, and specialized academies?
This is a key consideration for Augusta families. The Gull Lake Community Schools is the local public district, known for its strong academic ratings. The choice often hinges on priorities: faith formation and a close-knit community (Catholic schools), specialized STEM education (STEM Academy), or the no-tuition, comprehensive programs of the local public schools. Many families value the moral and religious education offered by Hackett and St. Philip, while others seek the focused curriculum of the STEM Academy. Transportation can be a factor, as private schools do not provide district busing, so carpooling is common. Visiting each option is crucial to understanding the culture and fit for your child.
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