The Best Private Schools in Clinton, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Clinton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary Catholic School
Diocese of Lansing Catholic Schools
St. Mary Catholic School is a highly-regarded Pre-K through 8th grade institution providing faith-based education in Clinton. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances strong academics with character development and spiritual formation. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, students receive personalized attention. The school features modern facilities including technology-integrated classrooms, a library, gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Extracurricular activities include sports teams, choir, and community service projects. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong sense of community.
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St. Joseph Academy
Diocese of Lansing Catholic Schools
Located just 15 minutes from Clinton in Adrian, St. Joseph Academy is a premier Catholic high school serving the broader Lenawee County area. The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment opportunities. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes holistic education with strong programs in fine arts, athletics, and community service. With a 100% college acceptance rate and dedicated faculty, St. Joseph Academy prepares students for academic success and leadership roles.
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St. Elizabeth Catholic School
Diocese of Lansing Catholic Schools
Serving families from Clinton and surrounding communities, St. Elizabeth Catholic School in nearby Tecumseh offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education. The school provides a strong academic foundation with integrated technology, Spanish language instruction starting in elementary grades, and a well-rounded curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, a STEM lab, library, gymnasium, and outdoor learning spaces. The school community is known for its family atmosphere and commitment to developing students' spiritual, academic, and social growth. Extracurricular offerings include sports, music programs, and academic competitions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Clinton, Michigan
What are the main private school options available in Clinton, Michigan, and what are their educational approaches?
Clinton, MI, is served primarily by faith-based private schools, with the top options being St. Mary Catholic School (Pre-K through 8th grade), St. Joseph Academy (a private, independent Catholic school for grades 9-12 located in nearby Adrian, often serving Clinton families), and St. Elizabeth Catholic School in nearby Tecumseh (Pre-K through 8th grade). These schools offer a values-based education rooted in the Catholic tradition, with a strong emphasis on core academics, character development, and community service. For families in Clinton seeking a non-religious private option, exploring schools in larger neighboring communities like Ann Arbor or Jackson may be necessary, as there are no secular private schools within Clinton itself.
What is the typical tuition range for private schools in the Clinton, Michigan area, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for the elementary/middle schools in the Clinton area, such as St. Mary Catholic School, typically ranges from approximately $4,000 to $6,500 per year per student. St. Joseph Academy's high school tuition is higher, generally between $10,000 and $12,000 annually. It's important to note that active parishioners of supporting Catholic churches often receive a significantly reduced parishioner rate. Financial aid is available through the schools themselves and the Diocese of Lansing. Additionally, Michigan has several state-funded programs that can help, including the Tuition Tax Credit for donations to scholarship-granting organizations and the possibility of using Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP) funds.
How do the academic and extracurricular programs at Clinton's private schools compare to the public Clinton Community Schools district?
Clinton Community Schools (CCS) offers a comprehensive K-12 public education with standard extracurriculars like sports, band, and clubs. The private schools in the area, like St. Mary's, provide smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students) and a more integrated curriculum that includes daily religion classes. Their programs are strong in core fundamentals but may have fewer elective options or specialized high school tracks compared to the public high school. A key differentiator is the environment: private schools offer a close-knit, consistent community from preschool through middle school, while CCS provides a broader, more diverse student body and typically more extensive facilities for arts and athletics at the secondary level.
What is the enrollment process and timeline for families interested in St. Mary Catholic School in Clinton?
Enrollment for St. Mary Catholic School in Clinton typically opens in January for the following academic year, with priority given to currently enrolled students and active parishioners of St. Mary's. The process involves submitting an application, providing birth and baptismal certificates (if applicable), recent report cards, and undergoing a family interview. A placement screening may be conducted for incoming students. It is highly recommended to contact the school office by early spring, as spaces, particularly in the younger grades, can fill quickly. The school also hosts open houses and shadow days for prospective students, usually scheduled in the winter and early spring.
For families in Clinton, what are the transportation options and community considerations for attending a private school?
Unlike public schools, private schools in Michigan are not required to provide district transportation. For Clinton families attending St. Mary's or other local parochial schools, transportation is primarily the responsibility of the parents. Many families form carpools within the Clinton community. Some districts may offer limited busing to private schools if they are on an existing public route, but this is not guaranteed; you must check with Clinton Community Schools transportation department. A major community consideration is the strong network among families at these schools, often centered around church activities. Being part of this community can provide significant social support but also requires active participation in school and parish events, fundraisers, and volunteer hours.
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