The Best Private Schools in La Salle, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in La Salle. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary Catholic Central High School
Diocese of Toledo
St. Mary Catholic Central is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory high school serving the Monroe County area, including La Salle. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 16 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. With small class sizes averaging 18 students, SMCC provides personalized attention and maintains a 98% college acceptance rate. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes character development and community service alongside academic excellence.
Programs:
Bedford Academy
Bedford Public Schools (Charter)
Bedford Academy is a highly-rated public school academy serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade, drawing from La Salle and surrounding communities. The school focuses on accelerated learning with advanced curriculum in core subjects, comprehensive technology integration, and enrichment programs in arts and music. With small class sizes and individualized learning plans, Bedford Academy maintains high academic standards and strong parent satisfaction. The school features modern classrooms, computer labs, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and physical education.
Programs:
Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools
Diocese of Toledo
Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools provide comprehensive Catholic education from preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout Monroe County including La Salle. The system includes multiple campuses with strong academic foundations, faith-based education, and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The curriculum emphasizes core academic excellence while integrating technology, fine arts, and character development. With dedicated faculty and modern facilities, MCES prepares students for success in high school and beyond while maintaining small class sizes and individualized attention. The schools offer extensive parent involvement opportunities and community-building activities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in La Salle, Michigan
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in La Salle, Michigan, and what grade levels do they serve?
La Salle, MI, is served by a few key private institutions, primarily Catholic schools in the greater Monroe area. The notable options include St. Mary Catholic Central High School (grades 9-12) in nearby Monroe, Bedford Academy (a K-8 charter school, which is public tuition-free, but often considered alongside private options for its specialized focus), and the Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools system (typically Pre-K through 8th grade). For La Salle residents, these are the closest and most common choices, with transportation considerations being an important factor. There are limited, if any, private schools physically located within the small census-designated place of La Salle itself, so families typically look to the surrounding Monroe County area.
How does tuition for private schools in the La Salle, Michigan, area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools' tuition is approximately $4,500-$5,500 per child, with discounts for parish members and multiple children. St. Mary Catholic Central High School tuition is roughly $9,000-$10,000. Michigan offers specific financial aid avenues that La Salle families can utilize. The most significant is the Michigan Tuition Grant for private K-12 schools, which is need-based. Additionally, many schools offer parish subsidies, merit scholarships, and internal financial aid. It's crucial to apply for aid directly through the school's financial aid office, as deadlines are often early in the calendar year for the following fall.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to La Salle, MI, students?
Schools serving La Salle offer distinct programs. St. Mary Catholic Central (SMCC) is known for its strong college-prep curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, a renowned Robotics program, and competitive athletics in the Detroit Catholic League. Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools provide a faith-based foundation with dedicated STEM initiatives and art programs. Bedford Academy, while a public charter school, emphasizes a "back to basics" core knowledge curriculum and foreign language instruction starting in kindergarten, which is a draw for families seeking a structured alternative. For La Salle families, these specialized offerings mean choosing between a faith-based continuum (elementary through high school) or a focused academic charter model.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like SMCC and Monroe Catholic Elementary for La Salle residents?
The enrollment process for these schools begins early. For Monroe Catholic Elementary Schools, open enrollment typically starts in January for the following fall, with priority given to existing families and parish members. St. Mary Catholic Central High School conducts its placement test and open house in the fall (often October/November) for 8th graders seeking admission for the next academic year. La Salle families should note that while residency in La Salle is not a barrier, early application is strongly recommended due to limited space, especially in popular grades. Contacting the admissions office a full year in advance is advisable to attend open houses, complete applications, and schedule shadow days.
For a family in La Salle, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Bedford Public Schools) with the available private options?
The key comparison for La Salle families is between Bedford Public Schools (the assigned district) and the private/charter options. Considerations include: **Curriculum & Environment:** Bedford Public offers a comprehensive K-12 pathway with diverse electives and sports. Private options offer a faith-based education (Catholic schools) or a specific pedagogical focus (Bedford Academy's core knowledge). **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded and tuition-free, while private schools require tuition, though financial aid is available. **Logistics:** Transportation to Bedford Public schools is provided for La Salle residents. For private schools, families are often responsible for transportation to Monroe, which is a crucial daily factor. **Class Size:** Private and charter schools often boast smaller average class sizes than the public middle and high schools. The decision often hinges on the value placed on religious education, specific academic approaches, and the family's willingness to manage transportation and cost.