The Best Private Schools in Cannon Falls, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cannon Falls. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Northfield School of the Liberal Arts
Independent
Located about 30 minutes from Cannon Falls, Northfield School of the Liberal Arts provides a classical education grounded in the Western tradition. The school emphasizes critical thinking through Socratic dialogue and a Great Books curriculum. With an exceptional student-teacher ratio and strong community values, students develop both academic excellence and character. The school consistently produces graduates who excel in college and beyond, with a focus on developing articulate, thoughtful individuals.
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Shattuck-St. Mary's School
Independent
Shattuck-St. Mary's is a premier co-educational Episcopal boarding and day school serving students in grades 6-12. Located approximately 45 minutes from Cannon Falls, it offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional arts and athletic programs. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and specialized training facilities for hockey and soccer. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personalized attention and comprehensive college counseling.
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Lourdes High School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona-Rochester
Lourdes High School, located approximately 45 minutes from Cannon Falls, offers a comprehensive Catholic college preparatory education within the Rochester Catholic Schools system. The school features modern facilities, advanced STEM programs, competitive athletics, and extensive fine arts offerings. With a strong emphasis on faith formation and academic excellence, Lourdes prepares students for college success while developing moral character and leadership skills. The school maintains small class sizes and personalized academic support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cannon Falls, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Cannon Falls, Minnesota?
While Cannon Falls itself is a smaller community, families have access to several highly-regarded private schools in the surrounding area. The most prominent options include Shattuck-St. Mary's School in Faribault (a prestigious boarding and day school known for its arts and hockey academies), Northfield School of the Liberal Arts in Northfield (a classical Christian school), and Lourdes High School in Rochester (a Catholic college-preparatory school). Many Cannon Falls families commute to these schools, and some may also consider private options in the Twin Cities metro area, depending on their willingness to travel.
How does the tuition for private schools near Cannon Falls, MN, compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Minnesota?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school. For the 2024-2025 academic year, day student tuition at Shattuck-St. Mary's is approximately $40,000+, while Northfield School of the Liberal Arts and Lourdes High School typically range from $10,000 to $15,000. A key financial consideration for Minnesota residents is the state's K-12 Education Tax Credit and Subtraction, which can provide tax relief for educational expenses, including private school tuition, fees, and supplies. Additionally, all major private schools offer need-based financial aid, and some participate in Minnesota's "Achieve Scholarship" tax-credit program for lower-income families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Cannon Falls?
The schools near Cannon Falls offer distinctive specializations. Shattuck-St. Mary's is nationally recognized for its Center for Academic Achievement and its specialized "Centers of Excellence" in areas like Figure Skating, Soccer, Hockey, and the Performing Arts. Northfield School of the Liberal Arts provides a rigorous classical curriculum rooted in the Socratic method and Christian values. Lourdes High School offers a strong college-prep curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement (AP) courses and notable arts and athletics programs. For Cannon Falls students, these programs provide opportunities that may not be available in the local public school district.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Cannon Falls, MN, region?
The process generally begins a full year in advance. For schools like Shattuck-St. Mary's, Lourdes, and Northfield School of the Liberal Arts, applications for the following fall semester are typically due between January and February. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student interview and entrance exam. It's crucial for Cannon Falls parents to plan for potential commute logistics and transportation early. Open houses and shadow days are usually held in the fall, and financial aid applications are concurrent with admissions applications.
How do private schools near Cannon Falls differ from the Cannon Falls Public School District, and what are key considerations for choosing between them?
The Cannon Falls Public School District offers a well-regarded, tuition-free K-12 education with strong community ties and extracurriculars. The primary differences with nearby private options involve educational philosophy, class size, and specialized programs. Private schools offer smaller class sizes, distinct religious or pedagogical approaches (e.g., classical, college-prep), and niche academies (like hockey or arts at Shattuck-St. Mary's). Key considerations for Cannon Falls families include: the significant financial investment, daily commute time to schools in Faribault, Northfield, or Rochester (20-45+ minutes), and alignment with a specific educational mission. The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks a specialized program not available locally.
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