The Best Private Schools in Collegeville, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Collegeville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. John's Preparatory School
Order of Saint Benedict
St. John's Preparatory School is a private, Catholic, college-preparatory school located on the grounds of Saint John's University in Collegeville. Founded in 1857, it has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, with a rigorous curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, STEM initiatives, and a strong emphasis on the liberal arts. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a close-knit community focused on values-based education. Extracurricular offerings include competitive athletics, music, theater, and various clubs, all supported by modern facilities and a beautiful campus setting. Parent and student reviews frequently highlight the school's supportive environment and high college acceptance rates.
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All Saints Academy
Catholic Diocese of St. Cloud
All Saints Academy is a private Catholic school serving grades PreK-12, formed in 2009 from the merger of several parish schools in the St. Cloud area. It is known for its strong academic programs, including STEM and fine arts, integrated with faith-based learning and character development. The school boasts modern facilities, such as science labs, art studios, and athletic fields, and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and service clubs. With a focus on community and parent involvement, All Saints Academy has garnered positive reviews for its dedicated teachers, safe environment, and comprehensive educational approach, making it a popular choice for families in Collegeville and surrounding regions.
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St. Cloud Christian School
Independent Christian School
St. Cloud Christian School is a private Christian institution offering education from preschool through high school, founded in 1978. It provides a Christ-centered curriculum that integrates biblical principles with college preparatory academics, including Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment options. The school emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and a supportive community, with facilities that include technology-enhanced classrooms, a gymnasium, and art spaces. Extracurricular programs feature athletics, music, drama, and various clubs, fostering well-rounded development. Parent satisfaction is high, with reviews often praising the school's strong moral foundation, committed staff, and family-oriented atmosphere, serving families in Collegeville and the broader St. Cloud area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Collegeville, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options serving families in Collegeville, Minnesota, and what are their educational philosophies?
Collegeville, MN, is uniquely served by a few prominent private schools, most notably St. John's Preparatory School, which is a co-educational, college-preparatory school rooted in the Benedictine tradition and located on the campus of Saint John's University. For younger grades, many Collegeville families also consider All Saints Academy (with campuses in nearby St. Cloud and Sartell), which is a Catholic school for PreK-8, and St. Cloud Christian School, an interdenominational Christian school for PreK-12 located in Waite Park. The proximity to St. John's University also influences the academic environment, offering unique access to university facilities and programs for preparatory students.
How does tuition at Collegeville-area private schools compare, and what financial aid options are available for Minnesota residents?
Tuition varies among the primary options. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. John's Prep's tuition is approximately $21,000 for high school, while All Saints Academy and St. Cloud Christian School have lower tuition ranges, typically between $5,000 and $9,000 for elementary grades. As Minnesota residents, families can benefit from state-specific aid programs. The most significant is the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction, which allows for tax deductions for educational expenses. Additionally, all these schools offer need-based financial aid and scholarships, and some participate in grant programs like the Minnesota Educational Tax Credit for qualifying donations.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are available at private schools in the Collegeville area due to their specific affiliations or location?
The private schools in the Collegeville area offer distinctive programs shaped by their identities. St. John's Preparatory School provides unparalleled access to the resources of Saint John's University, including college-level courses, the university's libraries, athletic facilities, and fine arts performances. Its Benedictine setting emphasizes global studies and ethical leadership. All Saints Academy integrates Catholic faith across a STEM-focused curriculum. St. Cloud Christian School emphasizes a biblical worldview and offers strong arts and athletic programs. All schools leverage the natural environment of central Minnesota for outdoor education and environmental science.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. John's Prep in Collegeville, MN, and when should we apply?
The enrollment process for schools like St. John's Preparatory School typically begins in the fall for the following academic year. Key dates include open houses from September to November, with application deadlines often in early to mid-January. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a student/parent interview. For the best chance of admission and consideration for financial aid, families are advised to start the process a full year in advance. Rolling admissions may be available for later grades if space permits, but popular grades fill quickly.
For families living in Collegeville, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Sartell-St. Stephen) with the available private school options?
Families in Collegeville are part of the highly-regarded Sartell-St. Stephen School District (ISD 748). Key comparisons include: **Curriculum & Size:** Public schools offer a broad curriculum with extensive AP courses and large-scale extracurriculars. Private schools like St. John's Prep offer smaller class sizes, a specific values-based education, and a tight-knit community. **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded, while private schools require tuition. **Logistics:** The public district provides busing within Collegeville. Private schools may require longer commutes to St. Joseph, St. Cloud, or Waite Park, with carpooling being common. The decision often hinges on whether a family prioritizes a faith-based/college-prep environment or the comprehensive, no-tuition model of the local public system.
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