The Best Private Schools in Garrison, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Garrison. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Pierz Healy High School
Diocese of St. Cloud
Pierz Healy High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Garrison and central Minnesota region. Located approximately 30 minutes from Garrison, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with strong emphasis on faith formation and character development. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology integration, competitive athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and strong parent satisfaction ratings.
Programs:
St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School
Diocese of St. Cloud
Located in nearby Brainerd (approximately 20 minutes from Garrison), St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School provides comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade. The school is known for its strong academic foundation, faith-based environment, and family-oriented community. Facilities include modern classrooms, technology labs, gymnasium, and dedicated art and music spaces. The school emphasizes individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios and offers robust extracurricular programs including athletics, choir, and academic competitions.
Programs:
Brainerd Baptist School
Independent Christian School
Brainerd Baptist School has been serving families in the Brainerd Lakes area, including Garrison, for five decades. The school provides a Christ-centered education with strong academic standards and character development. Located approximately 20 minutes from Garrison, the school offers comprehensive programs including music, art, physical education, and technology integration. The close-knit community and dedicated teachers create a nurturing environment where students receive individualized attention. The school maintains strong parent involvement and satisfaction with its balanced approach to academics and spiritual growth.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Garrison, Minnesota
What are the private school options for families living in Garrison, Minnesota, and are there any located directly in town?
There are no private schools physically located within the city limits of Garrison, MN. However, families in Garrison typically look to nearby communities for private education. The primary options include Pierz Healy High School (in Pierz, about 30 minutes south), St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School (in Brainerd, about 20 minutes west), and Brainerd Baptist School (also in Brainerd). These schools serve the greater lakes area, including Garrison, and require commuting. Many families in Garrison form carpools to manage the transportation to these schools in neighboring towns.
How does tuition at private schools near Garrison, MN, compare to state averages, and are there any Minnesota-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for private schools in the Garrison area, such as St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School, is generally below the metropolitan Twin Cities average but aligns with greater Minnesota rates, often ranging from $4,000 to $7,000 annually for elementary grades. A key Minnesota-specific financial benefit is the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction, which allows families to subtract a portion of private school tuition and other educational expenses from their state taxable income. Additionally, many local schools offer parish subsidies for members, sibling discounts, and need-based financial aid. It's important to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages and application processes.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Garrison offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in the Brainerd Lakes area, serving Garrison families, often incorporate the region's natural and cultural resources into their programs. For example, environmental science and outdoor education are emphasized, with potential for lake ecology studies and outdoor retreats. St. Francis of the Lakes may integrate faith-based stewardship of creation. Furthermore, given the area's strong community ties, schools often have robust service-learning programs partnering with local organizations. While specialized STEM or arts magnet programs are more limited than in larger cities, these schools provide a strong core curriculum with a close-knit, values-based community atmosphere unique to central Minnesota.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Garrison, MN, and when should I apply?
For schools like Pierz Healy High School and St. Francis of the Lakes, the enrollment process typically begins in the winter (January-February) for the following academic year, with priority deadlines often in March. However, these schools in greater Minnesota often have rolling admissions and will accept applications throughout the spring and summer as space allows, given their smaller size. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, a pastor or teacher recommendation (for faith-based schools), and a family interview. For Garrison families, it's crucial to apply early and also discuss transportation logistics during the admissions process, as securing a carpool spot can be an informal but important part of planning.
For a Garrison resident, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school (Garrison Public School) to private options in neighboring towns?
The primary consideration is the community school experience versus a specialized mission. Garrison Public School (K-12) offers the convenience of a short commute, deep integration with the local community, and no tuition. Private options require a daily commute to Brainerd or Pierz but provide specific religious education (Catholic or Baptist) or a different academic environment. Academically, Garrison Public is a small school with limited advanced placement offerings, while private schools may have different curricular strengths or smaller class sizes. Extracurricular opportunities also differ; Garrison Public activities are central to town life, while private school sports and clubs may involve competing against different leagues. The decision often hinges on a family's values, desired educational philosophy, and willingness to manage transportation.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities