The Best Private Schools in Glenwood, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Glenwood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary's School
St. Mary's Catholic Church
St. Mary's School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving the Glenwood area and greater Alexandria region. Established in 1948, the school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning combined with rigorous academics. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated faculty with an average of 15+ years teaching experience, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent academic preparation for high school.
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Oak Grove Lutheran School
Oak Grove Lutheran Schools
Oak Grove Lutheran School is a premier private Christian school serving students from across the region, including the Glenwood area. Founded in 1917, this accredited institution offers comprehensive education from grades 6-12 with a strong college preparatory focus. The school boasts exceptional academic results with 100% college acceptance rates, extensive Advanced Placement course offerings, state-of-the-art STEM labs, and championship-caliber athletic programs. The 40-acre campus features modern facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's academic rigor and character development programs.
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Shanley High School
Fargo Catholic Schools Network
Shanley High School is a distinguished Catholic college preparatory school serving students from throughout the region, including families from Glenwood. Established in 1968, Shanley offers a comprehensive educational experience with strong academic credentials, including numerous Advanced Placement courses and a 100% college acceptance rate. The school features modern facilities including science and technology labs, fine arts studios, and extensive athletic facilities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Shanley provides personalized attention and strong community values. The school's extensive extracurricular offerings include championship athletics, performing arts programs, and community service opportunities that develop well-rounded students prepared for college success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Glenwood, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options available for families in Glenwood, Minnesota, and what grade levels do they serve?
In Glenwood and the surrounding Pope County area, the most prominent private options are faith-based institutions. St. Mary's School in Glenwood itself is a Catholic school serving students in Pre-K through 6th grade. For middle and high school, families often look to nearby Fargo, ND, such as Oak Grove Lutheran School (grades 6-12) and Shanley High School (grades 9-12), which are within a commutable distance for many Glenwood residents. The private school landscape in this region of Minnesota is characterized by these well-established religious-affiliated schools, with limited secular private options locally.
How does tuition at private schools like St. Mary's in Glenwood compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are available for Minnesota residents?
Tuition at St. Mary's School in Glenwood is typically below the state average for private elementary schools, reflecting the lower cost of living in the area. For the 2023-2024 school year, tuition was approximately $3,500-$4,500 for parishioners. As Minnesota residents, families may be eligible for state-specific aid programs, including the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction, which can provide significant tax relief for tuition and educational expenses. Additionally, many diocesan schools, including St. Mary's, offer parish subsidies and need-based financial aid. For schools like Oak Grove and Shanley, more substantial tuition assistance and merit scholarships are available.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Glenwood, MN, students offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in this region often emphasize faith-based education and character development integrated into their curriculum. St. Mary's offers a strong foundational program with small class sizes. The nearby Fargo options provide distinct advantages: Oak Grove Lutheran School has a renowned international student program and robust arts offerings, while Shanley High School is known for its competitive academic standing and extensive athletic programs in the Fargo-Moorhead area. These schools can offer specialized courses, such as theology or advanced language programs, that may not be as available in the smaller Glenwood public school district.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary's in Glenwood, and when should parents apply?
For St. Mary's School in Glenwood, the enrollment process for the following academic year typically begins in January or February, with priority given to current students and siblings. Open houses are often held in the winter. Given the small size of the school, it is advisable for new families to apply by early spring to secure a spot. For the Fargo-based schools (Oak Grove, Shanley), timelines are more structured, with application deadlines often in February for the following fall, and entrance exams or placement tests scheduled shortly after. Families in Glenwood should plan for potential commuting logistics and apply a full year in advance for the secondary schools.
For a family in Glenwood, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school option, especially regarding community and commute?
The decision often hinges on values, cost, and logistics. Glenwood Public Schools offer the convenience of a local community-based education with no tuition. Choosing a local private option like St. Mary's keeps children within the Glenwood community but involves tuition. Opting for a Fargo private school like Oak Grove or Shanley means access to broader academic and extracurricular resources but introduces a significant daily commute of 45-60 minutes each way. Parents must weigh the importance of a faith-based curriculum, smaller class sizes, and specific programs against the time and financial investment. Many families find a hybrid approach, using St. Mary's for elementary grades and then evaluating options for secondary education.
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