The Best Private Schools in Oak Park, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Oak Park. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Benilde-St. Margaret's School
Independent Catholic School
Benilde-St. Margaret's is a coeducational Catholic school known for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong community values. It offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with advanced placement courses, robust STEM initiatives, and extensive extracurricular activities including athletics, arts, and service learning. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a focus on character development, consistently achieving high graduation and college acceptance rates. Parent and student satisfaction is high due to its dedicated faculty and inclusive environment.
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The International School of Minnesota
SABIS® Educational Systems
The International School of Minnesota provides a globally-focused education through its International Baccalaureate and SABIS curricula, emphasizing academic excellence, multilingualism, and cultural awareness. Students benefit from a structured learning environment with advanced STEM programs, arts, and athletics. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, experienced teachers, and a track record of high student achievement and college placements. It is highly regarded for its diverse community and strong parent involvement, making it a top choice for families in the metro area.
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Mounds Park Academy
Independent School
Mounds Park Academy is an independent school offering a balanced liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. Its curriculum includes advanced STEM courses, vibrant arts programs, and personalized learning plans. The school features excellent facilities, low student-teacher ratios, and a supportive community that fosters academic and personal growth. With high parent satisfaction and a reputation for preparing students for top colleges, it serves as a premier option in the Twin Cities region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Oak Park, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Oak Park, Minnesota, and how accessible are they?
While Oak Park itself is a residential suburb, it is strategically located near several top-tier private schools in the broader Twin Cities area. The most prominent options include Benilde-St. Margaret's School in St. Louis Park (a Catholic, co-ed college-prep school), The International School of Minnesota in Eden Prairie (offering an International Baccalaureate curriculum and global focus), and Mounds Park Academy in St. Paul (a secular, independent PreK-12 school). These schools are all within a 15-25 minute commute from Oak Park, with many families utilizing car pools or school-provided transportation services. There are no major private school campuses within Oak Park's immediate borders, so accessibility is defined by proximity to major highways like I-394 and MN-100.
How does tuition for private schools near Oak Park, MN, compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Oak Park varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $20,000 to $30,000+ for upper school grades, with lower rates for younger grades. Minnesota offers unique financial support through the "Minnesota K-12 Education Tax Credit" and "Subtraction," which can provide state tax relief for qualifying educational expenses, including private school tuition. Additionally, all major schools like Benilde-St. Margaret's, ISM, and Mounds Park Academy have robust need-based financial aid programs. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often align with admission applications in January or February. Some schools also offer merit scholarships.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs distinguish the private schools accessible from Oak Park, Minnesota?
The schools near Oak Park offer distinct specializations. The International School of Minnesota is renowned for its full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum from PreK to Grade 12, providing a globally recognized diploma. Benilde-St. Margaret's offers strong STEM initiatives alongside exceptional arts and athletics, with a values-based education. Mounds Park Academy emphasizes experiential learning, civic engagement, and a highly personalized college counseling program. For Oak Park families, these specialized programs mean choosing between a global IB pathway, a faith-integrated college prep environment, or a progressive independent school model, all within a reasonable commute.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Oak Park, MN, area?
The admission process for sought-after private schools near Oak Park is highly structured and begins early. The main entry points are Pre-K/Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades. The timeline typically starts in the fall (September-October) with open houses and tours. Application deadlines are usually in January, with assessments, student visits, and interviews occurring in January and February. Admission decisions and financial aid awards are communicated in March for a start the following fall. For Oak Park residents, it's essential to plan for this timeline a full year in advance and to apply to multiple schools due to competitive spaces, especially at the entry grades.
How do the educational environments and outcomes of private schools near Oak Park compare to the highly-rated Robbinsdale Area Schools (District 281) public system?
This is a key consideration for Oak Park families. Robbinsdale Area Schools, which serve Oak Park, are well-regarded public schools. The private school alternative offers smaller class sizes (often 15-18 students vs. 25+), specialized curricula (like IB or faith-based learning), and often more resources for individualized attention. Outcomes in terms of college matriculation are consistently high at the private schools, with lists featuring top-tier national universities. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy, desired community size, and specific program offerings. The private schools provide a distinct, mission-driven environment, while the public system offers a strong, tuition-free education with diverse programs. Many Oak Park families value the private option for its consistent, singular educational approach across all grades.
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