The Best Private Schools in Saint Paul, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Saint Paul. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Paul Academy and Summit School
Independent
St. Paul Academy and Summit School is a prestigious coeducational independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and exceptional college preparation, SPA emphasizes critical thinking, writing across disciplines, and hands-on learning. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, SPA maintains a strong reputation for academic excellence and student development, consistently ranking among Minnesota's top private schools.
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The Blake School
Independent
The Blake School, while physically located in Minneapolis, serves families throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area including Saint Paul. As one of Minnesota's most respected independent schools, Blake offers a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school. The school is particularly noted for its International Baccalaureate program, extensive arts curriculum, and competitive athletic teams. With multiple campuses and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Blake provides outstanding facilities including technology-rich classrooms, science centers, and performing arts spaces that serve students from both Minneapolis and Saint Paul communities.
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Breck School
Episcopal
Breck School is an Episcopal college-preparatory school that draws students from across the Twin Cities, including Saint Paul families seeking exceptional private education. Serving students from preschool through grade 12, Breck combines academic rigor with character development within an inclusive community. The school features outstanding STEM facilities, comprehensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. With a beautiful 50-acre campus and a long tradition of educational excellence, Breck offers small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong track record of college placements at top universities nationwide, making it a popular choice for Saint Paul residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Saint Paul, Minnesota
What are the main types of private schools available in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and how do they differ?
Saint Paul offers a diverse range of private school options. You'll find prestigious independent college-preparatory schools like St. Paul Academy and Summit School (SPA), which is known for its rigorous academics and urban campus. There are also prominent independent schools with campuses in the broader Twin Cities area that serve Saint Paul families, such as The Blake School (with a nearby Minneapolis campus) and Breck School in Golden Valley. Additionally, Saint Paul has a strong network of Catholic parochial and diocesan schools (e.g., Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Thomas Academy), Lutheran schools (e.g., Concordia Academy), and other faith-based institutions. The differences lie in educational philosophy, religious affiliation, campus setting, and specific programmatic strengths, from STEM to the arts.
How does tuition for Saint Paul, MN private schools compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for day schools in Saint Paul varies significantly. Top-tier independent schools like SPA, Blake, and Breck have tuition ranging from approximately $35,000 to over $40,000 per year for upper grades. Faith-based schools often have lower tuition, frequently in the $10,000-$20,000 range. A critical factor for Minnesota families is that the state does not offer tax-credit scholarship or voucher programs. However, most private schools, especially the independents, have substantial need-based financial aid programs funded by their endowments. It is essential to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are allocated early. Some schools also offer merit scholarships, though need-based aid is more common.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Saint Paul area that leverage local resources?
Saint Paul private schools often integrate the city's rich cultural and scientific resources into their curricula. For example, St. Paul Academy and Summit School utilizes its location for urban studies and partnerships with institutions like the Minnesota History Center and Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Many schools have robust environmental science programs that use the Mississippi River corridor, Crosby Farm Park, or the University of Minnesota's Saint Paul campus for fieldwork. Furthermore, proximity to major corporations like 3M and Ecolab, as well as medical centers, facilitates unique STEM internships and research opportunities for high school students that are distinctive to the Twin Cities metro area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Saint Paul, MN?
The process for most top Saint Paul private schools is highly structured and begins over a year in advance. For fall admission, open houses and tours typically run from September to November. Application deadlines are often in early to mid-January (e.g., January 15th). This usually includes submitting standardized test scores (like the ISEE or SSAT), teacher recommendations, transcripts, and a student/parent interview. Admissions decisions are commonly released in mid-March, with a family reply deadline in early April. Due to the competitive nature of schools like SPA, Blake, and Breck, starting the process early in the fall of the year prior to desired entry is crucial. Many schools also encourage applying for financial aid by a February deadline.
For families considering both options, what are key differences between Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) and private schools in the city?
The key differences involve choice, resources, and educational approach. Saint Paul Public Schools offer specialized magnet and language immersion programs (e.g., Spanish, Hmong) by lottery, providing public school options with unique focuses. However, private schools offer guaranteed placement in a specific educational model (e.g., progressive, classical, faith-based) without a lottery. Private schools generally have smaller class sizes and different funding structures, allowing for distinct programming and facilities. A significant practical difference is transportation; SPPS provides busing, while private school families often must arrange carpools or use limited school shuttle services. Academically, private schools often have more uniform college preparatory tracks, while SPPS offers a wider range of academic paths, including extensive career and technical education (CTE) programs.
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