The Best Private Schools in Stillwater, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Stillwater. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Providence Academy
Providence Academy
Providence Academy is a premier PreK-12 independent Catholic school serving the broader Twin Cities metro area, including Stillwater families. The school offers a classical education model integrated with Catholic tradition, featuring a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. Campus facilities include modern classrooms, science and technology labs, fine arts studios, and extensive athletic facilities. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide. Robust extracurricular programs include championship athletics, performing arts, academic competitions, and leadership development opportunities. The school is known for its strong community and exceptional faculty.
Programs:
St. Croix Preparatory Academy
St. Croix Preparatory Academy
St. Croix Preparatory Academy is a highly-regarded K-12 IB World School known for its rigorous academic program and classical education approach. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. The comprehensive IB program prepares students for college success, while extensive extracurricular offerings include competitive athletics, robotics, theater, and community service programs. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to the school's strong communication and community atmosphere.
Programs:
Trinity School at River Ridge
Trinity School at River Ridge
Trinity School at River Ridge is a highly respected K-12 classical Christian school serving students from across the Twin Cities metro, including Stillwater. The school employs the Socratic method and emphasizes critical thinking through a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty create an environment focused on intellectual and character development. The school features modern academic facilities, technology resources, and collaborative learning spaces. Graduates consistently achieve exceptional college placement results. The school community is known for its strong parent involvement and commitment to developing well-rounded students through academics, arts, and character formation.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Stillwater, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options for Stillwater, MN residents, and are they located within the city?
While Stillwater itself is home to several excellent Catholic parochial schools (like St. Croix Catholic School), many families in the area also consider renowned independent and charter schools in nearby communities. The top-regarded options often include St. Croix Preparatory Academy in nearby Baytown Township (a public charter school with a classical curriculum), Providence Academy in Plymouth (a Catholic, classical liberal arts school), and Trinity School at River Ridge in Eagan (a Catholic, classical school). Stillwater's location in the St. Croix River Valley provides access to a metro-wide selection, though commuting is a factor for schools outside the immediate area.
How does Minnesota's unique tax credit and deduction system affect private school tuition in Stillwater?
Minnesota offers specific financial benefits that can help Stillwater families with private school costs. The state provides an Education Deduction for qualifying educational expenses, including tuition, and an Education Credit, which is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of your state tax liability. These can be applied to tuition at eligible private schools. Additionally, Minnesota has a K-12 Education Credit for lower-income families. It's crucial to consult with a tax professional and review the specific eligibility requirements, as these benefits can significantly offset the annual tuition, which for area private schools can range from approximately $5,000 to over $20,000.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are notable among private schools serving Stillwater students?
Private schools in the Stillwater area often distinguish themselves with specialized tracks. St. Croix Preparatory Academy emphasizes a classical, Core Knowledge curriculum and has strong Latin programs. Providence Academy offers a comprehensive classical liberal arts education with notable fine arts and competitive athletics. Trinity School at River Ridge is known for its integrated humanities program and Socratic teaching method. For Stillwater families interested in specific alignments, such as STEM, the arts, or classical pedagogy, these schools offer distinct approaches not always available in a single public school district, though the Stillwater Area Public Schools (SAPS) also have robust programs.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Stillwater area?
For the most sought-after private schools serving Stillwater, planning a year in advance is standard. Most schools, like St. Croix Prep, Providence Academy, and Trinity, begin their application processes in the fall (September-October) for admission the following academic year. Key steps usually include open houses/information nights (often in fall), submission of applications by January or February, student assessments or shadow days, and family interviews. Notification of admission decisions typically goes out in March. Waiting lists are common, so initiating the process early is highly recommended. Parochial schools in Stillwater proper may have more rolling admissions but still benefit from early inquiry.
For a family in Stillwater, what are the key considerations when choosing between the high-performing public schools and a private option?
The decision in Stillwater often centers on educational philosophy, class size, and specific program offerings. Stillwater Area Public Schools (SAPS) are highly rated and offer a comprehensive, large-district experience with extensive AP courses, sports, and activities. Private options typically offer smaller class sizes, a specific religious or values-based foundation (if faith-based), and distinct pedagogical approaches like classical education. For families, the choice may come down to whether they seek the diversity and scale of SAPS or a more tailored, mission-driven community, even if it involves a tuition investment and potentially a longer commute to schools outside Stillwater proper.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities