The Best Private Schools in Willernie, Minnesota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Willernie. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Croix Preparatory Academy
St. Croix Preparatory Academy
St. Croix Preparatory Academy is a highly-rated K-12 charter school located just minutes from Willernie in Stillwater. The school offers a rigorous classical education model with strong emphasis on liberal arts, STEM programs, and character development. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school consistently achieves high academic performance and college acceptance rates. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The school serves students from across the St. Croix Valley region including Willernie families.
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Mahtomedi Public School Academy
Mahtomedi School District
Mahtomedi Public School Academy serves as the district's flagship school offering comprehensive K-12 education with prestigious International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs. Located just 5 miles from Willernie, the school is known for academic excellence, strong arts programs, and competitive athletics. The district consistently ranks among Minnesota's top school systems with high graduation rates and college readiness scores. Facilities include state-of-the-art technology labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes serving the broader Mahtomedi/Willernie community.
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St. Jude of the Lake School
Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis
St. Jude of the Lake School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving PreK-8 students in the Mahtomedi/Willernie area. The school provides a strong faith-based education combined with rigorous academics, including enhanced STEM curriculum and fine arts programs. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, the school emphasizes character development and community service. The campus features modern classrooms, technology labs, and shared facilities with the parish. Many graduates continue to top-tier high schools in the region, making it a popular choice for Willernie families seeking private education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Willernie, Minnesota
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Willernie, Minnesota?
While Willernie itself is a very small city, families have access to several highly-regarded private and charter schools in the immediate surrounding area. The most prominent options include St. Croix Preparatory Academy (a tuition-free public charter school in nearby Stillwater), St. Jude of the Lake School (a private Catholic school in Mahtomedi), and Mahtomedi Public School Academy (another public charter school). Many Willernie families also consider private schools in the broader St. Croix River Valley and the Twin Cities metro. Transportation is a key consideration, as most options require a short commute.
How does the tuition-free model of St. Croix Preparatory Academy work, and are there still costs for Willernie residents?
St. Croix Prep is a public charter school, meaning it is tuition-free for all Minnesota residents, including those in Willernie. However, like most schools, there are ancillary costs. Families should budget for fees for activities, technology, certain field trips, and athletics. Fundraising is also a part of the school culture. For true private schools like St. Jude of the Lake, tuition applies, but they offer parish subsidies for member families and financial aid programs. It's important to contact each school directly for the most current fee and tuition schedules.
What specialized academic programs or focuses are available at private and charter schools near Willernie, MN?
Schools in the area offer distinct academic profiles. St. Croix Preparatory Academy is known for its rigorous classical, liberal arts education model with a strong emphasis on leadership and character. St. Jude of the Lake School provides a faith-based education integrated with STEM initiatives and personalized learning. Mahtomedi Public School Academy focuses on project-based learning and environmental science. The proximity to the Twin Cities also allows for partnerships with local organizations and colleges, enhancing science, arts, and language programs.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Willernie, Minnesota families?
Timelines vary significantly. For charter schools like St. Croix Prep and Mahtomedi Public School Academy, there is an annual open enrollment period (typically in the winter) for the following school year. If applications exceed seats, a public lottery is held. For private schools like St. Jude of the Lake, applications often open in the fall, with rolling admissions until classes are filled. Many schools host open houses in the fall and winter. Given the competitive nature of some schools, especially the charters, starting the process early—often a full year in advance—is highly recommended for Willernie parents.
How do the private and charter school options near Willernie compare to the assigned public school (Mahtomedi Public Schools)?
Willernie is part of the highly-rated Mahtomedi Public Schools district, which is a key consideration. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy and environment. Mahtomedi Public Schools offer a comprehensive, traditional public education with strong arts and athletics. St. Croix Prep offers a structured, classical curriculum. St. Jude offers a smaller, faith-based community. The charter schools provide choice within the public system but with specialized themes. Many families in Willernie value having these distinct options, allowing them to select the model that best fits their child's learning style and family values, even if it means forgoing the neighborhood school.
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