The Best Private Schools in Itta Bena, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Itta Bena. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Jackson Preparatory School
Independent
Jackson Preparatory School is consistently ranked among Mississippi's top private schools and serves students from throughout the state, including the Itta Bena region. Established in 1970, this independent college preparatory school offers a challenging academic curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses. The school features exceptional facilities including modern classrooms, science and technology labs, athletic complexes, and arts facilities. Jackson Prep is known for its strong community atmosphere, high academic standards, and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The school maintains an excellent college placement record and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Programs:
Jackson Academy
Independent
Jackson Academy is one of Mississippi's premier private schools, serving students from across the state including the Itta Bena area. Founded in 1959, this independent school offers a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement offerings and specialized STEM programs. The 52-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science and technology labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts centers. Jackson Academy consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and maintains strong academic standards. The school provides transportation options and serves as a regional educational hub for families seeking top-tier private education.
Programs:
Pillow Academy
Independent
Pillow Academy is a highly-regarded private school located just 15 minutes from Itta Bena in Greenwood. Established in 1969, this independent school serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade with a comprehensive college preparatory program. The school features a robust academic curriculum including multiple Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletic programs, and extensive fine arts offerings. With modern facilities including science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces, Pillow Academy has maintained strong academic results and high parent satisfaction ratings for over five decades. The school serves students from throughout the Mississippi Delta region.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Itta Bena, Mississippi
Are there any private schools physically located within the city limits of Itta Bena, Mississippi?
No, there are no private K-12 schools physically located within the city limits of Itta Bena, Mississippi. Families in Itta Bena seeking private education typically look at well-regarded independent schools in other parts of the state, most commonly in the Jackson metropolitan area, which is about a 90-minute drive away. The schools most frequently considered by Delta region families include Pillow Academy in Greenwood (approximately 30 minutes away), Jackson Academy, and Jackson Preparatory School in Jackson.
What is the typical tuition range for the private schools that Itta Bena families consider, and are there financial aid options specific to Mississippi?
Tuition for the primary private schools serving Itta Bena families varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Pillow Academy's tuition ranges from approximately $8,000 to $10,000, while Jackson-area schools like Jackson Academy and Jackson Prep have tuition that can range from $12,000 to $20,000+ depending on the grade level. Importantly, Mississippi offers the "Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs Program," a state-funded ESA (Education Scholarship Account) that can provide over $6,800 per student to help cover private school tuition for eligible students with an IEP. Additionally, most private schools offer their own need-based financial aid, and some participate in local scholarship funds for the Delta region.
For a family in Itta Bena, what are the logistics and considerations for commuting to a private school like Pillow Academy or a Jackson school?
Commuting is a significant factor for Itta Bena families. Pillow Academy in Greenwood is the closest option, involving a daily 30-40 minute drive each way. Some families form carpools. For Jackson schools (a 90-minute commute), boarding options are extremely rare, so this typically requires a family relocation or a very long daily drive, which is uncommon. Many families who choose Jackson schools move to the Jackson area. Alternatively, some explore weekday living arrangements with relatives. The commute impacts extracurricular participation and daily family logistics, making proximity a top priority for most.
How do the academic and extracurricular programs at regional private schools compare to the public options available in the Itta Bena area?
The Leflore County Public School District, which serves Itta Bena, faces significant financial and academic challenges, often reflected in state accountability ratings. In contrast, private schools like Pillow Academy, Jackson Academy, and Jackson Prep offer smaller class sizes, more robust college preparatory curricula (including numerous AP and honors courses), and extensive extracurricular programs in arts, athletics, and clubs. These schools consistently boast high graduation and college acceptance rates. The trade-off, beyond cost, is the commute. For families seeking a structured, college-prep environment with more resources, the regional private schools present a distinct alternative to the local public system.
What is the enrollment timeline and process like for a Mississippi private school like Pillow Academy, and when should an Itta Bena family start?
The process for schools like Pillow Academy typically begins a full year in advance. Prospective families should start researching and visiting in the fall (September-October). Application deadlines are often in January or February for the following academic year, requiring submission of transcripts, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, and a student interview. Admission decisions are usually communicated in March. Given the limited seats and the number of families from the Delta region applying, starting early is crucial. It is highly recommended that Itta Bena families initiate contact with the admissions office by the start of their child's prior academic year to ensure they understand all requirements and deadlines.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities