The Best Private Schools in Catawissa, Missouri
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Catawissa. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Wilson School
Independent Private School
The Wilson School is an independent private school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, with families commuting from throughout the St. Louis metro area including Franklin County. The school offers an accelerated academic program with small class sizes, daily Spanish instruction beginning in preschool, and comprehensive STEAM curriculum. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, innovation spaces, and athletic facilities. Wilson School graduates consistently gain admission to top private high schools, and the school maintains exceptional parent satisfaction ratings for its academic rigor and nurturing environment.
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St. Francis Borgia Regional High School
Archdiocese of St. Louis
St. Francis Borgia Regional High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students from multiple counties including Franklin County where Catawissa is located. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 16 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM initiatives, and competitive athletic programs. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Parents consistently praise the school's strong community values and academic excellence.
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St. Clare of Assisi School
Archdiocese of St. Louis
St. Clare of Assisi School serves students from preschool through 8th grade and draws families from across the St. Louis metropolitan area, including Franklin County. The school emphasizes academic excellence within a Catholic faith community, offering advanced mathematics, comprehensive language arts, and integrated technology programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, STEM labs, and extensive athletic fields. The school is known for its strong parent community and individualized attention, with many graduates advancing to top-tier private high schools in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Catawissa, Missouri
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Catawissa, Missouri?
While Catawissa itself is a small town, families have access to several well-regarded private schools in the surrounding Franklin County area. The most prominent options include St. Francis Borgia Regional High School (grades 9-12) and St. Clare of Assisi School (grades Pre-K through 8), both Catholic institutions located in nearby Washington, MO. For families seeking an independent school, The Wilson School in Clayton, MO, is a highly respected option, though it is a longer commute. Many Catawissa families choose these schools for their structured environments, faith-based education (where applicable), and strong academic reputations within the Missouri educational landscape.
How does tuition for private schools near Catawissa, MO, compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Missouri?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Clare of Assisi elementary tuition is approximately $5,000-$7,000, while St. Francis Borgia Regional High School tuition is around $10,000-$12,000. The Wilson School, as an elite independent school, has tuition exceeding $25,000. Importantly, Missouri offers the "MOScholars" program, a tax-credit scholarship for eligible students (including those with IEPs or from lower-income families) to attend private schools. Additionally, all the mentioned schools offer their own need-based financial aid and parish subsidies for active members, which are crucial considerations for Catawissa-area families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Catawissa offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools serving Catawissa emphasize specialized programs that may not be as robust in smaller public districts. St. Francis Borgia Regional High School is known for its strong STEM curriculum, competitive athletics in the Archdiocesan Athletic Association, and extensive theology and service requirements. St. Clare of Assisi integrates faith throughout its curriculum and offers Spanish instruction from a young age. The Wilson School features project-based learning, small class sizes, and a focus on global citizenship. For Catawissa parents, these programs offer alternatives to the standard public school curriculum, often with more individualized attention and distinct philosophical approaches.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Francis Borgia or St. Clare in the Catawissa area?
Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically opens in January or February, with priority often given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of supporting Catholic churches. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. For high school, placement tests are common. It's highly advisable for Catawissa families to attend open houses, usually held in the fall, and to apply early, as spaces, particularly in younger grades, can be limited. Waiting lists are common at these sought-after schools.
For a family living in Catawissa, what are the key logistical considerations when choosing a private school, such as transportation and community fit?
The major logistical factor for Catawissa residents is transportation, as none of the top private schools are located within the town itself. Most families must commit to a daily commute of 20-45 minutes to Washington or much longer to Clayton. Some schools offer limited bus service from centralized locations, but carpooling is common. Community fit is also vital; the Catholic schools foster a close-knit, faith-centered community that extends beyond the classroom, which can be a significant draw. Parents should consider whether the school's values align with their own and if the commute is sustainable for their family's lifestyle in a more rural Missouri setting.
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