The Best Private Schools in Urbana, Missouri
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Urbana. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
New Covenant Academy
New Covenant Academy
New Covenant Academy is a highly-regarded Christian private school located approximately 45 minutes from Urbana. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with strong emphasis on both academic excellence and character development. With small class sizes averaging 15 students, NCA provides personalized attention and features modern facilities including science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. The school serves students from preschool through 12th grade and has a strong track record of college acceptance. Extracurricular programs include competitive sports, fine arts, and various clubs.
Programs:
Springfield Catholic Schools
Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau
Springfield Catholic Schools is a well-established private school system serving the broader southwest Missouri region, including Urbana families. The institution offers a comprehensive PK-12 Catholic education with a strong academic reputation and extensive extracurricular offerings. The high school features Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics programs, and robust fine arts curriculum. With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, the school emphasizes individualized learning and moral development. The campus includes modern academic buildings, science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic facilities serving approximately 1,000 students across all grade levels.
Programs:
Bolivar Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Bolivar Christian Academy is a respected private Christian school located approximately 30 minutes from Urbana, serving students from preschool through high school. The academy offers a rigorous academic program grounded in Christian values with a strong emphasis on college preparation. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, comprehensive science programs, and technology integration across all grade levels. The school features modern classrooms, computer labs, and athletic facilities. BCA maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and offers various extracurricular activities including sports, music, and community service programs. The school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and character development in the region.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Urbana, Missouri
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Urbana, Missouri?
Urbana, MO, is a small community, so most private school options are located in nearby cities. The most commonly considered schools include New Covenant Academy in Springfield (a non-denominational Christian school), the system of Springfield Catholic Schools (including St. Agnes Elementary and Springfield Catholic High School), and Bolivar Christian Academy in Bolivar. Due to Urbana's rural setting, parents should anticipate a commute of 20-45 minutes to these institutions. Transportation is typically the family's responsibility, which is a key logistical consideration for Urbana residents.
How does tuition at private schools near Urbana, MO, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for private schools in the region surrounding Urbana is generally below the national average but aligns with Missouri's lower cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect K-12 annual tuition ranges from approximately $6,000 to $11,000. Missouri offers two significant financial aid programs: the MOScholars Program, a tax-credit scholarship for eligible students, and the K-12 Tax Credit for donations to certain organizations. Additionally, most schools like New Covenant Academy and Springfield Catholic Schools offer need-based institutional aid and multi-child discounts. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early, as funds can be limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Urbana offer that address the interests of a rural community?
Schools in this region often tailor programs to complement the local context. For instance, several schools have strong agricultural science and FFA chapters, which resonate with the farming heritage of the Urbana area. New Covenant Academy offers a comprehensive STEM program. Springfield Catholic High School provides robust dual-credit and Advanced Placement courses through partnerships with local colleges like Missouri State University, allowing students to earn significant college credit. Bolivar Christian Academy emphasizes a classical Christian education model. These programs provide specialized pathways that may not be as available in smaller public school districts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Urbana, MO, families?
The enrollment process for popular schools like New Covenant Academy and Springfield Catholic Schools often begins nearly a year in advance. Priority application windows for returning families and siblings typically open in January, with open enrollment for new families from February through March. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, a family interview, and often an entrance assessment. Due to the limited seats and demand from the broader region, Urbana families are strongly advised to initiate inquiries in the fall prior to the desired enrollment year. Waiting lists are common, especially for entry grades.
For a family in Urbana, what are the key factors when comparing the local public school (Skyline R-II School District) to private school options?
The key comparison points are scale, environment, and commute. The Skyline R-II School District offers a close-knit, community-based K-12 education with no tuition and minimal commute. Private options require a daily drive but often provide smaller class sizes, specific religious instruction (if desired), and sometimes more extensive college-prep or specialty curricula. For sports and activities, Skyline offers immediate participation, while private schools may have more competitive athletic conferences. The decision often hinges on whether a family prioritizes the convenience and community of the local public school or seeks a specific educational philosophy or religious foundation worth the additional cost and travel time.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities