The Best Private Schools in Boulder, Montana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Boulder. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Butte Central Catholic High School
Butte Central Catholic Schools
Butte Central Catholic High School is a highly-regarded private Catholic school serving southwestern Montana, including the Boulder area. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and faith formation. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities including competitive athletics, music programs, and community service opportunities. The school has maintained a strong reputation for preparing students for college success while fostering moral and spiritual growth.
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Butte Central Elementary School
Butte Central Catholic Schools
Butte Central Elementary School provides exceptional private education for students from preschool through eighth grade, serving families in Boulder and the surrounding region. The school offers a nurturing environment with strong academic foundations, faith-based education, and comprehensive developmental programs. Features include modern facilities, technology integration, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. The school is known for its dedicated faculty, strong community involvement, and excellent track record of preparing students for academic success at the high school level and beyond.
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St. Helena Cathedral School
Diocese of Helena Catholic Schools
St. Helena Cathedral School is a highly-rated Catholic elementary and middle school serving students from Boulder and surrounding communities. The school provides a strong academic foundation with integrated technology, comprehensive arts programs, and faith-based education. With small class sizes and experienced teachers, students receive personalized attention and support. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, character development, and preparation for high school success. The school maintains excellent parent satisfaction ratings and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Boulder, Montana
What are the private school options for families residing in Boulder, Montana, and are there any located directly in town?
For families in Boulder, Montana, there are no private K-12 schools physically located within the town itself. The primary private school options are located in Butte, approximately 30 miles away, and are the main providers for the broader region. These include Butte Central Catholic Schools, which operates Butte Central Elementary School and Butte Central Catholic High School, as well as St. Helena Cathedral School. Parents in Boulder typically commute for these options, and some schools may offer limited transportation or carpool networks. Exploring these Butte-based schools is the standard path for Boulder residents seeking private, faith-based education.
How does tuition at Butte Central Catholic Schools compare to Montana's average private school costs, and what financial aid is available for Boulder families?
Tuition at Butte Central Catholic Schools is generally below the national average for private schools but is representative of costs in Montana. For the 2023-2024 school year, elementary tuition was approximately $4,000-$5,000 annually, with high school around $6,000-$7,000. These figures are often more affordable than larger urban private schools. Significant financial aid is available through the Butte Central Catholic Schools Foundation, parish subsidies for active members, and multi-child discounts. Boulder families are encouraged to apply for aid early, as funds are distributed based on demonstrated need, and the application process is integrated with the admissions timeline.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the Butte-area private schools offer that might justify the commute from Boulder?
Butte Central Catholic Schools offer distinctive programs that blend strong academics with faith-based values. Butte Central High School features a renowned Montana History and Mining Heritage program that leverages Butte's unique historical context. They also provide robust STEM pathways, college dual-credit courses through partnerships with Montana Tech, and competitive athletic programs in the Western A division. St. Helena Cathedral School emphasizes classical education foundations. For Boulder students, these programs offer specialized opportunities that may not be available in smaller public school districts, along with a close-knit community environment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for a Boulder resident applying to Butte Central Catholic Schools?
The enrollment process for Boulder families typically begins in January for the following academic year. Butte Central operates on a rolling admissions basis but prioritizes applications from existing families, parish members, and siblings. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, and a pastor reference form (for Catholic families). An entrance assessment may be required for certain grades. Boulder residents should note that while geographic location is not a barrier, early application is strongly advised to secure placement and to coordinate financial aid discussions. Open houses are usually held in the fall and winter, which involve a commute to Butte.
For a Boulder family, what are the key practical and philosophical considerations when choosing between the local public school and a private school in Butte?
The decision hinges on several Boulder-specific factors. Practically, the daily 30-mile commute to Butte requires significant time and transportation planning, whereas Boulder Public School is within the community. Philosophically, Butte Central offers a consistent Catholic education from K-12, which may align with family values. Academically, the private option may offer smaller class sizes and different curricular choices compared to the rural public school system. Many Boulder families weigh the desire for a faith-based community and specific programs against the convenience and cost-savings of the local public school. Visiting both the Boulder school and the Butte campuses is essential for an informed comparison.