The Best Private Schools in Malmstrom Afb, Montana
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Malmstrom Afb. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Thomas More Elementary School
Great Falls Catholic Schools
St. Thomas More Elementary School is a highly-rated Catholic private school serving the Great Falls area, including families from Malmstrom AFB. The school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with a strong emphasis on faith formation, academic excellence, and character development. Their curriculum includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, music, and competitive athletics. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and dedicated teachers with an average of 15+ years of experience. Many military families choose this school for its welcoming community and consistent academic performance.
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Great Falls Central Catholic High School
Great Falls Catholic Schools
Great Falls Central Catholic High School is a premier college preparatory school serving the Great Falls region, including Malmstrom AFB military families. The school offers a rigorous academic program with multiple Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive college counseling, and a 100% college acceptance rate. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. The school emphasizes leadership development and community service, making it particularly appealing to military families seeking a structured, values-based education.
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C.M. Russell High School
Great Falls Public Schools (Public with Private-level Programs)
While technically a public school, C.M. Russell High School offers private-school caliber programs that serve many Malmstrom AFB families seeking advanced educational opportunities. The school features an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, extensive Advanced Placement courses, and comprehensive Career & Technical Education pathways. Their facilities include advanced STEM labs, professional-grade culinary arts kitchen, automotive technology center, and outstanding athletic facilities. The school has received numerous state and national recognitions for academic excellence and serves as a primary educational institution for military-connected students in the Great Falls area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Malmstrom Afb, Montana
What are the realistic private school options for families living on or near Malmstrom AFB in Montana?
While Malmstrom AFB itself does not host private schools, families typically look to the neighboring city of Great Falls, approximately 5 miles west. The primary private options are faith-based institutions, including St. Thomas More Elementary School (Pre-K through 8) and Great Falls Central Catholic High School (9-12). It's important to note that C.M. Russell High School is a public school, not private. Transportation from the base is a key consideration, as most families will need to commute. Some families also explore smaller private or parochial options in Great Falls, but these two are the most prominent.
How does Montana's tuition tax credit program affect private school affordability for military and civilian families in the Malmstrom AFB area?
Montana's Tax Credit for Contributions to Student Scholarship Organizations (SSOs) can significantly aid affordability. Donors to approved SSOs receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit, which funds scholarships for eligible students to attend private schools like Great Falls Central Catholic. For Malmstrom AFB families, this means scholarship opportunities may be available based on financial need, not military status. It's crucial to contact the schools' financial offices directly to apply for these scholarships and understand eligibility, as this state-specific program can reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs.
What unique academic or support programs do private schools near Malmstrom AFB offer that cater to military-connected children?
Private schools in Great Falls, such as St. Thomas More and Great Falls Central Catholic, while not on base, are experienced in serving military families from Malmstrom AFB. They often demonstrate flexibility with enrollment timelines mid-year due to PCS moves and provide strong, close-knit communities that can help new students integrate quickly. Great Falls Central Catholic, for example, offers a structured environment and college-prep curriculum that can provide stability during transitions. While they may not have dedicated "military counselor" positions, their smaller class sizes allow for more personalized attention to help children adjust academically and socially.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools serving the Malmstrom AFB community, and how should I plan for a PCS move?
Enrollment for the following academic year typically opens in January-February, with priority deadlines in early spring. However, schools like St. Thomas More and Great Falls Central Catholic are accustomed to the unpredictable nature of military life and often accommodate mid-year enrollments for families PCSing to Malmstrom AFB. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview. It is highly recommended to contact the school admissions office as soon as you have orders, even before arriving in Montana. Proactive communication is key to securing a spot, especially in sought-after grades.
How do the private school environments in Great Falls compare to the on-base public schools for Malmstrom AFB families?
The decision involves several local factors. Children living on base attend Great Falls Public Schools (like Meadow Lark Elementary or East Middle School) through a partnership. The primary advantages of the local private schools are smaller class sizes, a specific religious education (if desired), and a consistent peer group less affected by the high turnover of military families. The on-base/public school option offers the convenience of proximity, transportation, and dedicated programs for military children within a larger, more diverse system. For many Malmstrom families, the choice boils down to prioritizing educational philosophy and community type versus the logistical ease and specialized support of the base-connected public schools.
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