The Best Private Schools in Alexandria, Nebraska
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Alexandria. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. John's Lutheran School
Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
St. John's Lutheran School offers a Christ-centered education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The school features small class sizes, dedicated certified teachers, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes religious studies, STEM activities, and arts programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the school for its supportive community, high parent satisfaction, and extracurricular offerings like sports and music. Serving the Alexandria area, it provides a nurturing environment for students from preschool through elementary grades.
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St. Peter's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Lincoln
St. Peter's Catholic School provides a well-rounded education focused on academic achievement and spiritual growth, drawing students from Alexandria and nearby areas. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and facilities such as smart classrooms, a gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Programs include a strong core curriculum enhanced by art, music, and technology integration. Parents highlight the school's caring environment, high level of community involvement, and extracurricular options like sports and clubs. It has a reputation for excellence in fostering both intellectual and moral development.
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St. Joseph's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Lincoln
St. Joseph's Catholic School is renowned for its rigorous academic program integrated with Catholic values, serving students from Alexandria and surrounding regions. The school boasts experienced faculty, updated facilities including science labs and technology resources, and a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and faith formation. Extracurricular activities include basketball, choir, and community service projects. With high parent satisfaction and a track record of student success, it fosters a close-knit community atmosphere and holistic development for grades K-8.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Alexandria, Nebraska
What are the private school options for K-12 education in Alexandria, Nebraska?
Alexandria, NE, offers faith-based private education through three primary institutions. St. John's Lutheran School provides a Lutheran education. St. Joseph's Catholic School and St. Peter's Catholic School offer Catholic education rooted in their respective parish communities. It's important to note that these schools typically cover grades from Pre-K or Kindergarten through 8th grade. For high school, families in Alexandria often consider commuting to Catholic high schools in larger nearby cities, exploring boarding school options, or transitioning to the local public high school. Directly contacting each school for their specific grade offerings is recommended.
How does tuition at Alexandria's private schools compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Nebraska?
Tuition at Alexandria's private schools is generally more affordable than in urban areas, reflecting the local cost of living, but varies between institutions. As parish schools, St. Joseph's and St. Peter's often offer reduced tuition rates for active members of their supporting Catholic parishes. St. John's Lutheran School has a similar structure for congregational members. All schools likely have multi-child discounts. Nebraska offers the Opportunity Scholarships Act, a tax-credit scholarship program that provides financial assistance to eligible families choosing private schools. Additionally, some schools may participate in the Nebraska Tuition Credit Program for certain educational expenses. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school's office for the most current tuition schedules and aid applications.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Alexandria, NE, offer that distinguish them from the public school?
The private schools in Alexandria distinguish themselves through their faith-integrated curricula, where religious education and values are woven into daily lessons. They often feature smaller class sizes, leading to more individualized attention. A strong sense of community and partnership with the local church parishes is a hallmark. While the public school may offer a wider range of elective courses and sports teams due to its larger size, the private schools focus on core academic excellence within a specific moral framework. Extracurriculars often include faith-based activities, choir, and community service projects. For specialized programs like advanced STEM labs or extensive language courses, the public district might have more resources, making it important for parents to prioritize their child's needs.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools in Alexandria?
The enrollment process for Alexandria's private schools usually begins in early winter or spring for the following academic year, with priority often given to re-enrolling students and siblings. For St. Joseph's and St. Peter's Catholic Schools, priority is typically given to active parishioners. The process generally involves submitting an application form, providing birth and baptismal certificates (for Catholic schools), academic records, and possibly a family interview. Some schools may have a deadline for guaranteed consideration. Given the small size of these schools, spaces can fill quickly, especially in younger grades. It is highly advisable to contact the school principal or office in the fall prior to your desired enrollment year to express interest and get specific dates and requirements.
For a family new to Alexandria, Nebraska, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local private schools and the public school district?
The key considerations involve your family's values, educational priorities, and logistics. If a faith-based education aligned with Lutheran or Catholic teachings is a priority, the private schools are the clear choice. They offer a close-knit community environment. Consider the financial commitment of tuition versus no-cost public education. Logistically, the public school (District 19) provides a seamless K-12 pathway all within Alexandria, while private education ends at 8th grade, requiring a decision for high school. Academically, visit both types of schools; the public school may offer more diverse electives, technology, and sports, while private schools offer focused core curriculum with religious integration. For newcomers, attending church services and speaking with current parents at each institution can provide invaluable local insight.