The Best Private Schools in Hastings, Nebraska
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Hastings. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Cecilia Middle School/High School
Catholic Schools of Grand Island
St. Cecilia is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving grades 7-12 with a strong college preparatory focus. The school features a comprehensive academic program with Advanced Placement opportunities, competitive athletics in multiple sports, and robust fine arts offerings. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, St. Cecilia emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. The school maintains modern facilities and has a long tradition of serving the Hastings community with high parent satisfaction ratings.
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Hastings Catholic Schools Preschool
Catholic Schools of Grand Island
Hastings Catholic Schools Preschool provides early childhood education within the St. Cecilia campus, serving children ages 3-5. The program focuses on school readiness through developmentally appropriate activities, social skills development, and early literacy and numeracy foundations. With certified early childhood educators and a structured yet nurturing environment, the preschool has earned excellent parent reviews for its preparation of young learners for elementary education. The program benefits from shared facilities and resources with the larger Catholic school system.
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St. Michael's Elementary School
Catholic Schools of Grand Island
St. Michael's Elementary School provides Catholic education for Pre-K through 6th grade students in Hastings. The school offers a well-rounded curriculum that integrates faith formation with strong academic foundations. Features include dedicated technology resources, music and art programs, and a supportive learning environment. Parents consistently praise the school's caring community, experienced teachers, and focus on developing the whole child. The school maintains strong parent involvement and community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Hastings, Nebraska
What are the primary private school options available for a K-12 education in Hastings, Nebraska?
In Hastings, the primary private school system is the Hastings Catholic Schools (HCS), which offers a continuous, faith-based education from preschool through 12th grade. This system includes St. Michael's Elementary School (preschool-5th grade), St. Cecilia Middle School (6th-8th), and St. Cecilia High School (9th-12th). As of now, these are the only established private schools serving the city, providing a centralized, Catholic educational pathway. For families seeking non-religious or other denominational private options, exploring schools in nearby larger cities like Grand Island or Lincoln may be necessary.
How does the tuition for Hastings Catholic Schools compare to the Nebraska state average, and what financial aid options are available locally?
Tuition at Hastings Catholic Schools is generally below the state average for private schools in Nebraska, reflecting the area's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, elementary tuition is approximately $3,500-$4,000, while high school is around $5,500-$6,000, with discounted rates for registered parishioners and multiple children. Importantly, Nebraska offers the Opportunity Scholarships Act, a tax-credit scholarship program that provides financial assistance to eligible families choosing private schools. Additionally, HCS has its own need-based aid and parish subsidy programs, and many local families utilize fundraising and scholarship endowments specific to the Hastings community.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Hastings private schools offer that leverage the local community?
St. Cecilia High School offers distinctive programs tied to Hastings' identity. Academically, there is a strong emphasis on agricultural science and FFA, reflecting Nebraska's core industry, with opportunities for hands-on learning at local farms and the Nebraska State Fair grounds. The school also has a renowned music program, with choirs and bands that frequently perform at community events like Hastings' annual Kool-Aid Days celebration. Extracurricularly, St. Cecilia's athletic teams (the Bluehawks) compete in the Nebraska School Activities Association and have a strong rivalry with local public schools, fostering deep community engagement.
What is the enrollment process and timeline for Hastings Catholic Schools, and are there considerations for non-Catholic families?
The enrollment process for Hastings Catholic Schools typically opens in January for the following academic year, with priority given to current families and registered parishioners of associated Catholic churches. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, and a registration fee. Open enrollment for new families continues through the spring, but spaces, particularly in specific grades, can fill quickly. Non-Catholic families are welcome to apply and comprise a portion of the student body. These families participate in religious classes and services but are not required to convert. An interview with school administration may be part of the process for new families to ensure alignment with the school's mission and community values.
For a family moving to Hastings, what are the key factors in choosing between the private Hastings Catholic Schools system and the public Hastings Public Schools district?
The key decision factors often center on educational approach, size, and community. Hastings Catholic Schools offer a small, close-knit, faith-based environment with consistent class sizes from K-12, emphasizing moral development and family involvement. The public Hastings Public Schools (HPS) district offers a larger, more diverse student population, a wider array of elective courses, advanced placement options, and specialized career academies at the high school level. For athletics and activities, HPS offers more variety, while HCS offers more opportunities for individual student participation. Many Hastings families value the deep, multi-generational community within the Catholic schools, while others prefer the no-tuition, comprehensive offerings of the public system. Visiting both a St. Cecilia campus and a Hastings public school is highly recommended to feel the distinct cultures.