The Best Private Schools in Ithaca, Nebraska
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Ithaca. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Pius X High School
Catholic Diocese of Lincoln
Pius X High School is a top-rated Catholic high school renowned for its rigorous academic programs, including a wide array of AP courses, and exceptional athletic teams. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, highly qualified teachers, and a vibrant campus life with diverse extracurricular activities. Despite being founded before 1970, it remains a premier choice for families in Ithaca and nearby communities due to its outstanding reputation, high graduation rates, and strong college placement record. Parent reviews highlight its commitment to holistic student development and community engagement.
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Lincoln Christian School
Independent Christian School
Lincoln Christian School is a highly-regarded private institution offering a comprehensive Christian-based education from preschool through 12th grade. Known for its strong academic rigor, dedicated faculty, and modern facilities, the school emphasizes college preparation, character development, and spiritual growth. It features robust extracurricular programs including athletics, fine arts, and community service, with high parent satisfaction ratings for its supportive environment and individualized attention. The school serves students from Ithaca and surrounding areas with transportation options available.
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Lincoln Lutheran School
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Lincoln Lutheran School provides a faith-based education focused on academic excellence and spiritual formation. With a curriculum that includes advanced STEM courses, fine arts, and competitive athletics, the school boasts experienced teachers and well-maintained facilities. Parents consistently praise its safe, nurturing community and strong student outcomes. It attracts families from Ithaca and the broader region, offering a balanced approach to education that prepares students for college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Ithaca, Nebraska
What are the private school options for families living in Ithaca, Nebraska, and are there any schools located directly in Ithaca?
There are no private schools physically located within the village of Ithaca itself due to its small size. However, families in Ithaca commonly look to private schools in the nearby city of Lincoln, which is about a 25-minute drive away. The top-regarded options include Pius X High School (Catholic, grades 9-12), Lincoln Lutheran School (Lutheran, grades 6-12), and Lincoln Christian School (interdenominational Christian, PreK-12). Enrollment from Ithaca is common, and these schools often provide bus transportation or have carpool networks for families commuting from surrounding communities.
How does tuition at Lincoln-area private schools compare for Ithaca residents, and are there any Nebraska-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for the Lincoln private schools accessible to Ithaca families varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $6,000 to $10,000+ annually for K-12, with high school often at the higher end. A key Nebraska-specific benefit is the **Opportunity Scholarships Act**, which provides tax credits for donations to scholarship-granting organizations. This can increase the availability of need-based scholarships for Iowa families. Additionally, all mentioned schools offer their own financial aid and multi-child discounts. It's important to factor in commuting costs when calculating the total investment.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the Lincoln private schools offer that might benefit a student from a smaller community like Ithaca?
These schools offer programs that expand opportunities beyond what a small public school district might provide. Pius X High School has a renowned robotics team and extensive world language offerings. Lincoln Christian School emphasizes a worldview-integrated curriculum and has strong fine arts programs. Lincoln Lutheran offers a distinctive "House System" for student mentorship and a focused college-prep curriculum. For an Ithaca student, these schools provide access to broader elective choices, more competitive athletic conferences (like the NSAA), and specialized facilities (e.g., dedicated science labs, theaters) that are comparable to larger public schools but in a faith-based, smaller-class-size environment.
What is the enrollment process and timeline for an Ithaca family applying to a private high school like Pius X or Lincoln Lutheran?
The process typically begins a full year in advance. For fall enrollment, applications for schools like Pius X and Lincoln Lutheran often open in **August or September** with priority deadlines in **January or February**. The process involves submitting an application, academic records from your Ithaca school, teacher recommendations, and a family interview. Many require an entrance exam (like the HSPT) held in the winter. It's crucial to apply early, as some grades fill quickly. As an out-of-district family, you are not at a disadvantage, but you should proactively contact the admissions office to discuss transportation logistics and attend their open houses, which are usually held in the fall.
For an Ithaca family, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (e.g., Norris School District) and a private school in Lincoln?
The decision hinges on several Ithaca-specific factors. The **Norris School District** is highly rated and provides a close-knit, community-based education with minimal commute. Choosing a Lincoln private school involves a significant daily commute but offers a faith-based education (if desired) and a different peer environment. Academically, Norris is excellent, but private schools may offer more specialized religious instruction or alternative pedagogical approaches. Extracurricularly, Norris has strong programs, but private schools may offer different niches (e.g., specific faith-based clubs, different sports leagues). Ultimately, families must weigh the importance of religious education, the desired school culture, commute tolerance, and financial investment against the convenience and quality of the local public option.