The Best Private Schools in Waverly, Nebraska
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Waverly. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lincoln Lutheran Middle/High School
Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
Lincoln Lutheran Middle/High School is a highly regarded private Christian school serving grades 6-12, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong emphasis on faith-based education. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with advanced placement courses, robust athletic teams, and extensive fine arts opportunities. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, a gymnasium, and performing arts spaces. Parent satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community environment. The school consistently achieves strong academic outcomes and is accredited by the National Lutheran School Accreditation.
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Lincoln Christian School
Independent Christian School
Lincoln Christian School provides a holistic private education from kindergarten
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Quality Private School 3
Independent School
A trusted private school serving the Waverly community with quality education and personalized learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Waverly, Nebraska
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Waverly, Nebraska?
While Waverly itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby Lincoln for private school options. The most commonly considered schools include Lincoln Lutheran Middle/High School (a Lutheran, LCMS school serving grades 6-12) and Lincoln Christian School (a non-denominational Christian school serving Pre-K through 12th grade). These schools are approximately a 15-20 minute commute from Waverly. There are no major private school campuses physically located within Waverly's city limits, so planning for transportation to Lincoln is an important consideration for Waverly residents.
How does the tuition for private schools near Waverly, NE, compare, and are there any Nebraska-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for schools like Lincoln Lutheran and Lincoln Christian varies by grade level but generally ranges from approximately $8,000 to $11,000 per year for elementary and middle school, and can be higher for high school. A key Nebraska-specific financial consideration is the **Nebraska Opportunity Grant (NOG)**, which is need-based aid for Nebraska residents attending private, non-profit colleges, but does not apply to K-12. However, many Nebraska private schools participate in the **Tax Credit Scholarship Program**, established by the Nebraska Legislature (LB 753). This allows donors to receive a tax credit for contributions to scholarship-granting organizations, which then provide need-based scholarships to students attending private schools. Families should inquire directly with each school about their financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools serving Waverly students offer?
Schools in the Lincoln area offer programs that differentiate them from Waverly's public schools. Lincoln Lutheran is known for its strong STEM curriculum, competitive athletics in the Nebraska Capitol Conference, and extensive music and fine arts programs rooted in its Lutheran tradition. Lincoln Christian offers a distinctive "Portrait of a Graduate" framework focusing on spiritual, academic, and personal growth, along with specialized tracks and dual-enrollment opportunities with local colleges. For Waverly families, these programs provide alternatives to the offerings of Waverly Public Schools, often with a specific faith-based integration and smaller class sizes.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Lincoln Lutheran that serve Waverly families?
The enrollment process for schools like Lincoln Lutheran and Lincoln Christian usually begins in the winter for the following academic year (e.g., January-February). It is crucial for Waverly families to apply early, as spaces can be limited and some grades fill quickly. The process typically involves an online application, submission of past academic records, a family interview, and often a placement assessment for the student. Many schools host open houses in the fall. Given the commute from Waverly, attending these events and planning for transportation logistics should be part of the decision-making process from the start.
For a family in Waverly, what are the key factors when comparing the local public school district to private schools in Lincoln?
The key comparison points for Waverly families are fundamentally about educational approach and community. Waverly Public Schools (District 145) is a highly-rated, single-campus district (K-12) offering convenience, no tuition, and strong academic and athletic programs within the community. Choosing a private school in Lincoln involves a commitment to a daily commute, tuition, and a specific faith-based education (if choosing a Christian school). The trade-off often includes smaller class sizes, a particular religious or values-based curriculum, and different extracurricular niches. The decision frequently hinges on whether a family prioritizes the deep community integration of the local public school or the specialized mission and environment of a private institution, despite the added cost and travel.