The Best Private Schools in Redford, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Redford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Seton Catholic Central School
Diocese of Ogdensburg
Seton Catholic Central School is a highly-regarded private Catholic school serving the North Country region including Redford. Founded in 1955, the school offers comprehensive education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on college preparation. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Seton Catholic provides individualized attention and maintains high academic standards. The school offers numerous Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong community values.
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St. Mary's School
Diocese of Ogdensburg
St. Mary's School serves the Adirondack region including Redford with a strong elementary education program from pre-K through 6th grade. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, integrating Catholic values throughout the curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer labs, and a library media center. The school offers specialized instruction in music, art, and physical education, along with after-school programs and community service opportunities. Parents appreciate the school's family-like atmosphere and the dedication of teachers who provide personalized attention to students. The school has maintained its reputation for academic quality and community involvement for over five decades.
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St. John's Academy
Independent Catholic School
St. John's Academy provides private Catholic education serving families throughout Clinton County, including the Redford area. The school offers kindergarten through 8th grade education with a focus on academic excellence rooted in Catholic tradition. The curriculum includes comprehensive core subjects enhanced by technology integration, foreign language exposure, and fine arts programs. The school features small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a safe, nurturing environment. Extracurricular activities include sports, music programs, and community service projects. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's academic rigor, caring faculty, and strong sense of community that prepares students well for high school and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Redford, New York
What are the main private school options available for K-12 education in Redford, New York?
Redford, NY, offers a few key private school options, primarily with a Catholic educational foundation. The notable institutions include Seton Catholic Central School, which typically serves middle and high school grades; St. Mary's School, often covering elementary and sometimes middle grades; and St. John's Academy. Given the rural nature of Clinton County, these schools serve not only Redford but also families from surrounding towns like Plattsburgh and Morrisonville. It's important to note that the exact grade ranges can vary, so contacting each school directly for their current configuration is essential. There are limited non-religious private school options within Redford itself, so many families also consider independent schools in the broader Plattsburgh area.
How does tuition at Redford's private schools compare to the New York State average, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition at Redford's private schools like Seton Catholic Central, St. Mary's, and St. John's Academy is generally below the statewide average for New York private schools, reflecting the region's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect elementary tuition to range approximately from $4,000 to $7,000 annually, with high school potentially higher. New York State offers significant financial aid opportunities that Redford families can access. The most notable is the **Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) for non-public schools**, which is a needs-based grant for eligible K-12 students. Additionally, many diocesan schools offer parish subsidy discounts for active church members, and the schools themselves typically have limited scholarship funds. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early in the admissions cycle.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Redford, NY, offer that leverage the local North Country environment?
Private schools in Redford and the surrounding Clinton County area often integrate the unique Adirondack North Country culture and environment into their programs. This can include outdoor education initiatives like environmental science projects focused on local ecosystems, history units on the region's role in the War of 1812 and logging industry, and partnerships with local SUNY Plattsburgh for advanced coursework or enrichment. Extracurriculars may emphasize outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, or conservation clubs. Furthermore, the small, close-knit community atmosphere of these schools allows for personalized attention and a strong focus on character education, which is a hallmark of their mission in this rural part of New York.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Seton Catholic Central in Redford, NY?
The enrollment timeline for Redford-area private schools typically begins in the winter for the following fall. Open houses are often held between January and March. The process usually involves submitting an application (often available online) by a spring deadline, which can be as early as March or April for priority consideration. This is followed by submission of records from the current school, a family interview, and possibly a student assessment. For schools like Seton Catholic Central, which draw from a wider geographic area, applying early is advised due to limited space, especially in specific grades. Many schools also require registration fees and tuition deposit deadlines in the spring to secure a spot. It's highly recommended to contact the school's admissions office directly in the fall prior to your desired enrollment year.
For a family moving to Redford, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district (likely Ausable Valley Central School District) and the available private schools?
The decision between Ausable Valley Central School District and Redford's private schools involves several local factors. **Private schools** offer smaller class sizes, a specific religious (Catholic) education if desired, and a tight-knit community feel. They may have more flexibility in curriculum but potentially fewer broad elective offerings or large-scale sports facilities compared to the public high school. **Ausable Valley public schools** provide a tuition-free education, a wider range of extracurriculars and AP courses due to larger size, and services for diverse learning needs. Transportation to private schools may be provided by the public district but is subject to specific distance and grade rules under New York State law. Many families in the area choose based on values alignment, desired class size, and whether they seek a faith-based education, given the strong community role of the local Catholic parishes. Visiting both types of schools is the best way to gauge the right fit.
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