The Best Private Schools in Grand Forks, North Dakota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Grand Forks. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Oak Grove Lutheran School
Oak Grove Lutheran School
While located in Fargo, Oak Grove Lutheran School serves families throughout the Red River Valley region including Grand Forks. This highly respected private school offers comprehensive education from grades 6-12 with a strong college preparatory curriculum rooted in Lutheran values. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, competitive athletic programs, outstanding fine arts opportunities, and a 100% college acceptance rate. Oak Grove's small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide personalized attention, making it a popular choice for families seeking academic excellence in a faith-based environment.
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Holy Family Catholic Schools
Holy Family Catholic Schools
Holy Family Catholic Schools is the premier private school system in Grand Forks, serving students from preschool through 12th grade across multiple campuses. The school offers a comprehensive Catholic education with strong academic foundations, including advanced placement courses, STEM programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. With modern facilities, dedicated faculty, and a focus on character development, Holy Family provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes both academic excellence and spiritual growth. The school boasts high college acceptance rates and strong community involvement.
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Fargo Shanley High School
Fargo Catholic Schools Network
Fargo Shanley High School, while located in Fargo, serves as a regional Catholic high school drawing students from Grand Forks and surrounding areas. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive athletic programs, and outstanding fine arts opportunities. Shanley maintains a strong tradition of academic excellence with modern facilities, experienced faculty, and a supportive faith community. The school's commitment to developing well-rounded students through academic, spiritual, and extracurricular programs makes it a top choice for families throughout eastern North Dakota.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Grand Forks, North Dakota
What are the primary private school options available for families in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and what are their core educational philosophies?
In Grand Forks, ND, the primary private school options are Holy Family Catholic Schools (a PreK-12 system), Oak Grove Lutheran School (a PreK-12 school located in Fargo but serving the region, including many Grand Forks families), and, for high school, Fargo Shanley High School (also in Fargo). Holy Family provides a faith-based, Catholic education integrated throughout its curriculum. Oak Grove offers a Christian, Lutheran education with a strong college-preparatory focus. While not in Grand Forks proper, both Oak Grove and Shanley are common choices for families seeking specific religious affiliations or academic programs not available locally. The availability within Grand Forks city limits is primarily through the Holy Family system, making early research and potential commuting considerations important for parents.
How does tuition for private schools in the Grand Forks, ND, area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition in the Grand Forks area varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Holy Family Catholic Schools' tuition ranges from approximately $4,500 for parishioners to over $7,000 for non-parishioners at the high school level, with lower rates for elementary grades. Oak Grove Lutheran School's tuition is typically higher, often exceeding $10,000, reflecting its comprehensive residential and day programs. North Dakota offers specific financial aid options, most notably the K-12 Education Tax Credit, which allows individuals and corporations to receive a state tax credit for contributions to nonprofit scholarship organizations, which in turn provide need-based scholarships to private school students. Additionally, schools like Holy Family have dedicated parish subsidy and tuition assistance programs. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific tuition schedules and aid application processes.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Grand Forks region offer that distinguish them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Grand Forks region offer specialized programs that cater to diverse interests. Holy Family Catholic Schools integrate STEM initiatives with faith-based learning and offer strong fine arts programs. A key differentiator is their religious education and sacramental preparation. Oak Grove Lutheran School, while in Fargo, is known for its distinctive global studies emphasis, robust music and theater departments, and competitive athletic programs that draw regional talent. Fargo Shanley High School boasts a renowned Advanced Placement program and exceptional athletics, particularly in football and basketball. These schools often have smaller class sizes, which can allow for more individualized attention and unique electives not feasible in larger public school districts like Grand Forks Public Schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Grand Forks, ND, and are there waitlists for popular grades?
The enrollment process for Grand Forks-area private schools typically begins in the winter for the following fall semester. Holy Family Catholic Schools often opens registration for current families in January and for new families in February. Oak Grove and Shanley have similar timelines. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an entrance assessment or family interview. For popular entry points like Kindergarten, Pre-K, and 9th grade, waitlists can form, especially at Holy Family's elementary campuses and for Oak Grove's lower grades. It is highly advisable for parents to attend open houses (often held in fall and winter) and initiate contact with the admissions office well before the stated deadlines to secure a spot.
For a family living in Grand Forks, what are the practical considerations of choosing a local private school like Holy Family versus a Fargo-based school like Oak Grove or Shanley?
Choosing between a Grand Forks-based school and a Fargo-based school involves several practical considerations. Opting for Holy Family Catholic Schools means a shorter, local commute and greater integration with the Grand Forks community and parish life. Choosing Oak Grove Lutheran or Fargo Shanley High School involves a significant daily commute of about 75-90 minutes each way to Fargo, which impacts family schedules, extracurricular participation, and transportation costs. Many families carpool, or for Oak Grove, consider the 5-day boarding option. This decision often hinges on the specific religious affiliation desired (Lutheran vs. Catholic), the weight given to particular academic or athletic reputations, and the family's willingness to manage the logistical challenges of a regional school choice. Visiting all campuses is essential to evaluate the environment and commute firsthand.
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