The Best Private Schools in Larimore, North Dakota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Larimore. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Red River Valley Montessori School
Independent Montessori School
Red River Valley Montessori School is a highly-regarded independent school serving the greater Grand Forks region, including Larimore families. As an authentic Montessori program, it offers child-centered education with individualized learning plans. The school features mixed-age classrooms, hands-on Montessori materials, and focuses on developing independence and critical thinking. With small class sizes and AMI-trained teachers, the school maintains exceptional academic standards. Families from Larimore appreciate the nurturing environment and strong community feel, with many making the commute for this unique educational opportunity.
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Oak Grove Lutheran School
Independent Lutheran School
Oak Grove Lutheran School is a premier private institution serving students from across eastern North Dakota, including the Larimore area. This respected college preparatory school offers rigorous academics with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. The campus features modern science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. Oak Grove provides comprehensive programming including Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, vibrant arts programs, and spiritual development. While located in Fargo, the school attracts regional families seeking exceptional education and offers transportation options for out-of-town students.
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Holy Family Catholic Schools
Diocese of Fargo Catholic Schools
Holy Family Catholic Schools provides comprehensive Catholic education from preschool through high school, serving the Grand Forks region including Larimore families. The system includes multiple campuses with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, technology centers, and performing arts spaces. The curriculum emphasizes faith formation alongside rigorous academics, with strong college preparation and numerous extracurricular opportunities. Holy Family maintains small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a supportive community environment that attracts families from surrounding communities seeking quality private education with moral foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Larimore, North Dakota
What are the actual private school options available for families living in Larimore, North Dakota?
While Larimore itself is a smaller community, families have access to several well-regarded private schools within a reasonable commuting distance. The most prominent options include Red River Valley Montessori School in Grand Forks (approx. 25 miles east), Oak Grove Lutheran School in Fargo (approx. 80 miles south), and Holy Family Catholic Schools, also in Grand Forks. There are no private school campuses physically located within Larimore city limits, so transportation is a key consideration. Many families in the region form carpool networks for the commute to Grand Forks.
How does North Dakota's Tuition Assistance Grant Program affect private school costs for Larimore residents?
North Dakota's K-12 Tuition Assistance Grant is a significant financial consideration for Larimore families. This state-funded program provides need-based grants directly to eligible families who choose a non-public school. For the 2024-25 school year, the maximum grant is $1,800 per student. This can substantially offset the tuition at schools like Holy Family Catholic Schools or Red River Valley Montessori. Eligibility is based on household income, and applications are submitted through the chosen private school. This state-level support is a unique advantage for North Dakota parents exploring private education.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are accessible through private schools near Larimore, ND?
The private schools serving the Larimore area offer distinct specializations not typically found in smaller public districts. Red River Valley Montessori provides authentic Montessori education through 8th grade, emphasizing individualized, hands-on learning. Oak Grove Lutheran offers a robust college-prep curriculum with advanced STEM tracks and extensive fine arts. Holy Family Catholic Schools provide a faith-based education integrated with strong academics and character formation. For Larimore students, these schools offer access to specialized language programs, competitive athletics leagues, and arts facilities that rival those of much larger districts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Larimore, and are there considerations for rural applicants?
Enrollment timelines for schools like Holy Family Catholic or Red River Valley Montessori in Grand Forks often begin as early as January for the following fall, with priority given to siblings of current students and parish members (for faith-based schools). For Larimore families, it's crucial to initiate contact early, as some schools may have limited space for non-local applicants. The process usually includes a campus tour, application submission, student assessment or shadow day, and a family interview. Schools are generally familiar with applicants from surrounding rural communities and may discuss transportation logistics during the enrollment process.
How do the class sizes and community environments of private schools near Larimore compare to the local public school experience?
Larimore Public School offers a close-knit, community-based education with smaller overall class sizes typical of a rural district. In contrast, the private options in Grand Forks and Fargo, while still maintaining lower student-to-teacher ratios than large urban publics, often have slightly larger class cohorts, providing a different social dynamic. The private school communities are intentionally formed around specific educational philosophies (Montessori, Lutheran, Catholic), creating a distinct culture of shared values. For a Larimore family, the choice often hinges on whether they prioritize the ultra-local community of the hometown school or seek a specialized community defined by educational or faith-based mission, accepting the commute as part of that choice.
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