The Best Private Schools in Marion, North Dakota
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Marion. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Shanley High School
Catholic Schools of Fargo
Shanley High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students throughout the Fargo region, including Marion families. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. Shanley features state-of-the-art facilities including modern classrooms, science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. The school is known for its strong community values, competitive sports programs, and commitment to developing well-rounded students through academic excellence and faith-based education.
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Oak Grove Lutheran School
Independent Lutheran
Oak Grove Lutheran School is a premier private Christian school serving the greater Fargo-Moorhead area, including Marion. The school offers comprehensive education from grades 6-12 with a strong college preparatory focus. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, the school features advanced STEM programs, competitive athletics, and extensive arts offerings. The campus includes modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Oak Grove maintains high academic standards while fostering spiritual growth and character development.
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Sacred Heart Elementary School
Catholic Schools of Fargo
Sacred Heart Elementary School provides exceptional private Catholic education for students in preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout Cass County including Marion. The school offers a well-rounded curriculum with strong emphasis on core academics, faith formation, and character development. Features include modern classroom technology, dedicated STEM labs, music and art programs, and a supportive learning environment. Sacred Heart maintains small class sizes with individualized attention and prepares students for successful transition to high school through its comprehensive middle school program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Marion, North Dakota
What are the private school options for families living in Marion, North Dakota, and are there transportation services available?
Families in Marion, ND, primarily look to nearby Fargo for private school options, as Marion itself is a small community. The top schools include Oak Grove Lutheran School (PreK-12), Shanley High School (9-12), and Sacred Heart Elementary School (K-8), all located in Fargo, approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Marion. Most families provide their own transportation, but some schools, particularly Oak Grove, may offer limited bus routes that serve surrounding communities. It's essential to contact each school directly to inquire about current transportation options from the Marion area, as routes can change annually based on enrollment.
How does North Dakota's Choice in Education Tuition Reimbursement program affect tuition costs for Marion residents attending private schools?
North Dakota's unique Choice in Education program provides tuition reimbursement to families who choose a nonpublic school. For the 2024-2025 school year, the reimbursement is approximately $1,800 per student. This state-funded assistance significantly offsets tuition costs for Marion families attending schools like Shanley, Oak Grove, or Sacred Heart. However, tuition varies by school and grade level, often ranging from $5,000 to $10,000+ annually, so families should budget for the remaining balance. Applications for the reimbursement are handled through the chosen private school after enrollment.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Marion, ND, that differ from local public schools?
The private schools serving Marion offer distinct programs. Shanley High School is known for its strong college-prep curriculum and competitive athletics. Oak Grove Lutheran provides a comprehensive PreK-12 program with notable arts and international baccalaureate (IB) course options. Sacred Heart Elementary offers a faith-based education with a focus on early childhood development. A key differentiator from many smaller public districts is the breadth of advanced placement (AP), IB, and specialized fine arts programs available due to the larger student bodies and resources of these Fargo-based institutions.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Oak Grove, Shanley, and Sacred Heart for a family moving to Marion?
Enrollment timelines for these sought-after Fargo schools are critical. Most begin accepting applications for the following academic year in January or February, with priority deadlines often in early spring. For example, Shanley typically hosts an open house in the fall. Because these schools draw from the entire Fargo-Moorhead metro area, including communities like Marion, spaces can fill quickly, especially in popular entry grades (Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th). It is highly recommended that Marion families initiate contact with admissions offices by the fall prior to the desired enrollment year, complete applications early, and schedule required shadow days or interviews promptly.
Considering Marion's rural setting, what are the key community and environmental benefits of choosing a private school in nearby Fargo?
For Marion families, choosing a private school in Fargo offers a blend of small-community values and access to larger-city resources. Students benefit from a close-knit, often faith-based school community while having opportunities in competitive academics, arts, and sports that rival larger cities. The commute allows families to maintain their rural lifestyle while their children engage in a diverse peer group and extensive facilities. Furthermore, these schools have strong alumni networks throughout North Dakota, providing long-term connections. The environment fosters a high level of parent involvement and personalized attention, which resonates with families seeking an alternative to the consolidated regional public school systems.
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