The Best Private Schools in Barton, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Barton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Steubenville
St. Mary Catholic School is a highly-regarded private institution serving the Barton and greater Marietta area. Founded in 1959, this parochial school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning and academic excellence. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, small class sizes, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students. The campus includes updated facilities with technology integration throughout all grade levels.
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Parkersburg Catholic Elementary and High School
Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
Serving students from both West Virginia and Ohio, including the Barton area, Parkersburg Catholic provides a comprehensive PreK-12 education with a strong college preparatory focus. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate and offers Advanced Placement courses, extensive athletic programs, and robust extracurricular activities. Facilities include modern science labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic facilities. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, and parents consistently highlight the strong community atmosphere, academic rigor, and values-based education.
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St. John Central Academy
Independent Catholic School
St. John Central Academy serves students from throughout the Ohio Valley region, including Barton, with a classical education approach that emphasizes critical thinking and character development. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with advanced technology integration, comprehensive fine arts programs, and competitive athletic teams. Recent facility upgrades include state-of-the-art science laboratories and a renovated library media center. Parent reviews frequently mention the dedicated faculty, strong academic outcomes, and the school's commitment to developing both intellectual and moral virtues in students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Barton, Ohio
What are the private school options available specifically for families living in Barton, Ohio?
Barton, Ohio, is served by a small number of private, faith-based institutions. The primary options include St. Mary Catholic School (typically Pre-K through 8th grade), and nearby options like Parkersburg Catholic Elementary and High School and St. John Central Academy, which are located across the Ohio River in West Virginia but serve many Ohio families. Due to Barton's size and rural location within Belmont County, most private schooling requires consideration of schools in neighboring towns or states. There are no large, independent secular private schools within Barton itself, making Catholic education the predominant private model locally.
How does tuition at private schools serving Barton, OH, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for private schools serving the Barton area, such as St. Mary Catholic School, is generally below the average for major Ohio metropolitan private schools, often ranging from $4,000 to $7,000 annually for elementary grades. Ohio offers specific financial aid programs that Barton families can utilize, most notably the EdChoice Scholarship, which provides state-funded vouchers based on income or if the student's assigned public school is underperforming. Additionally, many diocesan schools offer parish subsidies for active members and need-based scholarships. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific tuition rates and aid application processes.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Barton area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools serving Barton emphasize small class sizes and faith-based character education. St. Mary Catholic School integrates Catholic teachings across its curriculum. A notable differentiator for families considering schools like Parkersburg Catholic High School is the ability to offer a comprehensive college-prep curriculum and specific extracurriculars (e.g., theology, structured service hours) that may be more limited in smaller rural public districts. These schools often have a strong sense of community and tradition. However, they may have fewer specialized resources (like extensive AP course catalogs or large-scale sports facilities) compared to larger public high schools in Belmont County.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for a private school like St. Mary Catholic School in Barton?
The enrollment process for St. Mary Catholic School typically begins in the winter or early spring for the following academic year. Parents should contact the school office directly for an application packet. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing birth and baptismal certificates (if applicable), recent report cards, and possibly a registration fee. Many schools also require a family interview or student assessment. Deadlines can be flexible in smaller communities, but applying by March or April is advisable to secure a spot, especially for limited seats in early grades. Open houses or shadow days are less formal but highly recommended to experience the school environment.
For Barton residents, what are the key considerations when deciding between local public schools (like the Switzerland of Ohio Local School District) and available private options?
Key considerations for Barton families include: **1. Location & Transportation:** Public schools are tuition-free and provide busing. Private options may require personal transportation to Barton or across state lines. **2. Educational Approach:** Public schools follow Ohio state standards; private schools offer a faith-based curriculum and often more traditional discipline. **3. Cost:** Public schools have no tuition. Private schools require tuition but may be offset by Ohio EdChoice scholarships. **4. Community & Size:** Barton's public schools are part of a larger rural district, while private schools like St. Mary offer a tight-knit, smaller community environment. **5. Academic Continuity:** Consider if you prefer a K-8 private pathway before transitioning to a public high school (like River High School) or seeking a private high school option outside the immediate area.