The Best Private Schools in Belpre, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Belpre. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School
Parkersburg Catholic Schools
Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School is part of the comprehensive Parkersburg Catholic Schools system serving the Mid-Ohio Valley region. Located just across the river from Belpre in Parkersburg, West Virginia, this well-established Catholic school offers a rigorous academic program rooted in faith-based education. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities. The school has strong parent satisfaction ratings and serves students from both Ohio and West Virginia communities.
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St. Margaret Mary School
Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
St. Margaret Mary School is a highly-regarded Catholic elementary school serving the Parkersburg-Belpre metropolitan area. With over six decades of educational excellence, the school provides a strong academic foundation while emphasizing character development and faith formation. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, comprehensive language arts, science programs, and extensive arts education. The school features updated facilities, technology-integrated classrooms, and a supportive community environment. Parent reviews consistently praise the dedicated teachers, safe environment, and strong academic preparation for high school.
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St. Mary Catholic School
Diocese of Steubenville
St. Mary Catholic School in Marietta, Ohio serves students from throughout Washington County and surrounding areas, including Belpre. This established Catholic school offers comprehensive education from preschool through eighth grade with a strong college preparatory focus. The school features technology-integrated classrooms, modern facilities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports, music, and academic clubs. With small class sizes and individualized attention, St. Mary's provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual development, and community service. The school has strong parent satisfaction ratings and maintains active partnerships with local high schools for smooth transitions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Belpre, Ohio
What are the private school options for families living in Belpre, Ohio, and are there any schools actually located within the city?
For families in Belpre, Ohio, there are no private K-12 schools physically located within the city limits. The primary private school options are Catholic schools in the neighboring city of Parkersburg, West Virginia, just across the Ohio River. The most commonly considered schools include Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School, St. Margaret Mary School, and St. Mary Catholic School. This means Belpre families seeking private education typically commute to Parkersburg, which is a short drive and a common practice for the area. It's important to check each school's specific enrollment policies regarding out-of-state students from Ohio.
How does tuition for private schools serving Belpre, OH, compare, and are there Ohio-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition for the Catholic schools in Parkersburg that serve Belpre families typically ranges from approximately $4,000 to $6,500 per year for parishioners, with slightly higher rates for non-parishioners. As an Ohio resident, you cannot use the Ohio EdChoice Scholarship (voucher) program at these West Virginia schools. However, Ohio does offer the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship and the Autism Scholarship, which could be portable to approved private providers. For general financial aid, you must rely on the individual school's assistance programs and diocesan scholarships. Some Belpre families also utilize Ohio's 529 plan savings for K-12 private school tuition.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the Parkersburg-area private schools offer that attract families from Belpre, OH?
The Catholic schools serving the Belpre community emphasize a faith-based education with strong core academics. Common distinguishing programs include dedicated STEM initiatives, Spanish language instruction starting in elementary grades, and robust music and art programs. Many of these schools also participate in West Virginia Academic Showdowns and science fairs. A significant draw for Belpre parents is the structured environment and smaller class sizes, which often contrast with larger public school districts. Additionally, these schools frequently offer community service programs that align with their religious mission, fostering a close-knit student community.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for a Belpre, OH, family applying to a private school in Parkersburg, WV?
The enrollment process for Belpre residents typically begins in January or February for the following fall semester, with priority often given to existing families and parish members. The general steps include: 1) Contacting the school office to express interest and schedule a tour; 2) Submitting an application (often available online) along with records from the child's current school; 3) Providing baptismal certificates (for Catholic schools) and birth certificates; 4) Possibly undergoing an academic assessment for grade placement. It's crucial to apply early, as spaces can be limited. Belpre families should also inquire about transportation logistics, as bus service from Ohio may not be provided.
How do the private school options for Belpre compare to the local public school district, Belpre City Schools?
The choice between Belpre City Schools and the private Catholic schools in Parkersburg involves several key considerations. Belpre City Schools offer the convenience of a local, tuition-free education with comprehensive extracurriculars and Ohio-based state testing. The private options offer smaller class sizes, a consistent faith-based curriculum, and a different disciplinary environment. Academically, both sectors have strengths; parents should examine standardized test scores and college acceptance rates. For some families, the decision hinges on the desire for religious education versus the community connection of a local public school. It's highly recommended to tour both a Belpre public school and a Parkersburg private school to feel the difference in culture and environment firsthand.
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