The Best Private Schools in Cairo, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cairo. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lima Central Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Toledo
Lima Central Catholic High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the broader Lima area, including Cairo. With a 100% college acceptance rate, the school offers rigorous academic programs including Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and competitive athletic programs. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a strong focus on character development and community service. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty and supportive learning environment.
Programs:
Immaculate Conception School
Catholic Diocese of Toledo
Immaculate Conception School in nearby Celina serves students from Cairo and surrounding communities with a comprehensive K-8 education program. The school features small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong foundation in both academics and faith formation. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, science enrichment, and comprehensive language arts, along with music, art, and technology programs. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its nurturing environment, academic rigor, and dedicated faculty.
Programs:
St. Marys Memorial High School
St. Marys City Schools
St. Marys Memorial High School is a well-established private school serving the regional area including Cairo. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with multiple AP courses, robust career-technical programs, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. Known for its strong athletic tradition and academic excellence, the school maintains modern facilities and technology resources. Parent reviews highlight the school's committed teachers, safe environment, and strong community involvement.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cairo, Ohio
What are the private school options for families living in Cairo, Ohio, and are there schools within the village itself?
Cairo, Ohio, is a small village, and there are no private schools physically located within its boundaries. However, families in Cairo typically look to nearby communities for private education. The most prominent options include Lima Central Catholic High School (grades 9-12) in Lima, approximately 15 miles away, and Immaculate Conception School (PreK-8) in Celina, about 12 miles away. St. Marys Memorial High School is also in the region, though a bit farther. Most families in Cairo commute to these schools, and many have established carpool networks. It's important to consider the daily travel time as a key factor in your decision.
How does tuition at private schools near Cairo, OH, compare, and are there Ohio-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition for the private schools serving the Cairo area varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Lima Central Catholic High School tuition is approximately $8,000-$9,000, while elementary schools like Immaculate Conception are typically $4,000-$6,000. A significant Ohio-specific financial aid resource is the **EdChoice Scholarship Program**. This state program provides vouchers based on either household income or the performance rating of your assigned public school district (Allen East Local Schools for Cairo residents). Many families in Auglaize and Allen counties utilize this scholarship to make private school more affordable. Additionally, all the local Catholic schools offer parish subsidies and need-based aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Cairo, Ohio, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools in the region emphasize college-prep curricula within a values-based framework. Lima Central Catholic High School, for instance, offers a distinctive **Project Lead The Way (PLTW)** biomedical science program and a strong theology curriculum, which are not typically found in area public schools. Immaculate Conception School integrates faith into daily learning and often has smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. Furthermore, these schools frequently provide unique extracurriculars like statewide Catholic school athletic leagues (e.g., the Northwest Catholic Athletic League) and organized faith-based service projects that connect students to the wider West Central Ohio community.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Lima Central Catholic that serve Cairo families?
The enrollment process for schools like Lima Central Catholic (LCC) and Immaculate Conception typically begins in January or February for the following fall. For LCC, the process involves submitting an application, academic records, and often a placement test. As a Cairo resident, you would apply as an out-of-parish family. **Open Houses are usually held in the winter**, and it's highly recommended to attend and schedule a shadow day for your child. A critical step is applying for the Ohio EdChoice Scholarship by the state deadline (usually early April) to secure funding. Due to limited space, especially in the lower grades, early application is advised, even though these schools welcome students from non-Catholic families.
For a family in Cairo, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local public school (Allen East) and a private school in Lima or Celina?
The decision involves several Cairo-specific considerations. **Transportation** is primary: Allen East provides busing within Cairo, while attending a private school requires a daily 25-30 minute commute each way, which impacts family schedules and costs. **Community vs. Mission**: Allen East offers a strong local community and comprehensive programs. Private schools offer a specific religious or value-based mission and often a different peer network drawn from a wider region. **Cost**: Even with EdChoice scholarships, there may be out-of-pocket costs for tuition, fees, and activities not covered by the voucher. Ultimately, families must weigh the importance of a faith-based education, desired class size, and specialized programs against the convenience and cost-savings of the local public system.