The Best Private Schools in Cardington, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cardington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus
St. Mary School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school located in nearby Marion, serving families throughout Morrow County including Cardington. The school offers comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning combined with rigorous academics. Features include modern classrooms, dedicated faculty with an average of 15+ years teaching experience, competitive sports programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. The school maintains small class sizes for personalized attention and has consistently high academic achievement scores.
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The Wellington School
Independent School
The Wellington School is a premier independent day school serving students from Cardington and throughout central Ohio. Offering education from junior kindergarten through 12th grade, Wellington features both International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs. The campus includes extensive facilities: science and innovation labs, performing arts centers, athletic complexes, and technology-rich classrooms. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, the school provides individualized attention and has a track record of graduates attending top universities nationwide. The school offers transportation options for students from surrounding areas including Morrow County.
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Delaware Christian School
Independent Christian School
Delaware Christian School serves students from Cardington and surrounding communities with a comprehensive Christian education from preschool through 12th grade. The school is known for its strong college preparatory curriculum, with 100% of graduates typically attending college. Features include state-of-the-art science labs, competitive athletic programs, extensive fine arts offerings, and a supportive community environment. The school maintains accreditation and has a reputation for academic excellence combined with character development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cardington, Ohio
What are the realistic private school options for a family living in Cardington, Ohio, given that the top-named schools are not actually in Cardington?
While Cardington itself is a small village with limited on-site private institutions, families commonly look to surrounding communities. The schools often considered include St. Mary School in Delaware (approx. 30 min drive), Delaware Christian School in Delaware (approx. 30 min drive), and The Wellington School in Columbus (approx. 45-50 min drive). This means commuting is a significant factor for Cardington residents. Some families also explore private options in Marion or Mount Gilead. It's important to contact these schools directly to confirm they are accepting students from outside their immediate districts and to understand any transportation services or carpools available.
How does Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program affect tuition costs for Cardington families considering private schools?
Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program can significantly reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs for eligible families in Cardington. This state-funded voucher program is income-based and also available to students assigned to specific public school buildings designated for performance-based scholarships. Families at St. Mary School or Delaware Christian School often utilize these scholarships. The application is processed through your chosen private school after acceptance. It's crucial to apply early, as funds are limited. For the 2024-25 school year, the EdChoice Expansion (income-based) scholarship can cover up to the school's tuition or a set amount (e.g., $6,165 for K-8), whichever is less. Consulting with the financial aid office of your target school is the best first step.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Cardington offer that local public schools may not?
The private schools serving Cardington offer distinct programs. The Wellington School, a Columbus college-prep school, offers a globally-focused curriculum, extensive AP/IB options, and renowned arts/athletics. Delaware Christian School provides a biblically-integrated curriculum with a strong emphasis on agricultural science and hands-on learning, appealing to Cardington's rural community. St. Mary School offers a faith-based education with dedicated STEM initiatives and Spanish language instruction starting in elementary grades. In contrast to Cardington-Lincoln Local public schools, these private options often have smaller class sizes, specialized religious education, and different athletic/conference affiliations (like the Mid-Ohio Christian Athletic League for DCS).
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Delaware Christian or St. Mary School for a Cardington family?
The timeline is critical, as spaces fill quickly. For schools like Delaware Christian School and St. Mary School, the main enrollment period for the following academic year typically opens in January or February, with re-enrollment for current families first. Cardington families should begin attending open houses the prior fall (October-November). The process usually involves: 1) Submitting an application (often with a fee) by early spring, 2) Providing academic records and teacher recommendations from your current Cardington school, 3) A student assessment or shadow day, and 4) A family interview. Acceptance and financial aid/scholarship awards are often communicated by April. Waiting lists are common, so early action is strongly advised.
For a Cardington family, what are the key logistical and community factors to weigh when choosing a private school a significant drive away?
Beyond academics, Cardington families must consider daily logistics and community integration. A 30-50 minute commute each way impacts family schedules, extracurricular participation, and student fatigue. Investigate if the school offers late-study halls or activity buses. Community-wise, your child's social circle and peer networks will be centered outside Cardington, which can affect local friendships and participation in hometown activities. However, the trade-off can be a tight-knit school community aligned with your values. Many families form carpools with others from Morrow/Delaware counties. It's also wise to calculate annual fuel and vehicle maintenance costs against tuition savings from vouchers to understand the true financial picture.