The Best Private Schools in Harrod, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Harrod. 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
Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo
Lima Central Catholic High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Harrod area and greater Lima region. Founded in 1952, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 14 Advanced Placement courses and comprehensive STEM education. The campus features modern facilities including science laboratories, technology centers, and athletic complexes. Students benefit from small class sizes averaging 16 students, with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with strong performing arts programs and competitive athletic teams. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to the school's commitment to individual student success and strong community values.
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St. Charles Borromeo School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo
St. Charles Borromeo School provides exceptional private education for students from preschool through 8th grade, serving families in Harrod and the surrounding Lima area. Established in 1958, the school combines strong Catholic values with comprehensive academic preparation. The curriculum features advanced technology integration with 1:1 iPad program, specialized art and music instruction, and competitive sports programs. The school maintains small class sizes and offers individualized learning plans. Facilities include modern classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, library, and gymnasium. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, dedicated faculty, and strong sense of community that prepares students for success in high school and beyond.
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Liberty Benton High School
Liberty-Benton Local School District
Liberty Benton High School, located approximately 20 miles from Harrod, is consistently ranked among the top schools in Northwest Ohio. Founded in 1966, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with 16 Advanced Placement courses and robust career-technical programs. The STEM Academy provides specialized pathways in engineering, biomedical sciences, and computer programming. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. With a graduation rate of 98% and strong college acceptance records, the school maintains excellent academic standards. Parent reviews highlight the exceptional teacher quality, strong community support, and outstanding extracurricular opportunities across academics, arts, and athletics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Harrod, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Harrod, Ohio, and are they located directly in Harrod or in surrounding communities?
Harrod, Ohio, is a small village, so most private school options are located in nearby cities within Allen and Hancock Counties. The top schools often considered by Harrod families include Lima Central Catholic High School (in Lima, about 15 miles north), St. Charles Borromeo School (a K-8 school in Lima), and Liberty Benton High School (in Findlay, approximately 20 miles east). There are no major private school campuses within Harrod's village limits itself, so transportation is a key consideration for parents. Many families also explore Catholic elementary schools in Findlay or other faith-based options in the broader region.
How does Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program affect tuition costs for private schools accessible from Harrod, Ohio?
Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program can significantly reduce tuition costs for eligible Harrod families. This state-funded voucher program provides scholarships for students to attend participating private schools based on either the performance rating of their assigned public school (EdChoice Expansion) or household income (EdChoice Traditional). Schools like Lima Central Catholic and St. Charles Borromeo typically participate. Eligibility is determined by state guidelines, and income thresholds apply. It's crucial for Harrod parents to apply for EdChoice through the chosen private school's financial aid office early, as funding is limited and the process involves specific state-mandated deadlines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Harrod, Ohio, area that leverage local community resources?
Private schools serving the Harrod area often integrate programs that connect students to regional industries and culture. For instance, Lima Central Catholic High School offers strong STEM pathways and partnerships with local businesses and hospitals in Lima, reflecting the area's healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Liberty Benton High School, known for its academic rigor, offers extensive agricultural science and FFA programs that align with Northwest Ohio's farming heritage. St. Charles Borromeo emphasizes faith-based service learning, with projects often tied to local community needs in Allen County. These schools provide a blend of college-prep academics with a distinct, community-rooted identity.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Lima Central Catholic that serve Harrod, Ohio, students, and are there considerations for transfer students?
Enrollment timelines for private schools in the Lima/Findlay region generally begin in the winter for the following academic year. For example, Lima Central Catholic High School typically opens applications for incoming freshmen in January, with placement tests and shadow day opportunities scheduled shortly after. For families in Harrod considering a transfer mid-year or at other grade levels, it's essential to contact the school's admissions office directly, as space is subject to availability. Most schools require transcripts, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and an interview. Given Harrod's location, early inquiry about transportation options or carpool networks with other local families is advisable.
For a family in Harrod, Ohio, what are the key factors when comparing the local public school district (Allen East Local Schools) to private school options in Lima or Findlay?
The key comparison factors for Harrod families include educational approach, class size, cost, and commute. Allen East Local Schools, the assigned public district, offers a comprehensive K-12 education with no tuition and proximity to home. In contrast, private options like Lima Central Catholic or Liberty Benton typically offer smaller class sizes, religious education (if faith-based), and specialized college-prep curricula. The decision often hinges on the value placed on these specific offerings versus the convenience and cost-savings of the public system. Additionally, the daily commute to Lima or Findlay (20-30 minutes) is a significant logistical and financial factor for Harrod parents, impacting extracurricular participation and family schedules.