The Best Private Schools in Johnstown, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Johnstown. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Wellington School
Independent
The Wellington School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving the greater Columbus metropolitan area, including Johnstown families. Founded in 1982, Wellington offers a comprehensive educational experience from junior kindergarten through 12th grade. The school is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, small class sizes with a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and exceptional college placement record. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes global citizenship, character development, and innovative teaching methods while maintaining strong community values.
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Columbus Academy
Independent
Columbus Academy is one of central Ohio's premier independent college preparatory schools, drawing students from Johnstown and surrounding communities. Established in 1911, the school serves students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 with a commitment to academic excellence, character development, and personal growth. The 231-acre campus features outstanding facilities including modern classrooms, science and technology centers, arts studios, and extensive athletic complexes. The school offers a challenging curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletic programs, and rich opportunities in the arts. Columbus Academy maintains a strong tradition of community service and leadership development.
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St. Francis de Sales School
Catholic Diocese of Columbus
St. Francis de Sales School provides a faith-based education option for families in the Johnstown area, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Founded in 1957, this Catholic school emphasizes academic excellence within a values-based environment. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including STEM education, language arts, and religious studies, complemented by strong athletic programs and fine arts opportunities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, St. Francis de Sales focuses on developing the whole child - academically, spiritually, and socially. The school community is known for its family atmosphere and strong parent involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Johnstown, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Johnstown, Ohio, and are they located within the town itself?
While Johnstown, Ohio, is a smaller community, it is within reasonable commuting distance of several highly-regarded private schools in the broader Central Ohio region. The schools often considered by Johnstown families include The Wellington School and Columbus Academy in Columbus, and St. Francis de Sales School in Newark. It's important to note that there are no major private school campuses physically located within the village limits of Johnstown itself. Therefore, parents should factor in daily transportation, which can be a 20-45 minute drive depending on the specific school and location in Johnstown. Many families form carpools to manage the commute.
How does Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program affect tuition costs for private schools accessible from Johnstown?
Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of private education for eligible Johnstown families. This state-funded program provides vouchers (scholarships) that can be applied to tuition at participating private schools, like St. Francis de Sales School. Eligibility is primarily based on the assigned public school building's performance or family income. Since Johnstown is part of the Northridge Local School District, families should check the current EdChoice "Performance-Based" list to see if their specific home school building qualifies them. "Income-Based" EdChoice expands eligibility further. Both The Wellington School and Columbus Academy also accept these scholarships, making these prestigious options more financially accessible.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Johnstown offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Johnstown area often provide specialized programs that may be less available in the public district. For example, Columbus Academy offers a renowned global studies program and extensive language options starting in the lower school. The Wellington School emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and has a strong focus on innovation and design thinking. St. Francis de Sales provides a structured, faith-based education integrated with technology. Commonly, these schools also offer more competitive athletics, extensive arts programs (like orchestra or theater), and smaller class sizes for personalized attention—features that can be appealing complements to Johnstown's community-focused, but more limited, public school offerings.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools like Columbus Academy or The Wellington School for a family from Johnstown?
The enrollment process for top-tier private schools near Johnstown is highly structured and begins well over a year in advance. For schools like Columbus Academy and The Wellington School, the application cycle for the following academic year typically opens in August or September, with application deadlines between January and February. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a required entrance assessment (like the ISEE). Many schools also require family and student interviews. It is crucial for Johnstown parents to plan ahead, as spaces, particularly in specific entry grades, are limited. Attending open houses in the fall is highly recommended to assess the commute and school culture firsthand.
For a family living in Johnstown, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local Northridge public schools and a private school commute?
The decision hinges on several Johnstown-specific factors. First, evaluate the daily commitment: a commute to a Columbus or Newark private school adds significant time to your child's day and requires a reliable transportation plan. Financially, you must weigh the cost of tuition (even with scholarships) against the no-tuition public option, considering also potential savings on extracurriculars that may be included privately. Academically, consider if your child needs the specialized programs or smaller environment a private school offers versus the community-centered, potentially more diverse extracurriculars (like agriculture or specific sports) at Northridge. Finally, consider values: a faith-based environment at St. Francis de Sales or a particular educational philosophy at the independent schools may align more closely with your family's goals than the public school curriculum.