The Best Private Schools in Lancaster, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lancaster. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Columbus Academy
Independent
Columbus Academy is a highly-regarded coeducational independent day school serving students from Lancaster and throughout central Ohio. The school offers a rigorous academic program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12, with particularly strong college preparatory outcomes. Facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, extensive athletic complexes, and dedicated arts spaces. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and global citizenship. With small student-teacher ratios and extensive extracurricular offerings, Columbus Academy consistently ranks among Ohio's top private schools and maintains exceptional college matriculation records.
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Wellington School
Independent
The Wellington School is an independent college preparatory school serving students from Lancaster and the greater Columbus metropolitan area. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside advanced placement options, providing students with multiple pathways to academic excellence. Wellington emphasizes project-based learning, innovation, and global perspectives across all grade levels. The campus features modern academic facilities, extensive arts spaces, and comprehensive athletic amenities. With a focus on developing well-rounded individuals, the school offers robust arts programs, competitive athletics, and numerous student leadership opportunities, consistently achieving strong college acceptance results.
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Fisher Catholic High School
Diocese of Columbus
Fisher Catholic High School is a private, Roman Catholic high school serving Lancaster and surrounding communities. As part of the Diocese of Columbus, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory education with small class sizes and individualized attention. The curriculum emphasizes academic excellence while integrating Catholic values and traditions. Students have access to advanced placement courses, competitive athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular activities including theater, music, and community service opportunities. The school maintains strong college acceptance rates and provides robust guidance counseling for post-secondary planning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lancaster, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Lancaster, Ohio?
Families in Lancaster, Ohio have several notable private school options, though many are located in nearby areas. Within Lancaster itself, Fisher Catholic High School (grades 9-12) is a prominent local choice. For younger grades or families willing to commute, highly-regarded schools in the greater Columbus area, such as Columbus Academy in Gahanna (Pre-K through 12) and Wellington School in Upper Arlington (Pre-K through 12), are common considerations. The availability of K-8 private options directly in Lancaster is more limited, leading many families to also consider parochial elementary schools or the commute to Columbus suburbs. It's important to research each school's transportation policies, as bus service from Lancaster may not be provided.
How does tuition for private schools in and around Lancaster, Ohio compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school and grade level. Fisher Catholic High School in Lancaster typically has a lower tuition rate, often ranging between $8,000-$10,000 annually, reflecting its parochial affiliation. In contrast, independent schools like Columbus Academy and Wellington School have tuitions that can exceed $25,000-$30,000 per year. A critical financial consideration specific to Ohio is the **EdChoice Scholarship Program**. This state program provides vouchers based on either household income or the performance rating of your assigned public school building, which can significantly offset private school costs. Eligibility and award amounts depend on state guidelines, and applying for EdChoice is a separate process from school admission.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Lancaster students offer?
Private schools accessible to Lancaster families often provide specialized programs not always available in smaller public districts. Fisher Catholic emphasizes a college-preparatory curriculum with a Catholic worldview and often has strong community service integration. Columbus Academy is known for its rigorous academics, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. Wellington School highlights its innovation lab, global studies curriculum, and project-based learning. A key advantage for Lancaster students considering Columbus-area schools is access to broader extracurricular catalogs, including niche sports, extensive AP/advanced course offerings, and partnerships with Columbus cultural and scientific institutions, which can enrich the educational experience beyond what is locally available.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Lancaster, Ohio area?
Timelines are crucial and require early planning, especially for competitive Columbus schools. For schools like Columbus Academy and Wellington School, the application process often begins a full year in advance, with open houses in the fall, application deadlines in January or February, and decisions communicated by March. Fisher Catholic High School may have a more flexible timeline but still encourages early application. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student visit or interview. For all schools, contacting the admissions office 12-18 months before desired enrollment is strongly advised. Additionally, if planning to use an Ohio EdChoice Scholarship, you must apply for that separately through the state after receiving a school acceptance.
For a Lancaster resident, what are the practical considerations when choosing between a local option like Fisher Catholic and commuting to a Columbus-area private school?
This decision hinges on balancing community, cost, and commute. Fisher Catholic offers the benefit of a local community, shorter travel times, and lower tuition. It provides a traditional, faith-based education deeply integrated into the Lancaster area. Commuting to a Columbus school (a 30-45 minute drive each way) provides access to greater resources, more diverse student populations, and different educational philosophies, but at a higher financial and time cost. Parents must factor in daily transportation logistics, fuel expenses, and the impact of commute time on family life and the student's ability to participate in after-school activities. Many families find value in both paths, making it essential to visit each campus and assess which environment best fits their child's needs and the family's overall priorities.