The Best Private Schools in Magnolia, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Magnolia. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Thomas Aquinas School
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
St. Thomas Aquinas is a highly-regarded Catholic school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Located just 6 miles from Magnolia, the school offers a comprehensive academic program rooted in Catholic values with strong emphasis on faith formation, academic excellence, and character development. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a robust extracurricular program including sports, music, and art. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, strong community atmosphere, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students.
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Central Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
Central Catholic High School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Stark County and surrounding areas including Magnolia. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 17 Advanced Placement courses, a comprehensive STEM academy, and extensive fine arts programs. With a 100% college acceptance rate, Central Catholic provides exceptional college counseling and preparation. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, competitive athletic programs, and a strong emphasis on faith-based education and service learning. Parents consistently rate the school highly for academic excellence and character development.
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Dalton Local Schools (Private Education Options)
Dalton Local School District
While primarily a public district, Dalton Local Schools serves the broader region including Magnolia and offers exceptional educational programs that compete with private institutions. The district is known for its high academic standards, excellent teacher-to-student ratios, and comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. Dalton consistently receives excellent state report card ratings and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including championship athletic programs, performing arts, and STEM initiatives. The community support and parent involvement are consistently highlighted in reviews.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Magnolia, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in or near Magnolia, Ohio?
Magnolia, Ohio, is served by a small but distinct set of private institutions, primarily with a Catholic affiliation. The notable options include St. Thomas Aquinas School (K-8), and Central Catholic High School in nearby Canton, which serves as the main private high school for the region. While Dalton Local Schools is a public district, some families explore private tutoring or specialized programs within the area as supplementary options. For broader choices, families often look at private schools in the greater Stark County area, including Canton and Massillon.
How does tuition for private schools in the Magnolia, Ohio, area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition varies by grade level and school. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Thomas Aquinas (elementary/middle) typically has tuition ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 per student, with parishioner discounts. Central Catholic High School's tuition is higher, generally between $10,000 and $12,000 annually. Ohio offers specific financial aid opportunities that Magnolia-area families can utilize, most notably the EdChoice Scholarship Program, which provides state-funded vouchers based on income or residency in a designated public school district. Additionally, many schools offer parish subsidies, multi-child discounts, and need-based financial aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Magnolia, Ohio, region offer?
Private schools in the Magnolia area emphasize a values-based education with structured academic programs. St. Thomas Aquinas integrates Catholic teachings across its curriculum and may offer specialized religion classes and sacramental preparation. Central Catholic High School provides a broader range of college-prep Advanced Placement (AP) courses, robust STEM programs, and competitive athletics within the Ohio High School Athletic Association. Given the schools' religious foundations, service-learning projects and mission trips are common distinctive components not always emphasized in local public schools.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools like St. Thomas Aquinas in Magnolia, Ohio?
The enrollment process for Magnolia-area private schools usually begins in the winter for the following fall. For St. Thomas Aquinas, open houses are typically held in January-February, with application deadlines in early spring. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, baptismal certificate (for Catholic schools), and often a family interview. Priority is frequently given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of supporting churches. It's crucial to contact the school directly, as some grades may have waiting lists due to small class sizes.
For families in Magnolia, what are the key considerations when comparing local public schools (like Dalton Local) to private school options?
The key considerations include educational philosophy, cost, and community. Dalton Local Schools offer a tuition-free public education with a specific local community focus. In contrast, private schools like St. Thomas Aquinas and Central Catholic offer smaller class sizes, a religious education framework, and often a more traditional disciplinary approach. Transportation is another factor; while Dalton provides busing, private school families in Magnolia are usually responsible for their own transportation. Academically, parents should compare standardized test scores, college acceptance rates (for high school), and the availability of specialized programs that match their child's needs.