The Best Private Schools in Mount Sterling, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Mount Sterling. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Columbus Academy
Independent College Preparatory School
Columbus Academy is a premier independent college preparatory school serving families throughout central Ohio, including Mount Sterling residents. As one of Ohio's most prestigious private schools, it offers an exceptional educational experience from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science research centers, performing arts theaters, and extensive athletic complexes. Academic programs include extensive AP course offerings, independent research opportunities, and renowned arts programs. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 and 100% college matriculation rate, the school consistently ranks among the top private schools in the Midwest. The 231-acre campus provides an ideal learning environment just 35 minutes from Mount Sterling.
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Madison Plains Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Madison Plains Christian Academy is a highly-regarded private Christian school located just 15 minutes from Mount Sterling. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, the academy offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on both academic excellence and character development. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, modern technology integration, and competitive athletic programs. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent college placement record. The campus includes well-equipped science labs, updated classrooms, and athletic facilities serving the broader Madison County area.
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Washington Elementary School (Private)
Diocese of Columbus Catholic Schools
Washington Elementary School, part of the St. Colman of Cloyne Catholic Parish, serves as the primary private education option for Fayette County and surrounding areas including Mount Sterling. This established Catholic school provides education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong foundation in faith-based learning and academic rigor. The school features updated technology integration, dedicated specialty teachers for art, music, and physical education, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Recent facility improvements include modernized classrooms and enhanced security systems. The school maintains strong partnerships with Bishop Ready High School in Columbus for continued Catholic education. Parents appreciate the family-oriented environment, individualized attention, and strong moral foundation provided to students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Mount Sterling, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Mount Sterling, Ohio?
Mount Sterling itself has a limited number of private schools within its immediate city limits, with **Madison Plains Christian Academy** being a key local K-12 option. Due to this, many families in Mount Sterling also consider private schools in the greater Columbus metro area, which is about a 30-45 minute commute. Highly-regarded schools like **Columbus Academy** in Gahanna are common choices. It's important to note that "Washington Elementary School (Private)" is not a verified private school in Mount Sterling; Washington Elementary is part of the Madison-Plains Local School District. Therefore, exploring both the local Christian academy and expanded options in nearby Franklin County is a standard practice for Mount Sterling parents.
How does tuition for private schools serving Mount Sterling, Ohio, compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school. Local **Madison Plains Christian Academy** typically has a lower tuition rate, often ranging from $4,000 to $7,000 annually, reflecting its community-based model. In contrast, elite Columbus-area schools like Columbus Academy can exceed $25,000 per year. Ohio offers specific financial aid opportunities that Mount Sterling families can utilize, most notably the **EdChoice Scholarship Program**. This program provides state-funded vouchers for students assigned to low-performing public schools or based on household income, which can be applied to participating private schools. Additionally, many private schools offer their own need-based financial aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools accessible from Mount Sterling, Ohio, offer that differ from the local public schools?
Private schools in the region often provide specialized programs that may not be available in the rural Madison-Plains public district. **Madison Plains Christian Academy** integrates a faith-based curriculum and may offer smaller class sizes for personalized attention. The draw of Columbus-area schools includes robust offerings like advanced STEM labs, extensive world language programs starting in lower grades, competitive arts departments, and a wide array of interscholastic athletics. For Mount Sterling families, a key differentiator is often access to these comprehensive, resource-rich programs and college preparatory tracks that rival those in major metropolitan areas, albeit with a commute.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools in and around Mount Sterling, Ohio?
The process and timeline differ between the local academy and Columbus schools. For **Madison Plains Christian Academy**, the process may be more flexible, with rolling admissions, but it's wise to inquire by early spring (January-March) for the following fall. For sought-after Columbus academies, the process is highly structured and competitive. It usually begins with open houses in the fall (September-October), applications due between January and February, and required student assessments/interviews. Notification dates are often in March. Given the competitive nature of Columbus schools, Mount Sterling families are advised to start research and visits 12-18 months in advance.
For a family in Mount Sterling, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local Madison-Plains public district and a private school?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. The **Madison-Plains Local School District** offers the convenience of no commute, no tuition, and strong community ties. Choosing a private school, whether local or in Columbus, involves weighing the benefits of often smaller class sizes, specific religious education (if desired), and potentially more advanced academic resources against the costs of tuition and transportation. A major consideration for Mount Sterling is the **daily commute** to a Columbus private school, which can be 45+ minutes each way, impacting family logistics and student participation in after-school activities. Many families find the local Christian academy a middle-ground option, offering private education without the extensive commute.