The Best Private Schools in New Weston, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in New Weston. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Dayton Christian Elementary School
Dayton Christian Schools
Dayton Christian Elementary School, part of the Dayton Christian Schools system, is a top-rated private school serving the broader region, including New Weston. It offers a Christ-centered education for elementary students, emphasizing academic rigor, spiritual growth, and character building. The campus features state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, athletic fields, and fine arts spaces. With a focus on college preparatory skills, the school integrates technology, hands-on learning, and diverse extracurriculars such as music, drama, and sports. High parent reviews highlight its dedicated staff, safe environment, and strong student outcomes.
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St. Mary's Catholic School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Cincinnati
St. Mary's Catholic School is a highly regarded private elementary school located in Greenville, approximately 10 miles from New Weston. It offers a faith-based education for grades Pre-K through 8, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and community service. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and modern facilities including technology labs and a library. Extracurricular activities include sports, music, and art programs, contributing to high parent satisfaction and a nurturing learning environment.
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St. Denis Catholic School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Cincinnati
St. Denis Catholic School in Versailles serves students from New Weston and surrounding areas, providing a comprehensive private education rooted in Catholic values. The school is known for its rigorous academics, supportive teachers, and well-maintained facilities, including classrooms, a gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Programs focus on holistic development with offerings in literacy, mathematics, science, and religious education. Parents praise the school's family-oriented atmosphere and strong community involvement, with extracurriculars like basketball, choir, and service projects.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in New Weston, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families in New Weston, Ohio, and what are their core educational models?
New Weston, Ohio, is served by a small number of private institutions, primarily faith-based schools. The notable options include St. Mary's Catholic School and St. Denis Catholic School, which offer a traditional Catholic education integrating religious values with a standard academic curriculum. For families seeking a Protestant Christian perspective, Dayton Christian Elementary School, while located a short drive away, is a common choice for New Weston residents. These schools provide a K-8 education, meaning families must plan for high school options in nearby communities like Greenville or Versailles. The intimate size of these schools is a hallmark, offering small class sizes and a close-knit community environment.
How does tuition at private schools in the New Weston, Ohio, area compare, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition for the private schools serving New Weston is generally modest compared to larger metropolitan areas, often ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 annually for elementary grades, with parishioner discounts typically available at the Catholic schools. A critical financial consideration specific to Ohio is the **EdChoice Scholarship Program**. This state-funded program provides vouchers for students attending designated public schools or based on family income to attend participating private schools. All the mentioned schools are likely EdChoice providers. Additionally, the **Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship** and the **Autism Scholarship Program** are important Ohio resources for eligible students. It's essential to contact each school's admissions office for the most current tuition rates and detailed guidance on applying for state aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the New Weston area offer that leverage the local community?
Private schools in the New Weston area often emphasize programs that reflect their values and the rural, agricultural character of Darke County. Common specializations include robust religious education and character development programs. Many integrate agricultural science or local history into their curricula, potentially through field trips to local farms or historical sites. Extracurriculars are typically community-focused, with strong emphasis on music programs, academic challenge teams, and sports that foster regional rivalries within small school leagues. Due to their size, offerings like advanced STEM labs or extensive world language programs are less common than in larger districts, but they compensate with personalized attention and strong foundational academics.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools like St. Mary's or St. Denis in New Weston, Ohio?
The enrollment process for New Weston's private schools usually begins in the winter or early spring for the following academic year. It is highly recommended to start the process by January or February. The first step is to contact the school office to schedule a tour and receive an application packet. For the Catholic schools, priority is often given to active parishioners of the supporting church and to siblings of currently enrolled students. The application typically requires submission of records from the previous school, a pastor's recommendation (for parishioner status), and a registration fee. Some schools may have a brief family interview. Given the small size of these schools, spaces can fill quickly, especially in lower grades, so early inquiry is crucial.
For a family in New Weston, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (Mississinawa Valley Local Schools) and a private school option?
The decision hinges on several local factors. **Academically**, Mississinawa Valley public schools offer a broader range of course offerings in higher grades, including more AP/college-credit options and vocational programs through the nearby Darke County Career Center. **Environmentally**, New Weston's private schools offer a distinct faith-based education, strict discipline codes, and very small class sizes (often 15-20 students), which can be appealing for personalized learning. **Logistically**, the public school is free and provides transportation, while private schools require tuition (potentially offset by state scholarships) and often necessitate parent-provided transportation. **Extracurricularly**, the public high school offers more comprehensive sports and club options. Ultimately, the choice centers on whether a family prioritizes the specific religious values and intimate setting of a private school or the no-cost, comprehensive K-12 pathway and broader resources of the public district.