The Best Private Schools in Oxford, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Oxford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary School
Archdiocese of Cincinnati
St. Mary School is Oxford's premier Catholic private school offering education from Pre-K through 8th grade. The school provides a faith-based education integrated with strong academic programming, including dedicated STEM labs, music and art programs, and comprehensive athletic opportunities. Located in the heart of Oxford, the school serves both university faculty families and local community members with small class sizes and individualized attention. The curriculum emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with many graduates advancing to top regional high schools.
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Badin High School
Archdiocese of Cincinnati
Badin High School, located just 15 minutes from Oxford in Hamilton, is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students throughout Butler County. The school offers rigorous academic programs including Advanced Placement courses, a dedicated STEM Academy, and comprehensive fine arts offerings. With a 99% college acceptance rate, Badin provides strong college counseling and numerous extracurricular opportunities. The campus features modern science labs, performing arts facilities, and extensive athletic complexes. Many Oxford families choose Badin for its strong academic reputation and welcoming community atmosphere.
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Lakota Plains Junior School
Lakota Local School District (Public with Private Program Options)
While technically a public school, Lakota Plains Junior School in nearby Liberty Township (approximately 20 minutes from Oxford) offers exceptional educational programs that attract families seeking private-school quality education. The school features specialized programs for gifted students, advanced STEM curriculum, and comprehensive arts education. With outstanding facilities including state-of-the-art technology labs, extensive library resources, and modern athletic facilities, the school provides an education comparable to top private institutions. The district's open enrollment policy makes this an accessible option for Oxford residents seeking high-quality educational alternatives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Oxford, Ohio
What are the main private school options available for families living in Oxford, Ohio, and what grade levels do they serve?
In Oxford and the immediate surrounding Butler County area, the primary private school options include St. Mary School (a Catholic school serving Pre-K through 8th grade), Badin High School (a Catholic, co-educational high school serving grades 9-12 in nearby Hamilton), and Lakota Plains Junior School (a private junior high serving grades 7-8, also part of the Lakota area). It's important to note that for a full K-12 private education, Oxford families often consider a combination of these schools or look at options in neighboring cities like Cincinnati. The presence of Miami University also influences the community, with some university-affiliated families seeking private education.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Oxford, Ohio area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Ohio?
Tuition varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Mary School's tuition is approximately $5,000-$6,000 for parishioners, while Badin High School's tuition is around $11,000-$12,000. Lakota Plains Junior School's tuition is typically higher, reflecting its specific junior high model. Ohio offers several state-specific financial aid options that Oxford families can utilize, most notably the EdChoice Scholarship Program, which provides vouchers based on either residency in a low-performing public school district or family income. Additionally, the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship and the Autism Scholarship Program are available for eligible students. All local private schools have their own need-based financial aid and payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Oxford area that leverage the local context?
Private schools near Oxford often create programs that connect with the resources and ethos of the region. Badin High School, for instance, has strong STEM and college-preparatory programs that sometimes facilitate partnerships with Miami University's engineering or education departments. St. Mary School emphasizes its faith-based education and community service, aligning with Oxford's strong sense of community. Furthermore, schools may offer specialized programs in environmental science, taking advantage of Ohio's natural landscapes, or robust arts programs that occasionally interact with Miami University's renowned performing arts departments. The collegiate atmosphere of Oxford also means these schools often attract teachers with advanced degrees.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary School in Oxford, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Oxford-area private schools typically begins in the winter for the following fall semester. For St. Mary School, priority registration for existing families and parish members often opens in January, with open registration for new families in February or March. Badin High School holds shadow days and open houses in the fall for 8th graders, with application deadlines in early winter. Due to the limited number of private schools serving the immediate Oxford population, popular grades, especially early elementary at St. Mary and freshman year at Badin, can have waitlists. It is highly recommended to contact the school's admissions office a full year in advance, schedule a tour, and understand any parish affiliation requirements.
For families considering both options, what are the key differences between the Oxford public school district and the available private schools?
The Talawanda City School District serves Oxford and surrounding areas. Key differences include class size (private schools like St. Mary often have smaller student-to-teacher ratios), curriculum (private schools can offer a religious-based education and may have more curricular flexibility), and community. Public schools offer a wide range of extracurriculars and AP courses funded by tax dollars, while private schools fund their programs through tuition. A significant consideration for Oxford families is that private high school options like Badin are not within the Oxford city limits, requiring a commute to Hamilton, whereas Talawanda High School is local. The decision often hinges on values alignment, desired class size, religious education, and the willingness to utilize Ohio's scholarship programs to offset private tuition costs.
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