The Best Private Schools in Paris, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Paris. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
St. Thomas Aquinas High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Paris and surrounding communities. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 15 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and competitive athletic teams. Facilities include modern science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and emphasizes character development through community service requirements.
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St. Paul School
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
St. Paul School provides exceptional Catholic education for students in preschool through eighth grade, serving families from Paris and the greater Stark County area. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, language arts, and religious education. Facilities include modern technology labs, a library media center, and gymnasium. The school emphasizes academic excellence while fostering spiritual growth and community involvement.
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Regina Coeli School
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
Regina Coeli School offers comprehensive Catholic education for students from preschool through eighth grade, serving the Paris area and surrounding communities. The school provides a strong academic foundation with emphasis on core subjects, faith formation, and character development. Features include updated classroom technology, science labs, music programs, and competitive sports. The school maintains high academic standards with graduates consistently performing well in area high schools and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Paris, Ohio
What are the private school options available for families living in or near Paris, Ohio, and what grade levels do they serve?
Paris, Ohio, is served by a small number of private, primarily Catholic, schools. The main options include St. Thomas Aquinas High School (grades 9-12), St. Paul School (typically grades K-8), and Regina Coeli School (typically grades K-8). Given the rural setting of Paris in Stark County, many families also consider private schools in nearby larger communities like Canton or Alliance for a broader range of options, including non-denominational Christian academies. It's important to note that availability is limited directly in Paris, so transportation planning is a key consideration.
How does tuition at private schools in the Paris, Ohio, area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Ohio residents?
Tuition for the Catholic schools serving Paris, OH, is generally considered moderate compared to larger metropolitan private schools. Rates vary by school and family parish membership, but families can expect annual tuition for elementary grades to range significantly, often with discounted rates for multiple children. Ohio offers two major financial aid programs: the EdChoice Scholarship (based on income or residing in a low-performing public school district) and the Autism Scholarship. Additionally, many diocesan schools offer parish-based subsidies and need-based financial aid through the school itself. It's crucial to check each school's specific application process for these state and local programs.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Paris, Ohio, area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools near Paris, OH, emphasize a faith-based education integrated into the core curriculum, which is their primary differentiator. Academically, they often feature smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. St. Thomas Aquinas High School, for instance, offers college preparatory tracks and may have partnerships with local colleges for dual-credit courses. Extracurriculars often include strong emphasis on community service, religious activities, and traditional sports. While the public schools in the Paris area (like Marlington Local School District) may offer a wider array of elective courses or specialized sports due to larger size, private schools provide a specific value-based environment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Paul or Regina Coeli in Paris, Ohio?
Enrollment for the upcoming academic year at these parish-based schools often begins in early winter (January-February), with priority frequently given to active parish members and siblings of current students. The process typically involves submitting an application, providing birth and baptismal certificates, academic records, and possibly a family interview. Given the small size of these schools, spaces can be limited, especially in specific grade levels, so initiating contact by December is advisable. Many schools also host open houses in the fall. It's highly recommended to contact the school office directly, as policies can vary between St. Paul and Regina Coeli.
For families in rural Paris, Ohio, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. **Transportation:** Public schools in the Marlington Local or West Branch Local districts provide busing throughout the rural area, while private schools typically require parent-provided transportation, which can be a significant commitment. **Cost:** Public schools are tuition-free. Private schools require tuition, though Ohio scholarships may offset costs. **Environment:** Private schools offer a consistent, faith-based environment with often smaller, close-knit classrooms. Public schools offer a broader socioeconomic diversity and potentially more extensive facilities, elective courses, and athletic programs due to larger district resources. Families in Paris should also consider the community aspect and where their children's established friendships are formed.