The Best Private Schools in Williamsport, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Williamsport. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Bishop Flaget School
Catholic Diocese of Columbus
Bishop Flaget School is a highly-regarded Catholic school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Located approximately 15 miles from Williamsport, this established institution offers a comprehensive academic program with strong emphasis on faith-based education, character development, and academic excellence. The school features modern facilities, dedicated faculty, and a robust extracurricular program including sports, music, and arts. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community feel, and excellent preparation for high school.
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St. Mary School
Catholic Diocese of Columbus
St. Mary School in Lancaster provides exceptional private education for students in preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout the region including Williamsport. The school boasts small class sizes, individualized attention, and a rigorous academic curriculum integrated with Catholic values. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer labs, and athletic facilities. The school is particularly noted for its strong parent-teacher collaboration, comprehensive technology program, and excellent student-to-teacher ratio that ensures personalized learning experiences.
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Harvest Preparatory School
Harvest Preparatory School Network
Harvest Preparatory School is a highly-rated private Christian school located in Circleville, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade and drawing families from surrounding communities including Williamsport. The school emphasizes college preparation with a strong STEM curriculum, advanced placement courses, and comprehensive athletic programs. Known for its disciplined environment and academic rigor, Harvest Prep features state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a track record of successful college placements. The school maintains a strong focus on character development alongside academic achievement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Williamsport, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for K-12 education in Williamsport, Ohio, and what are their core affiliations?
In Williamsport, Ohio, and the immediate surrounding area of Pickaway County, your primary private school options are Bishop Flaget School (PreK-8, Catholic), St. Mary School in nearby Circleville (PreK-8, Catholic), and Harvest Preparatory School, which is a bit farther in Columbus (K-12, Christian). For Williamsport residents, Bishop Flaget is the most local option. It's important to note that Williamsport itself is a small village, so many families look to schools in nearby Circleville or even Columbus for a full K-12 private education. Transportation logistics are a key consideration for Williamsport families choosing a school outside the village.
How does tuition at private schools serving Williamsport, Ohio, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools accessible to Williamsport families is generally below the Ohio state average for private schools, reflecting the region's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, Bishop Flaget School's tuition is approximately $5,000-$6,000 for parishioners. Ohio offers two significant financial aid programs: the EdChoice Scholarship (voucher) program, based on household income or residing in a designated public school boundary, and the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship. Additionally, most local Catholic schools offer parish subsidies and need-based aid from the Diocese of Columbus. It's crucial to apply for state programs early, as funding is limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Williamsport, Ohio, area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools near Williamsport emphasize small class sizes and values-based education. Bishop Flaget School integrates Catholic faith throughout its curriculum and offers weekly Mass. St. Mary School in Circleville often features strong community service programs aligned with its parish. While Williamsport's local public district is part of the Westfall Local School District, the private options provide an alternative with structured religious education. For specialized programs like advanced STEM or arts, families often consider the longer commute to larger schools in Columbus, such as Harvest Preparatory, which may have more extensive offerings.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Bishop Flaget that serve Williamsport, Ohio, families?
The enrollment process for Bishop Flaget School typically begins in January or February for the following academic year, with priority given to existing families and registered parishioners of supporting Catholic churches. Open houses are usually held in the winter. The process involves submitting an application, birth and baptismal certificates, previous school records, and a registration fee. For Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship, the application window opens in February, and it is critical to apply as soon as possible. Given the small size of the school, spaces can be limited, especially in certain grade levels, so early inquiry is strongly advised for Williamsport residents.
For a family in Williamsport, Ohio, what are the key practical considerations when choosing between the local public school (Westfall) and a private school option?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. **Transportation:** Westfall Local Schools provide busing within the district, while private schools typically require parent-provided transportation, which can be a significant commitment from Williamsport. **Cost:** Public school is tuition-free. Private school requires tuition, though Ohio vouchers can offset costs. **Environment:** Westfall offers a comprehensive public school experience with sports and clubs. Private schools like Bishop Flaget offer a close-knit, faith-based community with smaller classes. **Academic Continuity:** Consider the long-term plan; since Bishop Flaget ends at 8th grade, you would need to plan for high school (e.g., transitioning to a Catholic high school in Columbus or returning to Westfall High School). Visiting both types of schools is essential to feel the difference in community culture.