The Best Private Schools in Willoughby, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Willoughby. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Gilmour Academy
Independent Catholic School
Gilmour Academy is a premier independent Catholic school serving students from Montessori through 12th grade. Located just 15 minutes from Willoughby in Gates Mills, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with state-of-the-art facilities including a new STEM wing, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with small class sizes and a 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Gilmour's extensive extracurricular programs include championship athletic teams, robust arts programs, and community service opportunities.
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Andrews Osborne Academy
Independent Day & Boarding School
Located directly in Willoughby, Andrews Osborne Academy is an independent coeducational day and boarding school serving students from early childhood through grade 12. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside Advanced Placement courses, providing rigorous academic challenges. The 300-acre campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, athletic facilities, and equestrian center. AOA emphasizes global education with a diverse student body and offers unique programs in robotics, entrepreneurship, and environmental science.
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Lake Catholic High School
Diocese of Cleveland Catholic Schools
Lake Catholic High School, located just 5 minutes from Willoughby in Mentor, is a comprehensive Catholic college-preparatory school serving students in grades 9-12. The school offers a rigorous academic program with honors and AP courses, along with specialized academies in STEM and business. Lake Catholic features modern facilities including updated science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and extensive athletic complexes. The school maintains strong community ties and emphasizes faith formation, service learning, and character development alongside academic achievement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Willoughby, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available within Willoughby, Ohio, and what are their core educational models?
Willoughby, Ohio, is home to three primary private schools, each with a distinct model. **Gilmour Academy** is a Catholic, independent, coeducational school offering a Montessori program for young children through a college-preparatory Upper School. **Andrews Osborne Academy** is a private, coed, day and boarding school for grades Pre-K through 12, known for its international student body and a strong emphasis on global education and the arts. **Lake Catholic High School** is a diocesan Catholic high school serving grades 9-12, focusing on a faith-based, comprehensive college-prep curriculum. These schools provide a range of religious, independent, and boarding options not typically found in the local public districts.
How does tuition at Willoughby's private schools compare, and what financial aid options are available for Ohio families?
Tuition varies significantly among Willoughby's private schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range from approximately $10,000-$12,000 at Lake Catholic High School to over $30,000 for upper grades at Gilmour Academy and Andrews Osborne Academy (with boarding costs additional at AOA). Critically for Ohio residents, all three schools participate in the **Ohio EdChoice Scholarship Program**. This state program can provide substantial tuition assistance based on either household income or the assigned public school building's performance rating. Additionally, each school offers its own need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. It's essential to contact each school's admissions office directly to understand the full financial picture and application process for aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Willoughby-area private schools offer that set them apart?
Willoughby's private schools offer specialized programs leveraging their unique resources. **Gilmour Academy** features a renowned ice hockey program and a comprehensive STEM curriculum with extensive robotics and engineering courses. **Andrews Osborne Academy** capitalizes on its 300-acre campus with equestrian programs, a dedicated fine arts center, and a globally focused curriculum with advanced language studies. **Lake Catholic High School** offers a strong slate of Career Tech programs in partnership with Auburn Career Center, alongside a wide array of competitive sports in the North Coast League. These specialized opportunities often exceed the scope of standard public school offerings in the area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Willoughby, Ohio?
The enrollment process for Willoughby's private schools is competitive and begins early. Most schools, especially for sought-after early childhood and kindergarten seats, open applications in the **fall prior to the desired enrollment year** (e.g., apply in Fall 2024 for the 2025-2026 school year). Key steps include: 1) Attending open houses (typically held September-November), 2) Submitting an application with fees by winter deadlines, 3) Completing student assessments or interviews, and 4) Applying for financial aid/EdChoice simultaneously. For high schools like Lake Catholic and Gilmour, placement exams for incoming freshmen are usually held in January. We recommend initiating contact with admissions offices by the start of your child's final year before intended entry.
For families living in Willoughby, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools and these private options?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, specific student needs, and cost. Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools provide a tuition-free, comprehensive education with strong community ties. Choosing a Willoughby private school typically involves seeking a specific environment: a **faith-based education** (Gilmour, Lake Catholic), **smaller class sizes** and individualized attention (all three), **specialized academic tracks** (like AOA's international baccalaureate-style curriculum or Gilmour's Montessori continuum), or **unique extracurriculars** (boarding, hockey, equestrian). Transportation is a practical factor; while Ohio law provides some busing for private school students, routes and availability may be limited compared to public school service. Ultimately, the choice involves weighing the value of these specialized offerings against the financial investment required.