The Best Private Schools in Windsor, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Windsor. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Gilmour Academy
Independent
Gilmour Academy is an esteemed independent school serving students from Windsor and across Northeast Ohio, renowned for its academic excellence and holistic approach. Offering programs from Montessori early childhood through high school, including the International Baccalaureate diploma, the school features state-of-the-art facilities such as science centers, athletic fields, and arts studios. With a low student-teacher ratio and a focus on character development, it provides extensive extracurricular opportunities, resulting in high parent satisfaction and top-tier educational outcomes.
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Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School is a highly regarded co-educational Catholic high school serving students from Ashtabula County and surrounding areas. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, the school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and emphasizes college readiness. With a strong focus on faith-based education, it features modern facilities, including science labs and athletic complexes. Extracurricular activities span sports, fine arts, and community service, contributing to high parent satisfaction and student success rates.
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Lake Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland
Lake Catholic High School is a comprehensive Catholic secondary school that attracts students from Windsor and the broader Northeast Ohio region. It boasts a robust academic program with emphasis on STEM and college preparation, supported by dedicated faculty and updated facilities like technology labs and a performing arts center. The school promotes a balanced education through extracurriculars including sports teams, clubs, and community service projects, leading to strong parent reviews and a supportive learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Windsor, Ohio
What are the primary private school options available for families in or near Windsor, Ohio?
While Windsor itself is a small township, families in the area typically look to nearby communities for private school options. The most prominent are Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School (NDCL) in Chardon, Lake Catholic High School in Mentor, and Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills. These are all within a reasonable commuting distance. For younger grades, there are also several Catholic elementary schools in surrounding Lake and Geauga County parishes. It's important for Windsor parents to consider the commute, as these schools are not located within the township boundaries but serve the broader Northeast Ohio region.
How does Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship program affect tuition for private schools near Windsor?
Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship program can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of private school tuition for eligible families in Windsor. This state-funded voucher is based on either the performance rating of your assigned public school building or household income. Schools like NDCL, Lake Catholic, and Gilmour Academy accept these scholarships. The amount varies yearly but can cover a substantial portion of tuition. It's crucial to apply through the school's financial aid office and meet state deadlines. Additionally, all these schools offer their own need-based financial aid, so families should explore both options.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools serving Windsor, OH, offer?
The schools accessible to Windsor families provide distinct programs. Gilmour Academy is renowned for its rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and extensive college-prep resources. Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School offers a strong STEM curriculum with notable science research opportunities. Lake Catholic High School emphasizes a values-based education with robust service-learning programs and competitive athletics. All three offer college credit plus courses through partnerships with local universities. For families interested in specific arts, athletics, or faith-based education, touring each campus to see their facilities and speak with faculty is highly recommended.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private high schools near Windsor, Ohio?
The enrollment process for schools like NDCL, Lake Catholic, and Gilmour Academy typically begins in the fall for the following academic year. Open houses are held from September through November. Application deadlines are often in early winter (January/February), with acceptance notifications sent by March. The process involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and usually taking an entrance exam (like the HSPT). For Windsor families, it's advisable to start research and attend open houses in 7th grade for high school placement. Sibling and legacy applicants often receive priority, so applying early is key.
As a resident of a rural township like Windsor, what are the key considerations when comparing local public schools to private schools in the area?
Windsor families are part of the Berkshire Local School District, which offers a small, community-oriented public education. Key considerations when comparing include: class size (private schools often have smaller ratios), specialized academic tracks (like IB at Gilmour), religious education (if desired), and transportation. Ohio law requires public districts to provide transportation to private schools within a certain radius; Windsor parents should confirm routes and limits with the Berkshire district. Also, consider the social and extracurricular network—private schools draw from a wider geographic area, which can be a pro for diversity or a con for local camaraderie. The decision often hinges on academic goals, values alignment, and the feasibility of the daily commute to neighboring cities.