The Best Private Schools in Perkins, Oklahoma
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Perkins. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. John's Episcopal School
Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma
St. John's Episcopal School in nearby Stillwater serves families throughout Payne County, including Perkins. This highly-rated independent school offers a comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with small class sizes and individualized attention. The school emphasizes academic excellence through a rigorous curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, comprehensive fine arts, and character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic spaces. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, strong community atmosphere, and the school's ability to prepare students for success in high school and beyond.
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Stillwater Christian School
Independent Christian School
Stillwater Christian School provides a comprehensive K-12 education serving families from Perkins and surrounding communities. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with college preparatory coursework, Advanced Placement opportunities, and a biblical worldview integrated throughout the curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratories, computer labs, and athletic facilities. The school offers diverse extracurricular activities including competitive sports, music programs, and community service opportunities. Parent reviews highlight the school's caring environment, academic rigor, and commitment to developing well-rounded students with strong moral character.
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St. Mary's Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Tulsa
St. Mary's Catholic School in Stillwater has served families from Perkins and the wider Payne County area for over six decades. The school offers a faith-based education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character formation. The curriculum includes comprehensive language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies programs enhanced by technology integration, STEM enrichment activities, and robust music and arts programs. The school features well-maintained facilities including smart classrooms, a dedicated science lab, library, and gymnasium. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's nurturing environment, dedicated teachers, and strong sense of community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Perkins, Oklahoma
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Perkins, Oklahoma?
While Perkins itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby Stillwater for private school options. The most prominent schools serving the Perkins area are St. Mary's Catholic School (Pre-K-8) and Stillwater Christian School (K-12), both located in Stillwater, approximately a 10-15 minute drive from Perkins. St. John's Episcopal School, also in Stillwater, is another option. For Perkins residents, these schools offer a private education alternative without the need to relocate, though transportation is generally the family's responsibility. There are no private high schools physically located within the Perkins town limits.
How does tuition at private schools near Perkins, OK, compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Stillwater/Perkins area is generally below the national average for private education, reflecting Oklahoma's lower cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, expect ranges from approximately $5,000 to $8,000 annually for elementary grades at schools like St. Mary's or Stillwater Christian. Financial aid is commonly available through the schools themselves, often based on demonstrated need. Additionally, Oklahoma's Parental Choice Tax Credit program is a significant financial consideration, allowing eligible families to receive a refundable tax credit for a portion of private school tuition and fees, which can substantially reduce the net cost for Perkins residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Perkins offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Perkins/Stillwater area often emphasize specific educational philosophies and smaller class sizes. St. Mary's Catholic School integrates faith-based learning and character education throughout its curriculum. Stillwater Christian School offers a distinctly Christian worldview across all subjects and may provide specialized tracks or dual-enrollment opportunities with local colleges. These schools can offer more individualized attention and often have strong programs in music, art, and community service that are central to their missions. Their unique environments are a key draw for families seeking an education aligned with specific values, which may differ from the broader curriculum of Perkins-Tryon Public Schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Perkins, Oklahoma students?
The enrollment process for schools like St. Mary's Catholic School and Stillwater Christian School usually begins in January or February for the following fall semester. It's crucial for Perkins families to apply early, as spaces, particularly in lower grades, can be limited. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall and winter. Sibling and parishioner (for Catholic schools) applicants often receive priority. We recommend contacting the admissions office of your chosen school by November to get specific dates and requirements.
For a family in Perkins, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation and community when choosing a private school in Stillwater?
Choosing a private school in Stillwater requires planning for daily transportation, as no district busing is provided from Perkins. This means a commute of about 10-20 minutes each way. However, many Perkins families form carpools. The community aspect is strong; your child will build friendships primarily with Stillwater-area students, so involvement in after-school activities or sports may require additional travel. On the positive side, your family gains access to the broader resources and networks of a university town. It's important to consider this balance between the close-knit Perkins community and the expanded, value-based community of the chosen private school.