The Best Private Schools in Mulino, Oregon
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Mulino. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Holy Family Catholic School
Archdiocese of Portland
Holy Family Catholic School is a highly-regarded private school serving the Mulino area from nearby Oregon City. With over 70 years of educational excellence, this parochial school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education rooted in Catholic values. The school features small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong academic foundation with integrated technology and STEM programming. Parents consistently praise the supportive community environment, excellent teacher-student relationships, and well-rounded education that includes robust music, arts, and athletic programs. The school maintains strong parent involvement and serves families throughout Clackamas County.
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Valley Catholic School
Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Ministries Corporation
Valley Catholic School is a premier private institution serving the greater Portland metro area, including Mulino families seeking exceptional college preparatory education. Operating on a beautiful 43-acre campus, the school offers education from early learning through high school with the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and highly qualified faculty, Valley Catholic provides rigorous academics alongside comprehensive arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs. The school has a proven track record of graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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St. John the Apostle Catholic School
Archdiocese of Portland
St. John the Apostle Catholic School provides exceptional private education to families in Mulino and surrounding Clackamas County communities. This Pre-K through 8th grade school emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-based environment while incorporating modern educational approaches. The school features comprehensive technology integration with 1:1 device programs, Spanish language instruction from early grades, and innovative outdoor education components. Parents consistently highlight the strong community atmosphere, dedicated teachers who provide individualized attention, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students. The curriculum balances core academics with arts, music, and physical education, preparing students for success in high school and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Mulino, Oregon
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Mulino, Oregon, and are they located within the city limits?
While Mulino itself is a small, unincorporated community, families have access to several well-regarded private schools in the surrounding Clackamas County area. The most prominent options include Holy Family Catholic School in nearby Portland, Valley Catholic School in Beaverton, and St. John the Apostle Catholic School in Oregon City. It's important to note that none of these schools are physically located within Mulino's boundaries, so daily commuting to Beaverton, Oregon City, or Portland is a necessary consideration. These schools represent the closest and most established private institutions serving the Mulino community.
How does the tuition for private schools serving Mulino, Oregon, compare, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition for the primary private schools accessible to Mulino families varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000+ for elementary grades, with Valley Catholic's middle and high school programs being higher. A key Oregon-specific financial consideration is the "Opportunity Grant" tax credit program. While not a voucher, it allows Oregon taxpayers to receive a state tax credit for donations to scholarship-granting organizations, which then provide need-based aid to students attending private schools. Additionally, all the mentioned Catholic schools have their own parish subsidy and financial aid programs based on demonstrated need.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools near Mulino, Oregon, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools serving the Mulino area offer distinct programs rooted in their missions. Valley Catholic School provides a rare Pre-K through 12th grade continuum on one campus, with robust programs in music, arts, and STEM, including a dedicated science research center. Holy Family and St. John the Apostle integrate faith-based education and character development throughout their curriculum. A notable differentiator is often smaller class sizes (typically 18-25 students) compared to some larger public school districts in Clackamas County. Many also offer specialized language programs, such as Spanish from an early grade, and structured community service requirements.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for families in Mulino applying to schools like Valley Catholic or St. John the Apostle?
The enrollment process for these sought-after schools is competitive and requires early planning. The standard timeline begins with open houses in the fall (October-November) for admission the following academic year. Applications are typically due between January and February. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student assessment or shadow day. For Catholic schools, priority is frequently given to active parish members and siblings of current students. Given the limited seats and demand from the broader Portland metro area, including communities like Mulino, it is strongly advised to initiate inquiries at least a year in advance.
For a family living in Mulino, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local public schools (North Clackamas School District) and a private school requiring a commute?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. Mulino is served by the North Clackamas School District (e.g., Rural Dell Elementary, Rowe Middle School), which provides a tuition-free, community-centered option. Choosing a private school like those in Beaverton or Oregon City adds a significant daily commute of 20-45 minutes each way, impacting family logistics and student schedules. Parents must weigh the value of a specific religious or pedagogical approach against commute time and cost. Additionally, private school choice may mean your child is not attending school with immediate neighborhood peers, which affects local social connections. Evaluating transportation options (carpools, school buses) offered by the private schools for the Mulino area is a crucial practical step.