The Best Private Schools in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Boalsburg. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
State College Friends School
Independent Quaker School
State College Friends School is a highly-regarded independent Quaker school serving the greater State College area, including Boalsburg. The school offers a progressive education from preschool through 8th grade with small class sizes and a focus on whole-child development. The Quaker-inspired curriculum emphasizes community, social responsibility, and hands-on learning experiences. The school features excellent teacher-student ratios, strong arts programs, and a nurturing environment that consistently receives high marks from parents for academic quality and community atmosphere.
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The Oakwood School
Independent Private School
The Oakwood School is an established independent private school serving the State College metropolitan area, including Boalsburg. The school offers a classical education approach combined with modern teaching methods for students from preschool through 8th grade. Oakwood emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and a balanced curriculum that includes strong arts, music, and outdoor education components. The school is particularly noted for its warm community environment, experienced faculty, and comprehensive academic preparation that earns high praise from current and former families.
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Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School
Charter School
Young Scholars of Central PA is a highly-rated charter school serving the Centre Region, including Boalsburg families. The school provides a rigorous academic program with particular emphasis on STEM education and character development. With a focus on preparing students for high school and beyond, the school offers comprehensive academic programs, enrichment opportunities, and a supportive learning environment. The school receives strong parent satisfaction ratings for its dedicated teachers, challenging curriculum, and inclusive community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania
What are the primary private school options available to families residing in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania?
While Boalsburg itself is a small historic village, it is part of the larger State College area, which offers several notable private options. The most prominent local independent schools include the State College Friends School (a Quaker-based K-8 school), The Oakwood School (a private school with a focus on individualized learning), and the Young Scholars of Central PA Charter School (a public charter school, which is a tuition-free alternative to district schools). Many Boalsburg families also consider private schools in nearby State College, such as the State College Area School District's charter schools or faith-based institutions. Transportation can be a key consideration, as these schools are located a short drive from Boalsburg.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Boalsburg/State College area compare to the Pennsylvania average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition in the Boalsburg area is generally competitive but can vary. For the 2024-2025 academic year, schools like State College Friends School and The Oakwood School have tuition ranges typically between $12,000 and $18,000 for lower grades, which is often slightly below the average for Pennsylvania's major metropolitan areas. Pennsylvania offers several state-specific aid programs that local families can utilize, most notably the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs. These programs provide scholarships funded by business donations, and most local private schools participate. It's essential to apply for financial aid directly through the school and investigate these tax credit scholarships early, as funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Boalsburg area that leverage the local community?
Private schools in the Boalsburg area often integrate the rich local resources of Central Pennsylvania into their curricula. For example, the State College Friends School emphasizes peace education, environmental stewardship, and community service, with outings to nearby natural areas like Rothrock State Forest. The Oakwood School's individualized approach can allow for project-based learning connected to local history, such as the Pennsylvania Military Museum or the Boalsburg Heritage Museum. Furthermore, proximity to Penn State University provides unique opportunities for partnerships, guest speakers, and enrichment in STEM and the arts that are distinctive to this region.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Boalsburg, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for private schools in the State College/Boalsburg area often begins in the fall prior to the desired school year, with application deadlines typically between January and March. For example, State College Friends School usually has a February application deadline for the following fall. Most schools require a campus tour, parent interview, and student visit day. Due to the limited number of seats, especially in lower grades, popular schools can have waitlists. It is highly advisable for Boalsburg parents to initiate inquiries a full year in advance. Sibling and legacy admissions can also affect availability, so checking with each school about their specific priority policies is crucial.
For families in Boalsburg, what are the key considerations when choosing between the highly-rated State College Area public school district and a local private school?
This is a common consideration, as the State College Area School District (SCASD) is consistently ranked among the top public districts in Pennsylvania. The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and specific student needs. Private options like State College Friends School or The Oakwood School offer much smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), alternative pedagogical approaches (e.g., Quaker values, personalized learning plans), and often greater flexibility in curriculum. In contrast, SCASD offers a vast array of AP courses, extensive extracurriculars, and major facility resources, all with no tuition. For Boalsburg families, the choice may come down to whether they seek the diverse, large-scale environment of SCASD or the intimate, mission-driven community of a private school, factoring in the commute to schools located in State College proper.
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