The Best Private Schools in Cresson, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cresson. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown
Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School is a highly-regarded private Catholic school serving students in grades 9-12. Located approximately 20 miles from Cresson in Altoona, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on faith-based education. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a comprehensive extracurricular program including championship athletic teams, performing arts, and community service opportunities. The school maintains high academic standards with 98% of graduates attending college.
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Divine Mercy Catholic Academy
Roman Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown
Divine Mercy Catholic Academy serves students from preschool through 8th grade and is located approximately 15 miles from Cresson in Johnstown. The school provides a comprehensive Catholic education with strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. Features include modern classrooms, technology integration across all grade levels, and specialized instruction in music, art, and physical education. The school offers before and after-school care programs and maintains small student-teacher ratios. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong community feel, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students.
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Saint Patrick School
Independent Catholic School
Saint Patrick School in Hollidaysburg, located approximately 25 miles from Cresson, provides a comprehensive Catholic education for students in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-filled community environment. Features include smart classroom technology, dedicated science and computer labs, library resources, and modern athletic facilities. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, language arts, and science programs complemented by art, music, and foreign language instruction. The school is known for its strong parent involvement, community partnerships, and successful preparation of students for competitive high school programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cresson, Pennsylvania
What are the main private school options available for families living in or near Cresson, Pennsylvania?
In the Cresson, PA area, the primary private school options are faith-based institutions, reflecting the region's strong Catholic community. The notable schools include Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School (a diocesan high school in nearby Altoona), Divine Mercy Catholic Academy (a regional elementary school in Johnstown), and Saint Patrick School (an elementary school in Gallitzin). Due to Cresson's smaller size, most private schooling requires commuting to neighboring towns within a 15-20 minute drive. These schools are part of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese, offering a continuous Pre-K through 12th grade Catholic education pathway for local families.
How does tuition for private schools in the Cresson, PA area typically work, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for the diocesan schools serving Cresson is set by the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese and individual parishes. For the 2024-2025 academic year, elementary school tuition (like at Saint Patrick School) often has a discounted rate for active, contributing parishioners of supporting churches, with higher rates for non-parishioners. High school tuition at Bishop Guilfoyle is separate. All schools offer need-based financial aid, and Pennsylvania state programs are critical: the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs provide family scholarships through local scholarship organizations. It's essential for Cresson parents to apply for these state programs early and consult directly with their chosen school's financial office.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Cresson emphasize?
Private schools in the Cresson area blend strong college-prep academics with character formation rooted in Catholic values. Bishop Guilfoyle High School is known for its STEM initiatives, competitive athletics, and a renowned marching band. Divine Mercy Catholic Academy and Saint Patrick School focus on foundational literacy and math, integrating technology and faith. A notable aspect for this region is the emphasis on community service and local heritage, with projects often tied to the area's history. Given Cresson's proximity to the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and Penn State Altoona, some high school programs may facilitate dual-enrollment opportunities for advanced students.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Saint Patrick or Divine Mercy Academy for a family in Cresson?
Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically opens in January for existing families and in February for new families. The process for Cresson residents involves submitting an application, providing sacramental records (for Catholic schools), recent report cards, and possibly a student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall and winter. A key consideration is parish registration—if seeking the active parishioner tuition rate, you must be registered and contributing to a supporting parish (like St. Francis Xavier in Cresson or other local parishes). Early application is advised, especially for limited seats in early childhood grades. Contacting the school office directly is the best first step.
For a family in Cresson, what are the primary considerations when choosing between the local public school (Penn Cambria School District) and a private diocesan school?
The decision often centers on educational philosophy, cost, and commute. Penn Cambria School District provides a tuition-free, comprehensive K-12 education within the community. Choosing a private diocesan school involves tuition but offers a faith-based environment with typically smaller class sizes and a consistent moral framework. For Cresson families, the commute is a practical factor—public schools are in Cresson or nearby, while private options require driving to Gallitzin, Johnstown, or Altoona. Academically, both sectors perform well, but private schools here have high graduation and college attendance rates. Many families use Pennsylvania's tax credit scholarships to make private school financially feasible, valuing the religious education and community the diocesan schools provide.
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