The Best Private Schools in Jessup, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Jessup. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Scranton Preparatory School
Jesuits
Scranton Preparatory School is a highly regarded Jesuit college preparatory school known for its rigorous academic curriculum, including Advanced Placement courses and a strong emphasis on critical thinking. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities such as robotics, theater, and athletics. Parent and student satisfaction is high due to its supportive community and excellent college placement records.
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Holy Cross High School
Diocese of Scranton
Holy Cross High School offers a comprehensive Catholic education with a focus on academic excellence, spiritual development, and character building. The school provides a robust curriculum supported by experienced teachers, modern facilities, and diverse programs in sports, music, and community service. It is praised for its tight-knit community and strong parent involvement, ensuring a well-rounded student experience.
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The Christian Academy of Scranton
Independent Christian
The Christian Academy of Scranton delivers a faith-based education integrating biblical principles with a strong academic foundation. It offers programs in college preparation, technology, and the arts, supported by dedicated staff and a family-oriented environment. The school is known for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and high parent satisfaction, fostering both academic and personal growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Jessup, Pennsylvania
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Jessup, Pennsylvania, and are they located directly in Jessup or in the surrounding area?
While Jessup itself is a smaller borough, families have access to several highly-regarded private schools in the immediate Scranton area of Lackawanna County. The most prominent options include Scranton Preparatory School (Jesuit, co-ed, grades 9-12) in Scranton, Holy Cross High School (Diocesan, co-ed, grades 9-12) in Dunmore, and The Christian Academy of Scranton (interdenominational Christian, co-ed, grades PreK-12) also in Scranton. These schools typically serve students from Jessup and many surrounding communities, with transportation sometimes provided or arranged through district contracts. There are limited, if any, private secondary schools physically located within Jessup's borders, making these nearby institutions the standard choice.
How does the tuition for private high schools like Scranton Prep or Holy Cross compare for Jessup, PA residents, and what financial aid options are commonly available?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at schools like Scranton Preparatory School and Holy Cross High School typically ranges from approximately $12,000 to $16,000 annually. It's important for Jessup parents to note that Pennsylvania offers several state-supported financial aid programs that can significantly offset costs. The most notable is the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, which fund need-based scholarships through organizations like the Bridge Educational Foundation. Additionally, all the major local private schools offer their own substantial need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Families are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admissions, as these resources make private education accessible to a wider range of families in the Jessup area.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Jessup/Scranton area that distinguish them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Scranton area serving Jessup students often provide distinctive programs rooted in their missions. Scranton Prep offers a rigorous Jesuit college-preparatory curriculum with a strong emphasis on service and ethics, along with robust programs in robotics and debate. Holy Cross High School features a dedicated STEM Academy and a renowned theater program. The Christian Academy of Scranton provides a comprehensive Biblical worldview integration across all subjects and a noted fine arts program. A common advantage in this region is smaller average class sizes compared to the larger public school districts, allowing for more personalized attention. Many also have stronger language program continuums and unique partnerships with local colleges for dual-enrollment credits.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for a Jessup student seeking to enter a private school like Scranton Prep in 9th grade?
The enrollment process for competitive private high schools in the Scranton area begins well in advance. For 9th grade entry, the timeline typically starts in the fall of a student's 8th grade year. Key steps include: attending open houses (often held September-November), submitting an application by a December or January deadline, taking a standardized entrance exam (like the HSPT) usually in January, and completing a family interview. Admissions decisions and financial aid awards are typically communicated in February or March. For Jessup families, it's crucial to initiate contact with the admissions office early, as some schools give consideration to siblings of alumni or current students. Waiting lists are common, so adhering to deadlines is paramount.
For a family in Jessup deciding between the local public school (Valley View School District) and a private school, what are some key local factors to consider?
The decision between Valley View School District and a private school involves several Jessup-specific considerations. Academically, Valley View is a well-regarded public district, so the comparison often centers on educational approach: a larger, comprehensive public school experience versus a smaller, mission-driven private environment with a specific religious or philosophical foundation. Logistically, Jessup students attending Valley View have a very short commute, while private schools require transportation to Scranton or Dunmore; some districts may provide transportation for private school students, but policies vary. Financially, it involves weighing property taxes (which fund the public schools) against private tuition. Culturally, the choice may reflect a desire for a faith-based education or a particular college-prep intensity that defines the identity of the private institutions in the greater Scranton area.
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