BestPrivateSchoolsNear.me
Excellence Verified

The Best Private Schools in Mc Grann, Pennsylvania

Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Mc Grann. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.

3
Private Schools
4.5
Average Rating
0
Total Students
3
School Types

School Overview

0
Religious Schools
3
Secular Schools
3
Different Types

Top-Rated Private Schools

St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe School

Diocese of Pittsburgh Catholic Schools

4.7

St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe School is a highly-regarded Catholic school located just 7 miles from Mc Grann in Kittanning. Serving students from preschool through 8th grade, this school offers a comprehensive academic program rooted in Catholic values. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong emphasis on both academic excellence and character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, music room, and gymnasium. The school maintains high parent satisfaction with its family-oriented community and comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for high school success.

1009 Liberty St, Kittanning, PA 16201, Mc Grann, Pennsylvania PA 16201
Grades: K-12
Founded 1958

Programs:

Catholic educationSTEM curriculumMusic and Arts+1 more

Grace Christian School

Independent Christian School

4.5

Grace Christian School is an independent Christian school located approximately 8 miles from Mc Grann in Ford City. Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum integrated with Biblical worldview education. The school features experienced faculty, modern technology integration, and comprehensive extracurricular programs including competitive sports, fine arts, and community service opportunities. Parents consistently praise the school's strong academic foundation, supportive community environment, and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for college and beyond.

1255 Franklin Ave, Ford City, PA 16226, Mc Grann, Pennsylvania PA 16226
Grades: K-12
Founded 1999

Programs:

College preparatoryBiblical studiesFine arts+1 more

Shannock Valley Christian Academy

Independent Christian Academy

4.3

Shannock Valley Christian Academy is a well-established private Christian school located about 8 miles from Mc Grann in Ford City. Serving students from preschool through high school, the academy provides a comprehensive education focused on academic achievement, spiritual growth, and character development. The school features a dedicated faculty, updated facilities including science labs and computer rooms, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The academy is known for its strong sense of community, individualized attention, and commitment to preparing students for future academic and life success through a balanced curriculum and values-based education.

1360 Franklin Ave, Ford City, PA 16226, Mc Grann, Pennsylvania PA 16226
Grades: K-12
Founded 1989

Programs:

Academic enrichmentCharacter educationMusic program+1 more

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about private schools in Mc Grann, Pennsylvania

What are the primary private school options available for families in Mc Grann, Pennsylvania, and what are their core educational approaches?

Mc Grann, PA, and its surrounding Armstrong County area offer a few key private school options, each with distinct approaches. St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe School provides a traditional Catholic education infused with faith-based values. Grace Christian School and Shannock Valley Christian Academy both offer Protestant, Bible-centered curricula, often with an emphasis on a conservative Christian worldview and character development. These schools are typically K-8, so families with high school students will need to explore options in larger nearby towns like Kittanning or Ford City. The intimate size of these schools is a hallmark, allowing for small class sizes and close-knit communities.

How does tuition at private schools in the Mc Grann, PA, area compare, and are there any Pennsylvania-specific financial aid programs available?

Tuition for the private schools near Mc Grann is generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas, often ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 annually for elementary grades, but you must contact each school for exact, current figures. A critical Pennsylvania-specific resource is the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs. These programs provide scholarships to eligible students through donations from businesses to approved scholarship organizations. Many local private schools, including those in the Mc Grann area, participate with these organizations. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid, and parish subsidies are often available at Catholic schools for active members.

What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Mc Grann area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?

The private schools in the Mc Grann region differentiate themselves through specialized programming rooted in their missions. Faith integration is the most significant, with religion classes, weekly chapel or Mass, and service projects woven into the daily schedule. Academically, many utilize structured, traditional curricula like Abeka or Bob Jones University Press, which offer a consistent, grade-level approach. Due to their small size, extracurriculars are often limited compared to a large public district, but they may focus on community-oriented activities like choir, academic competitions, and local sports co-ops. The defining feature is the ability to provide a values-based education in a disciplined, small-environment setting that some families prefer.

What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for families interested in private schools like St. Mary or Grace Christian School in Mc Grann, PA?

The enrollment process for Mc Grann-area private schools usually begins in the winter or early spring for the following fall, though many accept applications year-round based on availability. The process typically involves: 1) Submitting an application with a fee, 2) Providing academic records from the previous school, 3) A family interview or meeting with the principal, and 4) For faith-based schools, possibly a pastoral reference or proof of parish membership. Some schools may require placement testing. It's highly advisable to contact the school directly by January or February to secure a spot, as classes are small and can fill quickly. Open houses or shadow days for prospective students are commonly offered.

For a family in rural Mc Grann, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation and community when choosing a local private school?

Transportation is a key practical consideration in rural Mc Grann. Pennsylvania law does not require public school districts to provide transportation to private school students beyond a 10-mile radius, though many districts do offer it as a service. You must check with the Armstrong School District for specific bus routes and eligibility for your chosen private school. Many families form carpools. Regarding community, these schools often serve as central hubs for like-minded families, creating strong social and support networks. The trade-off for this tight-knit community and tailored education is often a longer daily commute and less access to the broad range of sports, arts, and advanced facilities that a larger public school like Armstrong Junior-Senior High School might provide.

Private Education Insights

Discover the Best Private Pre-K Programs in McGrann, PA: A Parent's Guide

For families in Mc Grann, Pennsylvania, the decision to enroll a child in a private pre k program is one filled with both excitement and careful consideration. Nestled in Armstrong County, our community values a strong start for its youngest learners, and the local private schools offer distinctive environments that blend early academics with character development. Understanding the landscape of private pre k here means looking beyond just the classroom to how these programs integrate with the values and rhythms of life in our area.

The journey often begins with identifying what “private” means for your family in Mc Grann. It typically signifies a program with a defined educational philosophy, often rooted in faith or specific pedagogical approaches, and smaller class sizes that allow for more individualized attention. This is a significant advantage during the pre k years, which are critical for social, emotional, and foundational academic growth. At institutions like St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe School or Grace Christian School, a private pre k experience is built upon a structured yet nurturing framework. These programs often incorporate faith-based values and community service, mirroring the close-knit, supportive nature of Mc Grann itself. For parents seeking an education that extends moral and spiritual development alongside letters and numbers, these options provide a cohesive path from preschool onward.

Practical considerations for Mc Grann families are unique. Unlike larger urban centers, our private pre k programs are deeply embedded in the local community. This often translates into strong parent-teacher relationships and a real sense of partnership. When researching, it’s wise to inquire about daily routines, outdoor play opportunities—especially important with our beautiful Western Pennsylvania seasons—and how the school fosters a child’s independence. Schools like Shannock Valley Christian Academy, for instance, may emphasize a biblical worldview integrated into all learning activities, creating a consistent environment for young children. Visiting is crucial; you’ll want to observe not just the facilities but the feel of the place. Does it have the warmth and security that will help your child thrive?

Another key aspect is continuity. Many parents appreciate that a private pre k program at these schools can lead seamlessly into their kindergarten and elementary grades, providing stability and a long-term educational home. This can alleviate future transition anxieties for both children and parents. Financially, it’s important to have open conversations about tuition, as many schools offer flexible payment plans or limited scholarship opportunities for local families. The investment is often viewed not just for a single year of pre k, but for the foundation of a lifelong learning journey.

Ultimately, choosing a private pre k in Mc Grann is about finding the right fit where your child’s curiosity is ignited and their character is gently shaped. It’s about partnering with educators who understand the importance of these formative years within the context of our specific community. By taking the time to explore the distinct missions of schools like St. Mary’s, Grace Christian, and Shannock Valley Christian Academy, you can make a confident, informed choice that sets your child on a path of joyful discovery and growth, right here at home.

Nearby Cities

Explore private schools in nearby cities