The Best Private Schools in Old Forge, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Old Forge. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Scranton Preparatory School
Jesuit Schools Network
Scranton Preparatory School is a premier Jesuit college preparatory school serving the Greater Scranton area, including Old Forge. Founded in 1940, this all-boys Catholic school offers a rigorous academic program with 21 Advanced Placement courses and maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and comprehensive extracurricular programs including championship athletic teams, robotics, and community service opportunities.
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Holy Cross High School
Diocese of Scranton
Holy Cross High School is a co-educational Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Old Forge and surrounding communities. Established in 1964, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum including honors and advanced placement courses, with a strong focus on faith-based education and character development. The campus features modern classrooms, science and computer labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Holy Cross boasts a 99% college acceptance rate and offers diverse extracurricular activities including championship sports teams, music programs, and numerous clubs and organizations.
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All Saints Academy
Diocese of Scranton
All Saints Academy serves as the regional Catholic elementary school for the Scranton area, including Old Forge families. Formed through the consolidation of several parish schools in 2009, it offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and Catholic values. The school features modern technology integration with 1:1 device programs, dedicated STEM labs, and specialized instruction in art, music, and physical education. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the curriculum prepares students for success at area high schools with strong foundational skills in literacy, mathematics, and critical thinking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Old Forge, Pennsylvania
Are there any private schools located directly within Old Forge, PA, or do families typically look to surrounding areas?
There are no major private K-12 schools physically located within the borough of Old Forge itself. Families in Old Forge most commonly consider well-regarded private institutions in the immediate Greater Scranton area, such as Scranton Preparatory School (in Scranton), Holy Cross High School (in Dunmore), and All Saints Academy (in Scranton). These schools are all within a 10-15 minute drive and actively enroll students from Old Forge and other Lackawanna County communities. Transportation is typically the family's responsibility.
What is the range of tuition for private high schools near Old Forge, PA, and are there Pennsylvania-specific financial aid options?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for private high schools in the Scranton/Old Forge area typically ranges from approximately $12,000 to $18,000 annually. In addition to need-based financial aid and merit scholarships offered directly by schools, Pennsylvania residents have access to state programs that can significantly reduce costs. The most notable is the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, which provide scholarships to eligible students. Many local private schools have dedicated staff to help Old Forge families navigate these Pennsylvania-specific applications.
How does the academic focus of Scranton Prep compare to Holy Cross for a student from Old Forge?
While both are excellent college-preparatory institutions serving Old Forge families, they have distinct identities. Scranton Preparatory School, a Jesuit school, emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with a strong focus on writing, critical thinking, and service. Holy Cross High School, a diocesan Catholic school, also provides a strong academic program but often highlights its family-oriented atmosphere and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including competitive sports programs. Visiting both campuses is highly recommended to feel the difference in community culture.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like All Saints Academy for an Old Forge family?
The process for K-8 schools like All Saints Academy typically begins a full year in advance. Open houses are held in the fall (October-November), with application deadlines often in January or February for the following academic year. Key steps include a school tour, submission of an application with records from your child's current school (whether Old Forge Area School District or another), a family interview, and for some grades, a student assessment. Early application is strongly advised, as spaces, particularly in younger grades, can be limited.
For an Old Forge resident, what are the primary considerations when choosing between the Old Forge Area School District and a private school in Scranton?
The decision often hinges on several local factors. The Old Forge Area School District offers a community-centered, tuition-free education with the convenience of proximity. Opting for a private school in Scranton involves tuition but may offer smaller class sizes, a specific religious foundation (Catholic/Jesuit), and sometimes different curricular or extracurricular emphacies (e.g., specific advanced STEM or classics programs). Daily commute, transportation logistics, and the desire for a faith-based environment are major practical considerations for Old Forge families.
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