The Best Private Schools in Windber, Pennsylvania
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Windber. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Somerset Christian School
Independent Christian School
Somerset Christian School is a highly-rated private Christian school located approximately 12 miles from Windber in Somerset. The school offers a comprehensive K-12 education with a strong college preparatory curriculum rooted in biblical worldview. Academic programs include Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges, and specialized programs in STEM and fine arts. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains excellent academic outcomes and high parent satisfaction ratings, serving families throughout Somerset County including Windber.
Programs:
Bishop McCort Catholic High School
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown
Bishop McCort Catholic High School is a highly-regarded college preparatory school located just 10 miles from Windber in Johnstown. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and competitive athletic teams. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. Facilities include modern science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. The school serves students from Windber and surrounding communities with transportation options available.
Programs:
All Saints Catholic School
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown
All Saints Catholic School serves students from Windber and the broader Cambria County area, located approximately 15 miles away in Cresson. The school provides a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with strong emphasis on faith formation, academic excellence, and character development. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, literacy programs, and technology integration with 1:1 device access in upper grades. The school features modern facilities, dedicated art and music programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. Parent satisfaction is high with particular praise for the nurturing environment and strong community feel.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Windber, Pennsylvania
What are the main private school options available for families in Windber, Pennsylvania, and what grade levels do they serve?
Windber, PA, and its immediate surrounding area in Somerset and Cambria Counties offer a few key private school options. The most prominent are Bishop McCort Catholic High School (grades 9-12) in nearby Johnstown, All Saints Catholic School (pre-K through 8th grade) in Boswell, and Somerset Christian School (pre-K through 12th grade) in Somerset. While Windber itself has a limited number of private campuses, these nearby schools are common choices for Windber families seeking faith-based or independent education. Transportation considerations are important, as these schools may require a daily commute.
How does tuition for private schools in the Windber, PA, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Windber region is generally below the Pennsylvania state average for private education, reflecting the area's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition ranges from approximately $4,000 to $10,000 annually, depending on the school and grade level. Pennsylvania offers several state-specific aid programs that Windber families can utilize, such as the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, which provide scholarships for eligible students. Additionally, all the local private schools offer need-based financial aid, parish subsidies for Catholic families, and multi-child discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Windber, PA, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools near Windber often provide specialized programs rooted in their institutional missions. Bishop McCort Catholic High School is known for its strong college-prep curriculum and competitive athletic programs in the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference. Somerset Christian School offers a biblically-integrated curriculum and may have smaller class sizes than surrounding public districts. All Saints Catholic School provides a structured, faith-based foundation in elementary and middle school years. A common differentiator is the emphasis on religious education and character formation, which is a primary reason many Windber-area families choose these schools.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools serving Windber, Pennsylvania, families?
The enrollment process for private schools in the Windber area usually begins in the winter (January-February) for the following academic year. It's highly recommended to contact schools directly for open house dates and application deadlines. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. For Catholic schools, baptismal certificates are required. Due to limited seats, especially in popular elementary grades, early application is advised. Many schools also have priority enrollment periods for siblings of current students and active parishioners.
For a family in Windber, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public school district and a private school in the area?
The decision often hinges on several Windber-specific factors. Windber Area School District is a well-regarded public district, so families consider whether the private school's value proposition—specifically religious education, potentially smaller class sizes, or a particular pedagogical approach—justifies the tuition and commute. Transportation is a practical concern, as Windber Area School District provides busing, while private schools may not. The community aspect is also significant; private schools can offer a tight-knit, values-aligned community, which some families prefer. Ultimately, it involves weighing educational philosophy, cost, logistical feasibility, and the desired social environment for the child within the context of the rural Somerset County landscape.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities