The Best Private Schools in Clinton, Tennessee
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Clinton. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Webb School of Knoxville
Independent
Webb School of Knoxville is a highly respected coeducational college preparatory school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located approximately 30 minutes from Clinton, it offers a rigorous academic program with both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate options. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Webb emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, offering robust extracurricular programs in arts, athletics, and community service.
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St. Mary's School
Catholic Diocese of Knoxville
St. Mary's School is a premier Catholic private school located in nearby Oak Ridge, approximately 15 minutes from Clinton. Serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, the school provides a faith-based education integrated with strong academic programming. The curriculum emphasizes core subjects supplemented by specialized instruction in Spanish, music, art, and physical education. The school features modern classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, and comprehensive athletic facilities. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent teacher-student relationships.
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Clayton-Bradley Academy
Independent
Clayton-Bradley Academy is an innovative private school located in Maryville, approximately 25 minutes from Clinton. Serving students from preschool through high school, the school specializes in STEM education with a project-based learning approach. The campus features modern science and technology labs, makerspaces, and collaborative learning environments. The curriculum integrates traditional academics with hands-on technology education, robotics, and engineering concepts. Despite being newer than traditional private schools, it has quickly gained recognition for its forward-thinking approach to education and strong college preparatory program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Clinton, Tennessee
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Clinton, Tennessee, and are they located directly in Clinton or in nearby areas?
While Clinton itself has a limited number of standalone private schools, families commonly look to highly-regarded institutions in the greater Knoxville region. The most prominent options include Webb School of Knoxville in Knoxville (approx. 20-minute drive), St. Mary's School in Oak Ridge (approx. 15-minute drive), and Clayton-Bradley Academy in Maryville (approx. 30-minute drive). These schools actively draw students from Clinton and Anderson County. It's important for Clinton parents to factor in commute times and transportation logistics when considering these top-tier private schools.
How does tuition for private schools in the Clinton, TN, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Clinton, TN, is generally competitive with or slightly above the Tennessee private school average. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $12,000 to $25,000+ for day schools, varying by grade level and institution. Tennessee offers the Education Savings Account (ESA) program, which can provide state-funded assistance to eligible families for private school tuition. Additionally, schools like Webb and St. Mary's have substantial need-based financial aid and merit scholarship programs. It's crucial to apply for financial aid concurrently with admission, as deadlines are often early in the calendar year.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Clinton, TN, students offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Clinton area offer specialized programs that may not be as readily available in the public system. For example, Webb School of Knoxville is renowned for its comprehensive college preparatory curriculum and extensive Advanced Placement (AP) offerings. St. Mary's School provides a strong STEM-focused environment with project-based learning. Clayton-Bradley Academy emphasizes a unique "STEAM" (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) model and innovation labs. These schools often feature smaller class sizes, specialized college counseling, and distinctive offerings like robotics teams, intensive arts programs, or global studies initiatives that attract families from Clinton.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Clinton, Tennessee, and when should parents start?
The admission process for competitive private schools near Clinton operates on an early timeline. Parents should ideally begin research 12-18 months before the desired enrollment date. Key steps include: attending open houses (often in the fall), submitting applications between October and January, completing student assessments and interviews (winter), and receiving decisions in March. Rolling admission may be available for later applicants, but spaces fill quickly. Given that many families from Clinton, Oak Ridge, and Knoxville are vying for limited spots, starting early, especially for middle or high school entry, is strongly advised to ensure consideration.
For a family living in Clinton, what are the key considerations when deciding between the Anderson County public school system and a private school in the region?
The decision hinges on several Clinton-specific factors. Anderson County public schools provide a no-tuition option with proximity, but families often consider private alternatives for more individualized attention, specialized academic tracks, or different values-based education. Key considerations include: the daily commute to a private school in Knoxville, Oak Ridge, or Maryville; the financial investment versus utilizing the well-funded public system; and the specific educational philosophy sought (e.g., rigorous college prep, STEAM focus). Many Clinton families find value in the smaller, close-knit community of a private school, while others prioritize the convenience and robust extracurriculars of the larger public high schools. Visiting both types of schools is essential.
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