The Best Private Schools in Celina, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Celina. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Prestonwood Christian Academy
Prestonwood Baptist Church
Prestonwood Christian Academy is a highly regarded private Christian school serving the North Texas region, including Celina families. The academy offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with advanced placement courses, extensive STEM programs, and championship-level athletics. With state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes, PCA provides a well-rounded education grounded in Christian values. The school maintains small class sizes and has a strong track record of college admissions to top universities.
Programs:
Legacy Christian Academy
Legacy Christian Academy
Legacy Christian Academy is a premier classical Christian school serving families throughout North Texas, including Celina residents. The school employs the time-tested classical education model combined with modern teaching methodologies. Academic programs include rigorous college preparatory courses, comprehensive STEM education, competitive athletics, and extensive fine arts offerings. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Legacy maintains high academic standards with a focus on character development and spiritual formation.
Programs:
Prince of Peace Christian School
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
Prince of Peace Christian School is an established private institution serving the broader North Texas area, including Celina families seeking quality Christian education. The school offers both traditional college preparatory curriculum and International Baccalaureate programs, providing multiple pathways for academic excellence. Facilities include modern STEM labs, extensive athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. With a focus on developing well-rounded students, POPCS offers robust extracurricular programs including competitive sports, fine arts, and community service opportunities. The school maintains strong college placement records and emphasizes character development.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Celina, Texas
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Celina, Texas, and are they located within the city limits?
While Celina, TX, is a growing community, most of the well-known private schools serving Celina families are located in nearby cities within Collin County. The top options include Prestonwood Christian Academy (in Plano), Legacy Christian Academy (in Frisco), and Prince of Peace Christian School (in Carrollton). These schools are all within a 15-25 minute commute from Celina and offer robust academic and extracurricular programs. There are also smaller local religious academies and homeschool cooperatives within Celina itself. For parents, this means considering commute times and transportation logistics as a key part of the school selection process.
How does tuition for private schools serving Celina, TX, compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Texas residents?
Tuition for the major private schools serving Celina varies. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range from approximately $12,000 to over $20,000 annually for core tuition, with upper grades typically costing more. Importantly, Texas has several state-supported financial aid programs that Celina families can explore. The most notable is the Texas Private School Tax Credit Scholarship program, which provides scholarships for eligible students through nonprofit Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). Additionally, most schools like Prestonwood Christian and Legacy Christian offer their own need-based financial aid and multi-child discounts. It's crucial to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Celina, TX, offer that leverage the local community and culture?
Private schools in the North Texas region serving Celina often design programs that reflect the area's blend of suburban growth, agricultural heritage, and tech industry presence. For instance, several schools have strong STEM and engineering programs partnered with local corporations in Frisco and Plano. Agriscience and FFA chapters are also available at some Christian academies, connecting to Celina's rural roots. Furthermore, competitive athletic programs, particularly in football, baseball, and volleyball, are a hallmark, with many schools competing in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS). Fine arts programs are also robust, with frequent participation in regional competitions and events in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools like Prestonwood Christian Academy for a family moving to Celina?
The enrollment process for top private schools near Celina is highly structured and often begins over a year in advance. For schools like Prestonwood Christian Academy, the application window for the following academic year typically opens in August or September, with deadlines for priority consideration by January or February. The process usually includes a completed application, student and parent interviews, academic records, teacher recommendations, and standardized testing. For families newly moving to Celina, it's essential to contact admissions offices immediately, as some schools may have waitlists, particularly for specific grades. Many schools also host fall open houses; attending these is a critical first step for Celina parents to understand the school's culture and requirements.
For families in Celina, TX, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Celina ISD) with nearby private school options?
The decision between Celina Independent School District (ISD) and a private school involves several local factors. Celina ISD is a highly-rated, fast-growing public district known for its strong sense of community, excellent athletics, and new facilities driven by the area's expansion. Choosing a private school often centers on desire for a specific religious education (typically Christian), smaller class sizes, and alternative curricular approaches. For college preparedness, both pathways are strong, but private schools may offer more personalized college counseling. A major practical consideration is commute: Celina ISD provides neighborhood schools, while private options require daily driving to neighboring cities. Ultimately, the choice hinges on educational philosophy, budget for tuition, and the value placed on a faith-based environment versus the community-centric public system.