The Best Private Schools in Orange, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Orange. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica School
Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Beaumont
St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving the Orange and greater Beaumont area. Established in 1949, the school provides comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning, academic excellence, and character development. The school features modern facilities, dedicated faculty with low student-teacher ratios, and a robust curriculum that includes advanced STEM programs, fine arts, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and exceptional academic preparation for high school.
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The Montessori School of Beaumont
American Montessori Society
The Montessori School of Beaumont has been serving families from Orange and surrounding communities since 1994. As an American Montessori Society accredited school, it offers authentic Montessori education for children ages 18 months through 12 years. The school features carefully prepared learning environments, certified Montessori teachers, and a child-centered approach that fosters independence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. The curriculum includes practical life skills, sensorial development, language arts, mathematics, cultural studies, and specialized enrichment programs. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's individualized approach and the strong academic foundation it provides.
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Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School
Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Beaumont
Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School is the premier Catholic high school serving Orange and the Southeast Texas region. Founded in 1959, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum including International Baccalaureate programs, Advanced Placement courses, and comprehensive extracurricular activities. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. With a focus on developing well-rounded students, MKCHS maintains strong academic results with graduates consistently gaining admission to top universities. The school community is known for its strong parent involvement and commitment to Catholic values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Orange, Texas
What are the main private school options available for families in Orange, Texas, and what grade levels do they serve?
In Orange, Texas, and the immediate surrounding area, the primary private school options include St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica School (Pre-K through 8th grade), Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School (9th through 12th grade), and The Montessori School of Beaumont, which is located in nearby Beaumont but serves many Orange County families (typically ages 3 through 12). It's important to note that Orange has a limited number of private schools within its city limits, so many families also consider options in neighboring communities like Beaumont or Vidor. St. Anthony and Monsignor Kelly are part of the Diocese of Beaumont's Catholic school system, providing a continuous faith-based education from early childhood through high school graduation.
How does tuition for private schools in the Orange, TX, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Orange area is generally at or slightly below the Texas state average for similar institutions, partly reflecting the local cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, annual tuition at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica School is approximately $5,000-$7,000, while Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School is roughly $9,000-$11,000. Most schools offer multi-child discounts for families. Financial aid is primarily available through need-based scholarships from the individual schools and the Diocese of Beaumont. Additionally, Texas has the **Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC)** recognized schools, making them eligible for state programs like the **Texas Tuition Equalization Grant** for high school students, though eligibility can be specific. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school's financial office about parish subsidies, merit scholarships, and payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Orange, Texas, offer that leverage the local community or industry?
Private schools in the Orange area often integrate the region's strong maritime, petrochemical, and historical heritage into their programs. Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School, for instance, offers robust STEM curricula with partnerships that can connect to the local industrial sector for internships or project-based learning. Given Orange's location on the Sabine River and near the Port of Orange, environmental science and maritime studies are natural points of emphasis. Furthermore, schools like St. Anthony incorporate Texas and local history deeply into their social studies programs, highlighting Orange's role in Texas history and the "Gateway to Texas" moniker. Extracurricularly, many schools have strong athletic rivalries within the Southeast Texas private school league and may offer programs like agriculture or robotics that align with regional interests.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Orange, Texas, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for private schools in Orange, such as St. Anthony and Monsignor Kelly, typically begins in January or February for the following academic year. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing previous academic records, a pastoral reference (for Catholic schools), and often a family interview or student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall. Due to the limited number of seats, especially in popular early grades, it is common for these schools to have waitlists, particularly at St. Anthony for Kindergarten. Siblings of current students and active parishioners at supporting Catholic churches often receive priority. It is highly recommended for Orange families to initiate inquiries by November to ensure they meet all deadlines and requirements.
For a family in Orange, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district (West Orange-Cove CISD) and a private school?
The decision often centers on educational philosophy, class size, religious formation, and specific student needs. Orange's public schools, West Orange-Cove CISD, offer a no-tuition option with a wide range of programs, including advanced placement and UIL athletics. Private schools in Orange provide smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students), a structured environment with an emphasis on values and discipline, and a consistent faith-based curriculum for those seeking it. A practical consideration is transportation; while WCISD provides busing, private school families must arrange their own transport. Furthermore, private schools like Monsignor Kelly offer a college-preparatory track with a near-100% graduation and college acceptance rate, which can be a deciding factor. Many Orange families value the close-knit community and personalized attention of the local private schools, weighing it against the broader resources and extracurricular diversity of the larger public district.