The Best Private Schools in Star, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Star. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Good Shepherd Episcopal School
Episcopal Diocese of Texas
Good Shepherd Episcopal School is a highly-regarded private school serving the East Texas region, including Star. Founded in 1980, the school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence within a Christian environment. The school features a robust STEAM program, extensive fine arts curriculum, and small class sizes that ensure personalized attention. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. The school is known for its strong community atmosphere and consistently high academic achievement.
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All Saints Episcopal School
All Saints Episcopal School
All Saints Episcopal School is a premier private institution serving the broader East Texas area, including Star families. Established in 1968, the school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade education with an International Baccalaureate program and rigorous college preparatory curriculum. The 147-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science and technology labs, performing arts centers, athletic complexes, and modern classroom buildings. The school emphasizes character development, academic excellence, and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including championship athletic programs and outstanding fine arts.
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The Brook Hill School
The Brook Hill School
The Brook Hill School is a distinguished Christian college preparatory school located in nearby Bullard, serving students from Star and surrounding communities. Founded in 1996, the school offers day and boarding programs for Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong focus on academic excellence and character development. The campus features modern academic buildings, athletic facilities, fine arts centers, and dormitories. Brook Hill is known for its rigorous academic program, with graduates consistently attending top universities. The school offers extensive athletic programs, fine arts opportunities, and international student programs, creating a diverse and dynamic learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Star, Texas
What are the primary private school options available for families in and around Star, Texas?
While Star itself is a small, rural community, families in the area have access to several well-regarded private schools in nearby cities, creating a "hub" model. The most prominent are The Brook Hill School (a non-denominational Christian day and boarding school in Bullard, about 45 minutes away), All Saints Episcopal School (a Pre-K through 12th Episcopal school in Tyler, roughly 50 minutes away), and Good Shepherd Episcopal School (a Pre-K through 8th school also in Tyler). Many Star families commute for these options. There are also smaller local church-affiliated academies. The choice often depends on the desired grade level, religious affiliation, and willingness to commute to Smith or Cherokee counties.
How does tuition for private schools serving Star, Texas, compare to the state average, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for the major schools accessible to Star residents is generally at or above the Texas private school average, reflecting their comprehensive programs and facilities. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000-$12,000 for lower grades to $15,000-$25,000+ for upper grades at schools like Brook Hill and All Saints. Texas has limited state-level voucher or tax-credit programs, but most of these schools offer substantial need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Some schools also offer multi-child discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Star, Texas, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Schools in this region often leverage their independent status and religious affiliations for unique offerings. The Brook Hill School, for instance, has a strong emphasis on global education with study abroad programs and a renowned fine arts department. All Saints Episcopal School offers a robust college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement (AP) options and a 1:1 technology program. A key differentiator for many families is the integration of faith-based values and smaller class sizes, which can be appealing compared to the larger rural public school districts. Additionally, many offer specialized athletics (like lacrosse or equestrian) not always available in public ISDs.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools that Star, Texas families consider?
The process for competitive schools like Brook Hill and All Saints begins early, often a full year in advance. Admissions typically open in August or September for the following fall. Key steps include: 1) Attending an open house (often in the fall), 2) Submitting an application by January or February priority deadlines, 3) Student assessment/testing and family interviews (winter/early spring), and 4) Notification of acceptance in March or April. Rolling admissions may continue if spaces remain. For Star families, planning for the significant commute is a critical part of the process, and many schools can help connect you with carpool networks from the area.
For a family in Star, Texas, what are the main considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school a considerable drive away?
This decision hinges on several location-specific factors. The primary trade-off is between the convenience and community integration of the local public school (like Westwood ISD or a neighboring district) versus the specialized academics, values, and resources of a distant private school. Considerations include: the daily commute time (45-60+ minutes each way) and its impact on family life and student activities, the annual financial cost of tuition and transportation, and the desired educational environment (e.g., smaller class sizes, specific religious instruction). Many families find the private school commitment worthwhile for consistent college-prep rigor or a specific faith-based foundation, but it requires significant logistical and financial planning unique to living in a rural community like Star.