The Best Private Schools in Waskom, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Waskom. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Loyola College Prep
Independent Catholic School
Loyola College Prep is a highly-regarded independent Catholic school serving students from Northeast Texas and Northwest Louisiana. Founded by the Jesuit tradition, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with 20+ Advanced Placement courses. The campus features modern academic facilities, science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. Students consistently achieve above-average ACT/SAT scores and maintain a 100% college acceptance rate. The school serves families from Waskom and surrounding East Texas communities with a comprehensive extracurricular program including championship athletics, robotics, debate, and extensive arts offerings.
Programs:
Evangel Christian Academy
Evangel Christian Academy
Evangel Christian Academy is a premier Christian private school serving the Ark-La-Tex region, including Waskom families. The academy offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with dual enrollment opportunities through local universities. The 50-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, technology centers, fine arts auditorium, and extensive athletic complexes. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 and emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. ECA graduates consistently earn significant scholarship offers and acceptance to top universities nationwide.
Programs:
First Baptist Church School
First Baptist Church of Shreveport
First Baptist Church School provides exceptional Christian education to students from preschool through high school, serving families throughout the region including Waskom. The school offers a challenging academic program integrated with biblical worldview education. Facilities include modern classrooms, science and computer labs, art studios, music rooms, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes individualized attention with small class sizes and offers comprehensive extracurricular programs including competitive sports, fine arts, and community service opportunities. FBCS maintains strong college placement records with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Waskom, Texas
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Waskom, Texas, and are they located in Waskom itself?
While Waskom is a smaller city, families typically look to nearby Shreveport, Louisiana, for the closest private school options. The most commonly considered schools include Loyola College Prep, Evangel Christian Academy, and First Baptist Church School, all located in Shreveport, just a short drive across the state line. There are no major private school campuses physically located within the Waskom, TX city limits. This cross-state commute is a standard part of the educational landscape for Waskom residents seeking private education.
How does Texas's lack of state income tax and specific programs like the Texas 529 Plan impact saving for private school tuition for Waskom families?
Texas's lack of a state income tax can free up family income that may be directed toward private school tuition. For savings, families in Waskom can utilize the Texas Tuition Promise Fund (the state's 529 plan), which is primarily for college but also allows for tax-free withdrawals of up to $10,000 per year, per beneficiary, for K-12 tuition at private schools. This can be a strategic tool for long-term planning. However, it's important to note that tuition for schools like Loyola or Evangel is typically paid directly to the Louisiana-based institution, so families should confirm payment methods and any potential multi-state considerations.
For a Waskom student interested in a specific academic track, like STEM or fine arts, which nearby private schools offer strong programs?
The private schools near Waskom offer distinct specializations. Loyola College Prep in Shreveport is renowned for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and strong arts programs, including theater and visual arts. Evangel Christian Academy emphasizes a Bible-based curriculum and offers a variety of extracurriculars, including robust athletic programs. First Baptist Church School provides a strong Christian foundation with a focus on core academics. For specialized STEM tracks, families might need to investigate specific course offerings and advanced placement options at each school, as dedicated STEM academies are less common; Loyola's advanced curriculum often serves as the primary avenue for advanced math and sciences in the immediate area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Loyola or Evangel for a family residing in Waskom, TX?
Enrollment timelines for Shreveport-area private schools are critical for Waskom families due to limited seats. Most schools, including Loyola and Evangel, begin accepting applications in the fall or early winter (October-January) for the following academic year. The process usually involves an application form, transcripts, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and a family interview or student assessment. Deadlines are often in February or March. It is crucial to initiate contact with the admissions office well in advance, as being an out-of-state resident (from Texas) does not typically disqualify a student, but early application is key due to competition for placement.
What are the notable advantages and logistical considerations of choosing a private school in Shreveport over Waskom ISD public schools?
The primary advantage of Shreveport private schools for Waskom families often includes smaller class sizes, religious education (if desired), and specialized college-prep curricula. However, key logistical considerations are paramount. This includes a daily commute of 20-30 minutes each way to Shreveport, crossing the Texas-Louisiana state line. Families must consider transportation, after-school activity schedules, and the community aspect, as their child's peer group and school events will be based in Louisiana. Academically, Waskom ISD provides a standard public education, so the decision hinges on whether the perceived benefits of a private, faith-based, or preparatory program outweigh the cost, commute, and cross-state dynamics.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities