The Best Private Schools in Huntington, Utah
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Huntington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Notre Dame Regional Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City
Notre Dame Regional Catholic School serves students from Huntington and throughout Carbon County with a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade Catholic education program. The school emphasizes faith formation alongside rigorous academics, featuring small class sizes with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. Facilities include modern classrooms, science lab, library, and gymnasium. The curriculum integrates STEM education with traditional subjects, complemented by strong arts and athletic programs. Parent satisfaction is high due to the school's nurturing environment and commitment to developing well-rounded students.
Programs:
Pinnacle Canyon Academy
Independent Charter School
Pinnacle Canyon Academy is a tuition-free public charter school serving Huntington and Carbon County students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school maintains a strong college preparatory focus with advanced placement courses and dual enrollment opportunities through local colleges. Academic programs emphasize STEM education with dedicated science and technology labs, while also offering comprehensive arts and athletics. The campus features modern facilities including a performing arts center, competition gym, and extensive library resources. Parent reviews consistently praise the school's academic rigor and dedicated teaching staff.
Programs:
Helper Middle School (Private Program)
Carbon County School District Alternative Program
While primarily a public school, Helper Middle School operates a specialized private alternative program that serves students from Huntington and surrounding communities seeking personalized educational approaches. The program features small learning communities, individualized instruction plans, and strong technology integration with 1:1 device access. Unique offerings include career exploration partnerships with local industries and extensive outdoor education programs utilizing the region's natural resources. The school has gained recognition for its innovative approaches to middle school education and high levels of parent satisfaction with the alternative program's flexibility and student support services.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Huntington, Utah
What are the specific private school options available for families in Huntington, Utah, and what grade levels do they serve?
In Huntington and the immediate surrounding area of Carbon County, the primary private school options include Notre Dame Regional Catholic School (Pre-K through 8th grade) in Price, Pinnacle Canyon Academy (K-12) in Price, and specialized private programs like those at Helper Middle School. Given Huntington's smaller size, most private education is accessed in nearby towns, requiring consideration for transportation. These schools offer an alternative to the public Emery County School District, with Pinnacle Canyon Academy being notable for providing a continuous K-12 private pathway in the region.
How does tuition at private schools near Huntington, UT, compare to state averages, and are there any Utah-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition for private schools in the Huntington/Price area is generally below the national average but consistent with rural Utah costs. For example, annual tuition at local schools often ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 per student. Utah offers the Carson Smith Special Needs Scholarship for eligible students attending private schools. Additionally, many local private schools offer sibling discounts and need-based financial aid. It's important to inquire directly with Notre Dame Regional Catholic School or Pinnacle Canyon Academy about their specific tuition schedules and parish subsidies or institutional scholarships.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Huntington area offer that differentiate them from public schools?
Private schools near Huntington leverage smaller class sizes to offer specialized programs. Pinnacle Canyon Academy emphasizes college preparatory courses and may offer more individualized learning plans. Notre Dame Regional Catholic School provides a faith-based education integrated with standard curriculum, which is a key differentiator. Given the region's focus on outdoor activities, some schools incorporate local geography and science into their programs. However, unlike larger urban private schools, extracurricular options may be more limited, so parents should directly inquire about specific sports, arts, or clubs offered each year.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Huntington, Utah, and are there waitlists?
Enrollment timelines for private schools in Carbon County, such as Pinnacle Canyon Academy and Notre Dame, often begin in early spring (February-March) for the following fall semester. Due to limited capacity, especially in lower grades, it is advisable to apply as soon as the window opens. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, possibly an entrance assessment, and a family interview. While not always as competitive as in major cities, popular grades can have waitlists, so Huntington-area parents are encouraged to plan ahead and contact schools directly, even mid-year, to inquire about availability.
For a family in Huntington, what are the key practical considerations when choosing between a local public school and a private school in Price or Helper?
The decision hinges on several local factors. First is **commute**: Huntington residents face a 15-30 minute drive to private schools in Price or Helper, which impacts daily logistics and extracurricular participation. Second is **educational approach**: Private schools offer specific religious (Notre Dame) or alternative pedagogical environments. Third is **cost**: Weighing tuition against the free public option is significant. Fourth is **community**: Huntington's public schools are central to the town's social fabric, while private schools create a different, often region-wide, community. Finally, consider **program continuity**: If you choose a K-8 private school, planning for high school (either at Pinnacle Canyon or transitioning to public) requires early consideration.