The Best Private Schools in Elliston, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Elliston. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Community School
Independent
Community School is an acclaimed independent school known for its progressive, student-centered approach to education. Serving families throughout the Roanoke Valley, including Elliston, the school emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor education, and individualized academic plans. With a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, students receive exceptional personal attention. The curriculum integrates traditional academics with innovative programs in sustainability, arts, and character development. The school's beautiful 27-acre campus provides extensive outdoor learning opportunities and modern academic facilities.
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North Cross School
Independent
North Cross School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving the Roanoke Valley region, including Elliston. Founded in 1946, the school offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. The campus features modern STEM labs, athletic facilities, and arts centers. North Cross is known for its strong college placement record, with graduates attending top universities nationwide. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside Advanced Placement courses, providing multiple pathways for academic excellence.
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Roanoke Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Richmond
Roanoke Catholic School is a longstanding private institution serving the greater Roanoke area, including Elliston families. As the only Catholic school in the region, it offers comprehensive education from preschool through high school with a strong emphasis on faith formation and academic excellence. The school features modern science labs, technology integration, competitive athletics, and extensive fine arts programs. With dual accreditation from the Virginia Catholic Education Association and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Roanoke Catholic maintains high academic standards while fostering character development and community service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Elliston, Virginia
What are the private school options for families residing in Elliston, Virginia, and are there any schools located directly in the town?
While Elliston itself is a small, unincorporated community, families have access to several highly-regarded private schools in the broader Roanoke Valley area. The most prominent options include North Cross School (in Roanoke), Community School (in Roanoke), and Roanoke Catholic School (in Roanoke). There are no private school campuses physically located within Elliston's boundaries, so commuting to nearby Roanoke, typically a 15-25 minute drive, is standard. These schools actively enroll students from Montgomery County and the Elliston area, providing transportation options or carpool networks for families.
How does tuition at top private schools like North Cross or Roanoke Catholic compare for Elliston, VA residents, and what financial aid options are available?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for these schools ranges approximately from $12,000 to $25,000+ per year, depending on the grade level and institution. As Virginia residents, Elliston families may be eligible for state-sponsored programs like the Virginia Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits Program, which provides scholarships for students from lower-income households to attend private schools. Additionally, each school offers its own need-based financial aid and merit scholarship programs. It's important to note that these costs are in addition to the commute, but many families find the investment aligns with the smaller class sizes, specialized curricula, and college preparatory focus.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Elliston, VA, offer that leverage the local environment?
Schools in the Roanoke Valley capitalize on the region's geography and culture. For example, North Cross School features a comprehensive environmental science program that utilizes the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Trail for fieldwork. Roanoke Catholic integrates its faith-based education with community service partnerships throughout the Roanoke and New River Valleys. Community School emphasizes experiential, place-based learning, often incorporating local history, agriculture, and ecology into its curriculum. These programs provide Elliston students with a education deeply connected to Western Virginia's unique resources, far beyond a standard classroom experience.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Elliston, VA, and when should applications be submitted?
The admission process for schools like North Cross, Community, and Roanoke Catholic generally begins in the fall, one year prior to desired enrollment. Key steps include open houses (often held October-January), application submission by January/February, and student assessments/interviews. Notification of decisions is typically released in March. Given the competitive nature and limited seats, especially in entry-level grades, Elliston families are advised to start research and campus visits 12-18 months in advance. Many schools also have rolling admission for later grades if space permits, but early planning is crucial for securing a spot.
For an Elliston resident, what are the primary considerations when choosing between the local Montgomery County Public Schools and a private school in Roanoke?
The decision often centers on commute, educational philosophy, and specific student needs. Montgomery County Public Schools, like Auburn High School, offer proximity and no tuition. Choosing a private school in Roanoke involves a daily commute but provides distinct alternatives: a secular, college-prep focus (North Cross), a progressive, experiential model (Community School), or a faith-based, structured environment (Roanoke Catholic). Parents should consider if their child would benefit from smaller class sizes, specialized programs (e.g., advanced STEM, specific arts), or a particular religious education that isn't available in the public system. The community aspect is also different, as private schools draw families from a wider regional area versus the local neighborhood school feel in Elliston.
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