The Best Private Schools in Rice, Washington
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Rice. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. George's School
Independent
St. George's School is a highly regarded independent college preparatory school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located in Spokane, it serves families throughout Stevens County including the Rice area. The school features a rigorous academic program with 100% college acceptance rate, small class sizes averaging 14 students, and extensive extracurricular opportunities including championship athletics, robotics, and performing arts. The 120-acre campus includes state-of-the-art science labs, athletic facilities, and technology resources.
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Riverfront Academy
Private Independent
Riverfront Academy offers a unique educational approach combining traditional academics with experiential learning. Serving students from the Rice area and throughout Eastern Washington, the school emphasizes hands-on projects, outdoor education, and technology integration. The curriculum is tailored to individual student needs with small class sizes and personalized attention. Facilities include modern classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and technology labs. The school maintains strong parent satisfaction with its innovative approach to education.
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Morning Star Christian Academy
Christian School Association
Morning Star Christian Academy provides a comprehensive Christian education serving families from Rice and surrounding communities. The school offers a balanced curriculum integrating faith-based values with strong academic preparation. Programs include college preparatory courses, fine arts, competitive athletics, and community service initiatives. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. The school is known for its strong community atmosphere and commitment to character development alongside academic excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Rice, Washington
What are the primary private school options available for families in Rice, Washington, and what are their educational philosophies?
Rice, Washington, offers a small but distinct selection of private schools, each with a unique focus. St. George's School is a well-regarded independent college-preparatory school known for its rigorous academics and holistic approach. Riverfront Academy typically emphasizes experiential and project-based learning, often with smaller class sizes. Morning Star Christian Academy provides a faith-based education integrating religious principles with a standard academic curriculum. Given Rice's size, these schools represent the core of private education, and visiting each is crucial to understanding which philosophy aligns with your child's needs.
How does tuition for private schools in Rice, WA, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in Rice generally aligns with or slightly falls below the Washington state average for similar institutions, partly due to the town's lower cost of living compared to major metro areas. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 annually. All major schools in Rice, including St. George's, Riverfront Academy, and Morning Star Christian, offer need-based financial aid. Additionally, Washington state offers the "Opportunity Scholarship" for eligible families, and some schools have local scholarship funds supported by alumni and community donors. It's essential to apply for financial aid early, as funds can be limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Rice, Washington, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in Rice capitalize on the region's natural beauty and community assets. Riverfront Academy often incorporates the nearby river and forests into its science and outdoor education programs. St. George's School may offer specialized courses or clubs in environmental science, agriculture, or local history tied to the Columbia Basin region. Morning Star Christian Academy might organize community service projects deeply connected to Rice and surrounding towns. These localized programs provide students with a meaningful connection to their community and unique learning opportunities not always found in larger urban private schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Rice, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Rice private schools usually begins in the fall, with application deadlines between January and February for the following academic year. St. George's School often has the most competitive timeline, requiring entrance assessments and family interviews. Riverfront Academy and Morning Star Christian Academy may have rolling admissions but encourage early application due to limited seats. Given the small size of Rice schools, popular grades (especially kindergarten, 6th, and 9th) can develop waitlists by spring. It's highly recommended to attend open houses (typically held in October-November) and submit applications well before the deadline.
For families in Rice, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public school district and a private school?
The decision in Rice often centers on class size, specialized programming, and educational approach. Rice Public Schools provide a solid, tuition-free education with standardized programs. In contrast, private schools offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), more individualized attention, and distinct curricular philosophies (college-prep, experiential, or faith-based). Transportation can be a factor, as private schools in Rice may not provide district bus service. For families seeking a specific religious education or a more rigorous academic track than the public school offers, the private options in Rice present a compelling alternative, albeit with a financial commitment.
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