The Best Private Schools in Camden, West Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Camden. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School
Parkersburg Catholic Schools
Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School is part of the comprehensive Parkersburg Catholic Schools system, serving students from pre-K through 12th grade. Located approximately 30 minutes from Camden, this established Catholic institution offers a rigorous academic program rooted in faith-based education. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong emphasis on character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and dedicated spaces for art and music programs. The curriculum integrates traditional academic subjects with technology education and extracurricular activities including sports, drama, and community service programs.
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Notre Dame High School
Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
Notre Dame High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students from multiple counties including Lewis County where Camden is located. With a strong academic reputation, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, extensive extracurricular programs, and competitive athletics. The campus features modern academic facilities, science and computer labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes community service, leadership development, and preparing students for success in higher education. Transportation options are available for students from surrounding areas.
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St. Joseph's School
Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
St. Joseph's School provides a comprehensive Catholic education for students from pre-K through 8th grade, serving families throughout the region. While located further from Camden, the school is noted for its strong academic program, dedicated faculty, and supportive community environment. The curriculum emphasizes core academic subjects while integrating technology, religious education, and character development. The school features well-equipped classrooms, a library/media center, gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Extracurricular activities include sports teams, music programs, and various clubs. The school maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized attention for each student.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Camden, West Virginia
What are the private school options for families living in Camden, West Virginia, and are there any schools directly in Camden?
There are no private schools physically located within the town limits of Camden itself. However, families in Camden typically look to nearby communities for excellent private, faith-based education. The top options in the immediate region include Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School and Notre Dame High School in Parkersburg, and St. Joseph's School in nearby Marietta, Ohio. These schools are within a reasonable commuting distance for Camden residents and represent the primary private school choices, all of which are Catholic-affiliated institutions.
How does tuition at private schools like Parkersburg Catholic or Notre Dame High compare to the West Virginia state average, and what financial aid is available?
Tuition for schools like Parkersburg Catholic Elementary and Notre Dame High School is generally below the national private school average but aligns with regional norms in West Virginia. For the 2023-2024 academic year, elementary tuition often ranges from $4,000-$6,000 annually, while high school can be $7,000-$9,000. Critically, these schools offer substantial financial support. All three major schools (including St. Joseph's) have active parish subsidy programs for member families, need-based scholarships, and participate in the West Virginia Hope Scholarship program. This state-funded program provides eligible students leaving the public system with an Education Savings Account, which can be applied directly to private school tuition.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools serving Camden, WV, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The private schools accessible to Camden families emphasize a faith-integrated curriculum, strong discipline, and community values. Academically, Notre Dame High School offers a notable college-prep program with a high percentage of graduates attending four-year universities. Parkersburg Catholic Elementary provides a strong foundation with dedicated STEM and arts programs. A key differentiator is the interscholastic environment; students from these small schools often compete in the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference (OVAC), providing robust athletic opportunities. Furthermore, their smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students) allow for more individualized attention than what might be available in larger regional public schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for schools like Parkersburg Catholic or St. Joseph's for a family moving to Camden?
The enrollment process for these parochial schools is generally rolling, but priority is given to existing families and registered parishioners by early spring (March/April) for the following fall. For new families in Camden, it is recommended to initiate contact with the school admissions office and the affiliated parish as soon as possible, even mid-year. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, baptismal certificate (for Catholic families), and a family interview. Due to the limited seats in each grade, especially in the elementary schools, early inquiry is crucial. Many schools also host open houses in the winter and spring for prospective families.
For a Camden resident, what are the practical considerations of choosing a private school in Parkersburg, WV, versus St. Joseph's in Marietta, OH?
This is a key logistical decision for Camden families. Choosing Parkersburg Catholic/Notre Dame in West Virginia simplifies matters regarding state scholarship programs like the Hope Scholarship. The commute west to Parkersburg is straightforward via US-50. Opting for St. Joseph's in Marietta, Ohio, involves crossing state lines, which may have implications for state-based financial aid and requires familiarity with Ohio's specific educational regulations. However, some families choose St. Joseph's for its specific program offerings or parish affiliation. The commute east to Marietta is also convenient. Ultimately, the decision often comes down to parish membership, the specific grade levels needed, and personal preference for the school community, as both provide high-quality, faith-based education within a 30-minute drive of Camden.
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