The Best Private Schools in Four States, West Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Four States. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Morgantown Learning Academy
Independent Private School
Morgantown Learning Academy is a highly-regarded private school located approximately 20 minutes from Four States, serving the broader North Central West Virginia region. The school offers a comprehensive Montessori-based education with strong emphasis on individualized learning and character development. Features include small class sizes, certified Montessori teachers, and extensive STEAM programming. The campus includes modern classrooms, dedicated science labs, and outdoor learning spaces. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment and strong academic foundation preparation.
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St. Francis Central Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
St. Francis Central Catholic School is a premier Catholic private school serving the Morgantown and surrounding areas, including Four States. The school provides a rigorous classical education rooted in Catholic tradition with excellent college preparation outcomes. Facilities include state-of-the-art technology labs, comprehensive athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school maintains small student-teacher ratios and offers extensive extracurricular activities including competitive sports, music programs, and community service opportunities. High parent satisfaction stems from the school's strong moral foundation and academic excellence.
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University High School
Monongalia County Schools (Private Division)
University High School, while technically a public magnet school, operates as a selective-admission institution that serves as a premier educational option for families in the Four States area seeking private-school caliber education. The school features an intensive college-preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and a developing STEM academy. The modern campus includes advanced science laboratories, performing arts center, and comprehensive athletic facilities. The school consistently achieves high test scores and college acceptance rates, making it a top choice for academically-focused families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Four States, West Virginia
What are the primary private school options serving families in the Four States, WV area, and what are their educational approaches?
The Four States area is primarily served by a few notable private institutions, though many families also consider schools in nearby Morgantown. Locally, St. Francis Central Catholic School in Morgantown offers a faith-based, K-12 education rooted in Catholic values. University High School, also in Morgantown, is a prestigious college-preparatory school known for its rigorous academics. While not in Four States proper, Morgantown Learning Academy provides a more individualized, supportive environment. For Four States residents, these schools represent the core private options, with transportation often being a key logistical consideration due to the short commute to Morgantown.
How does tuition for private schools in the Four States/Morgantown area compare to statewide averages, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition in the Morgantown-area schools accessible to Four States families is generally at or above the West Virginia private school average, reflecting the university community's influence. For the 2023-24 school year, tuition ranges from approximately $6,000 to $12,000+ annually depending on the school and grade level. Critically, West Virginia offers the Hope Scholarship Program, an education savings account for students exiting public school, which can be used for private school tuition. Additionally, schools like St. Francis and University High have need-based financial aid and parish subsidy programs. It's essential for Four States parents to apply for both state and institutional aid early.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Four States, WV?
Leveraging proximity to West Virginia University, private schools offer unique programs. University High School features advanced STEM courses, extensive AP offerings, and research partnerships. St. Francis Central Catholic provides strong arts programs and character education integrated with faith. A distinctive aspect for Four States students is the potential for dual-enrollment opportunities at WVU through these private schools, allowing high schoolers to earn college credit. Morgantown Learning Academy emphasizes small-group instruction and learning support. The collegiate environment of Morgantown enriches these schools with access to university libraries, speakers, and cultural events not typically available in more rural parts of the state.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Four States community?
The enrollment process for schools like St. Francis Central Catholic and University High School begins almost a full year in advance. Priority applications and financial aid deadlines often fall between January and March for the following fall semester. Given the competitive nature, especially for University High, Four States families are advised to attend open houses in the fall, submit applications by winter, and complete entrance assessments/interviews promptly. Rolling admissions may be available at some schools if spots remain. A key step for Four States residents is to inquire specifically about transportation or carpool networks, as this is a common logistical consideration for families in your area.
For a family in Four States, what are the key considerations when deciding between a local public school and a private school in Morgantown?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. Four States public schools are part of the Monongalia County system, which is generally well-regarded in WV. Choosing a private school in Morgantown involves weighing the daily commute against perceived benefits like smaller class sizes, specialized curricula (e.g., college-prep or faith-based), and a different peer environment. The Hope Scholarship can significantly offset tuition costs. Families should consider if their child would benefit from the specific programs (like advanced STEM at University High) enough to justify the travel. Visiting both the local public school and the private options is crucial to feel the difference in community and academic climate.
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