The Best Private Schools in Given, West Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Given. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Joseph School
Catholic Schools of West Virginia
St. Joseph School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving the Eastern Panhandle region including Given. Founded in 1955, the school offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning and academic excellence. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a well-rounded curriculum that includes STEM education, fine arts, and competitive sports programs. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, safe learning environment, and strong community values that prepare students for high school and beyond.
Programs:
Faith Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Faith Christian Academy is an accredited private Christian school serving the Given area and surrounding communities. Established in 1999, the school provides college-preparatory education from kindergarten through 12th grade with a comprehensive biblical worldview integrated throughout the curriculum. The academy features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and robust extracurricular programs including fine arts, music, and competitive sports. The school is known for its strong academic standards, dedicated Christian faculty, and family-oriented community that emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement.
Programs:
Washington High School
Independent Private School
Washington High School is a respected private college preparatory school serving students from Given and the broader Eastern Panhandle region. Founded in 2006, the school offers a rigorous academic program for grades 9-12 with small class sizes and personalized attention. The curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and extensive fine arts opportunities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, leadership development, and community service while preparing students for competitive college admissions. Facilities include modern science laboratories, technology-integrated classrooms, and athletic facilities supporting a variety of sports and extracurricular activities.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Given, West Virginia
What are the primary private school options available for K-12 education in Given, West Virginia, and what are their core affiliations?
In Given, WV, families have three primary private school options. St. Joseph School is a Catholic, faith-based institution typically serving grades K-8, offering a curriculum integrated with religious education. Faith Christian Academy is an independent Christian school, often providing education from elementary through high school with an evangelical Protestant perspective. Washington High School is a private, non-denominational high school. It's important for parents to contact each school directly, as grade offerings can change. Given's rural setting means these are the central dedicated private institutions, with some families also considering options in neighboring counties for a broader selection.
How does tuition at private schools in Given, WV, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at Given's private schools is generally below the national private school average, reflecting West Virginia's lower cost of living, but can be a significant commitment for local families. Annual tuition can range from approximately $4,000 to $8,000 depending on the school and grade level. Notably, West Virginia's Hope Scholarship Program, an education savings account (ESA), provides state-funded financial assistance to eligible students leaving the public system for private alternatives, including those in Given. Additionally, schools like St. Joseph and Faith Christian Academy often have limited need-based scholarships, parish subsidies (for affiliated members), or multi-child discounts. Early discussion with school financial officers is crucial.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in Given, West Virginia, offer that leverage the local environment or community?
Private schools in Given, WV, often incorporate the region's culture and environment into their programs. Given its Appalachian setting, schools may emphasize agricultural science, local history, and environmental studies. Faith-based schools integrate community service projects that address local needs. Due to smaller class sizes, a common feature in Given's private schools, programs can be highly personalized, with potential for strong arts or music instruction despite the rural setting. Washington High School might offer dual-enrollment or online AP courses to supplement its curriculum, a vital resource in an area with fewer in-person advanced offerings. It's best to inquire directly about specific clubs, sports (like basketball, a regional staple), and partnerships with local organizations.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Given, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Given's private schools usually begins in the winter or early spring (January-March) for the following academic year. Due to the limited number of seats, especially in popular grades, early inquiry is strongly advised. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. For faith-based schools, a statement of faith or pastor's reference may be required. While waitlists are not always as lengthy as in urban areas, they can form for specific entry grades like kindergarten or 9th grade at Washington High School. Sibling and parishioner (for St. Joseph) priority is common.
For families in Given, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public school system and a private school?
The decision in Given hinges on several local factors. Private schools offer smaller, often faith-based environments with consistent class sizes, which can be appealing given the challenges some rural West Virginia public schools face with funding and resource variability. The private option provides a specific religious or values-based education if desired. Conversely, Given's public schools are tuition-free, provide mandated special education services, and may offer more extensive transportation networks. The Hope Scholarship can offset private tuition costs significantly. Parents should consider the importance of religious instruction, desired class size, specific academic or extracurricular needs of their child, and the logistical and financial implications of commuting to Given's centralized private options.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities