The Best Private Schools in Shinnston, West Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Shinnston. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Notre Dame High School
Catholic Schools of Greater Clarksburg
Notre Dame High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the Greater Clarksburg area, including Shinnston. With over six decades of educational excellence, the school offers a rigorous academic program featuring Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and extensive extracurricular activities. The school maintains small class sizes with a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention. Facilities include modern science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and athletic complexes. The school has a strong track record of college acceptance with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
Programs:
St. Mary's Grade School
Catholic Schools of Greater Clarksburg
St. Mary's Grade School provides exceptional private education for students from preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout Harrison County including Shinnston. The school combines strong academic fundamentals with Catholic values in a nurturing environment. Features include technology-integrated classrooms, comprehensive music and arts programs, and dedicated faculty with an average of 15+ years teaching experience. The school offers extended care programs and numerous extracurricular activities. Parents consistently praise the school's community atmosphere and academic preparation for high school.
Programs:
St. Peter's School
Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
St. Peter's School in Fairmont serves students from preschool through 8th grade and attracts families from surrounding communities including Shinnston. The school provides a comprehensive education grounded in Catholic traditions while emphasizing 21st-century learning skills. The curriculum includes robust technology integration, Spanish language instruction, and hands-on science programs. The school features modern facilities, including computer labs, library resources, and gymnasium facilities for athletic programs. Known for its strong parent involvement and community spirit, St. Peter's prepares students academically and spiritually for future success.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Shinnston, West Virginia
What are the private school options for K-12 education in Shinnston, West Virginia, and how do they differ?
Shinnston, WV, offers a limited but distinct set of private, faith-based schools. For elementary education, families can consider St. Mary's Grade School (typically K-8) and St. Peter's School. For high school, Notre Dame High School in nearby Clarksburg serves the region, including Shinnston students. The primary difference is in their specific Catholic parish affiliations and campus environments. St. Mary's and St. Peter's provide a foundational parochial education, while Notre Dame offers a comprehensive 9-12 experience with college preparatory academics and athletics. Due to the limited number, many Shinnston families also look at private options in the broader Harrison County area.
How does tuition at Shinnston's private Catholic schools compare to the West Virginia state average, and what financial aid is available?
Tuition at schools like St. Mary's Grade School and St. Peter's School is generally below the national private school average but is a significant consideration for many West Virginia families. Specific rates vary by parish and whether a family is registered, contributing parishioners, who often receive a substantially reduced rate. The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston offers need-based financial assistance, such as the Bishop's Scholarship Fund, and individual schools may have parish-sponsored aid. For Notre Dame High School, tuition is higher, but they offer merit scholarships, diocesan aid, and payment plans. It's crucial to contact each school's office directly for the most current tuition schedules and aid applications.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Shinnston-area private schools offer that leverage the local community?
Shinnston's private schools integrate faith, community service, and local heritage into their programs. Academically, they follow a standards-based curriculum enhanced with Catholic teachings. A notable aspect is their emphasis on community involvement; students often participate in local events, volunteer at Shinnston-area charities, and learn about regional history. While they may not have the vast array of specialized programs found in larger cities, they offer strong foundational academics, music, and art. Notre Dame High School provides more options, including advanced placement courses and a wider range of sports, drawing students from across Harrison County, including Shinnston.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like St. Mary's or St. Peter's in Shinnston, WV?
Enrollment for Shinnston's private elementary schools typically begins in early spring (February-March) for the following academic year. The process usually involves submitting an application, providing birth and baptismal certificates (for Catholic families), immunization records, and recent report cards. A family interview or meeting with the principal is common. Priority is often given to siblings of current students and active parishioners of the supporting church. Due to small class sizes, spots can be limited, so early inquiry is recommended. For Notre Dame High School, the process for 8th graders begins with open houses in the fall, with application deadlines usually in the winter.
For a family in Shinnston, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools and the available private options?
The decision hinges on several Shinnston-specific factors. Public schools in the Shinnston area are part of the Harrison County Schools district, offering no-cost education, potentially larger class sizes, and a broad curriculum. The private options (St. Mary's, St. Peter's) offer smaller, faith-based environments with consistent discipline and a values-integrated curriculum, but require tuition. Transportation is a key practical consideration; while public schools provide busing, private school families often must arrange carpools. Many families choose private schools for their close-knit community feel and religious foundation, while others value the resources and extracurricular breadth of the public system. Visiting both types of schools is essential to gauge the right fit for your child.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities