The Best Private Schools in Dane, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Dane. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Madison Country Day School
Independent
Madison Country Day School is a premier independent school serving the greater Madison area, including Dane. As Wisconsin's only International Baccalaureate World School offering all three IB programs (Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma), it provides a rigorous, internationally-recognized education. The 40-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The school serves students from age 3 through grade 12 with small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong focus on character development. Families from Dane appreciate the comprehensive academic program and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
Programs:
St. Maria Goretti Catholic School
Catholic Schools of Madison
St. Maria Goretti Catholic School serves students from preschool through 8th grade from across the Madison area, including Dane families. The school provides a strong academic foundation within a faith-based environment, emphasizing character development and community service. The curriculum includes comprehensive language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies programs enhanced by specialized instruction in Spanish, music, art, and physical education. The school features modern classrooms, technology integration, and a supportive community atmosphere. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, strong parent involvement, and the well-rounded education that prepares students for high school success.
Programs:
Edgewood High School
Edgewood Schools
Edgewood High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory school serving students throughout the Madison metropolitan area, including Dane. Founded by the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, the school maintains a strong tradition of academic excellence and values-based education. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing skills, and college readiness with extensive Advanced Placement offerings. The campus features modern academic facilities, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. Edgewood's diverse student body benefits from a robust athletic program, numerous clubs, and community service opportunities, making it a popular choice for families seeking a comprehensive private education.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Dane, Wisconsin
What are the primary private school options available for families in Dane, Wisconsin, and what educational philosophies do they represent?
While Dane itself is a village, families in the Dane area typically look to nearby Madison for private school options. The top schools include Madison Country Day School (a PreK-12 independent school with an International Baccalaureate curriculum and a focus on classical education), Edgewood High School (a Catholic, college-preparatory school for grades 9-12 run by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters), and St. Maria Goretti Catholic School (a PreK-8 parish school). These represent a range of philosophies from secular, globally-focused IB to faith-based education. It's important to note that Wisconsin's unique Open Enrollment program for public schools also influences the landscape, as some families may choose specific public school districts, making the consideration of private schools a very deliberate choice for specialized offerings.
How does Wisconsin's Parental Choice Program affect tuition costs for private schools in the Dane area?
Wisconsin's nationally recognized Parental Choice Programs can significantly reduce tuition costs for qualifying families. The Dane area falls under the **Racine** and **Statewide** Private School Choice Programs. This means eligible families based on income may receive a state-funded voucher to attend participating private schools, including religious schools like Edgewood High School and St. Maria Goretti. Madison Country Day School, as an independent school, does not participate in the voucher program. Tuition without aid varies widely, from approximately $5,000-$8,000 for elementary Catholic schools to over $20,000 for independent high schools. Parents should directly contact schools to confirm their participation status and their specific financial aid and voucher application processes.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Dane/Madison region that leverage local resources?
Private schools in the Dane area capitalize on proximity to Madison's institutions. Madison Country Day School emphasizes science and environmental studies, with potential connections to the UW-Madison Arboretum. Edgewood High School offers a robust **STEM program** and partnerships with local tech companies and the university. Many schools, including St. Maria Goretti, integrate outdoor education, benefiting from Wisconsin's natural landscape. Furthermore, Edgewood's **Lasallian Ministry** program emphasizes community service within the greater Madison area. The presence of a major research university means enhanced opportunities for advanced research, guest lecturers, and specialized arts programs that are distinctive to this region.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Dane, WI community?
Timelines are crucial and often earlier than public school registration. For schools like Madison Country Day and Edgewood High School, the main application cycle for the following academic year typically opens in **September or October**, with deadlines for first-round consideration between **January and February**. This often includes entrance exams (like the HSPT for Edgewood), interviews, and submission of records. St. Maria Goretti and other parish schools may have rolling admission but prioritize parish members. Given the competitive nature, especially for higher grades, families in Dane are advised to begin research and attend open houses in the fall, 12-18 months before desired enrollment. Most schools host fall open house events.
For families in Dane, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school districts (like DeForest or Waunakee) to private school options?
The key considerations are educational approach, cost, and community. Public schools in the DeForest or Waunakee districts are highly rated and offer no direct tuition cost, funded by property taxes. They provide a broad range of programs, sports, and services. Private schools offer distinct alternatives: a specific religious formation (Catholic), a particular pedagogical approach (IB at MCDS), often smaller class sizes, and a potentially more tailored community. The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks a values-based education aligned with their faith, desires a specific rigorous curriculum like IB, or needs an environment not available in the public system. Transportation is also a factor, as private schools do not provide district busing, making commute logistics a practical consideration for Dane residents.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities