The Best Private Schools in De Forest, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in De Forest. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Ambrose Academy
Independent Catholic School
St. Ambrose Academy provides a classical Catholic education serving families throughout the Madison metropolitan area, including De Forest. The school's rigorous curriculum emphasizes the liberal arts tradition with mandatory Latin instruction, Socratic dialogue, and great books study. Students benefit from small class sizes and a tight-knit community focused on intellectual and moral formation. The academy boasts exceptional college placement results with graduates consistently accepted to prestigious universities. The comprehensive program includes competitive athletics, vibrant fine arts, and extensive service opportunities that develop well-rounded students.
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Edgewood High School of the Sacred Heart
Edgewood Schools
Edgewood High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the greater Madison area, including De Forest families. The school offers a rigorous academic program with 18 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. With small class sizes averaging 18 students, personalized attention and academic excellence are hallmarks of the Edgewood experience. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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Queen of Peace School
Diocese of Madison Catholic Schools
Queen of Peace School offers a comprehensive Catholic education from Pre-K through 8th grade, serving families in Madison and surrounding communities including De Forest. The school provides a strong academic foundation with emphasis on faith formation, character development, and academic excellence. Features include modern technology integration, dedicated STEM labs, comprehensive music and art programs, and competitive sports. The school maintains small class sizes with individualized attention and offers extensive extracurricular activities. Queen of Peace prepares students for success at top area high schools with a track record of academic achievement and community leadership.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in De Forest, Wisconsin
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in De Forest, Wisconsin?
While De Forest itself is a smaller community, families have access to several well-regarded private schools in the greater Madison area, with many De Forest residents commuting. The top options frequently considered include **Edgewood High School of the Sacred Heart** (a Catholic, Sinsinawa Dominican-sponsored high school in Madison), **St. Ambrose Academy** (a classical, Catholic 6-12 school in Madison), and **Queen of Peace School** (a Catholic K-8 school in Madison). There are also other faith-based and independent schools in nearby Madison, Sun Prairie, and Waunakee. Transportation is a key consideration, as most options require a daily commute.
How does the tuition for private schools near De Forest, WI, compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-25 academic year, high school tuition at schools like Edgewood or St. Ambrose typically ranges from $12,000 to $15,000+. Elementary/middle school tuition at Queen of Peace is generally lower. A critical financial resource for Wisconsin families is the **Parental Choice Program**, which allows eligible families to receive a state-funded voucher to attend participating private schools, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. Eligibility is based on income and residency. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the De Forest area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools in the Madison area accessible to De Forest families often emphasize specialized educational philosophies. **St. Ambrose Academy** offers a distinctive classical curriculum centered on the liberal arts and great books. **Edgewood High School** provides a rigorous college-prep program with a focus on social justice and extensive arts and athletics. Many private schools also offer stronger integration of faith-based values for families seeking that environment. In terms of extracurriculars, these schools often have robust offerings in theater, robotics, and competitive sports that compete at the state level, sometimes with more focused attention due to smaller class sizes.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving De Forest, WI, families?
The enrollment process is school-specific but generally follows an annual cycle. For most schools, the application period for the following academic year opens in the fall (September-October), with deadlines often in early winter (January-February). Key steps usually include: attending an open house (often held in fall), submitting an application, providing records and teacher recommendations, and possibly completing an entrance exam or student interview. For schools in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program, there is a separate application window (typically February-April) for the voucher. It's crucial to contact schools directly, as spaces, especially in lower grades, can be limited.
For a family living in De Forest, what are the major considerations when choosing between the highly-rated De Forest Area Public Schools and a private school in Madison?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, commute, and cost. **De Forest Area Public Schools** are consistently high-performing, offer proximity, and involve no tuition. Choosing a private school in Madison typically involves a **15-30 minute commute** each way, which impacts daily logistics and extracurricular participation. Families may opt for private education for reasons such as a desire for a specific religious foundation, a classical curriculum, smaller class sizes, or a particular community environment. The Wisconsin voucher program can make private school financially feasible for qualifying families. It's recommended to thoroughly tour both local public and private options to assess the best fit for your child's needs.
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