The Best Private Schools in Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Elkhorn. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
University School of Milwaukee
Independent
University School of Milwaukee is a premier independent day school serving southeastern Wisconsin, including the Elkhorn area. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade with small class sizes averaging 15 students. USM features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and character development, with graduates consistently gaining admission to top-tier universities. The school maintains a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including robotics, debate, and championship athletic programs.
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Lake Country School
Independent
Lake Country School provides an exceptional Montessori-based education serving families throughout Walworth and Waukesha counties, including Elkhorn. Serving students from 18 months through 8th grade, the school combines Montessori principles with rigorous academic preparation. The campus features specialized Montessori classrooms, science labs, art studios, and extensive natural outdoor learning environments. The school emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on experiences, and community engagement. Students consistently outperform national averages on standardized testing and develop strong leadership skills through the school's unique adolescent program and community service initiatives.
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St. Francis de Sales Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Milwaukee
St. Francis de Sales Catholic School serves the Elkhorn and Lake Geneva area with a comprehensive faith-based education from 3-year-old preschool through 8th grade. The school provides a strong academic foundation integrated with Catholic values and traditions. Features include modern technology integration, dedicated STEM labs, comprehensive music and art programs, and competitive athletic teams. The school maintains small class sizes with individualized attention and offers before/after school care. Students consistently achieve above-average scores on standardized testing and are well-prepared for area Catholic and public high schools, with many earning academic scholarships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Elkhorn, Wisconsin
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Elkhorn, Wisconsin?
While Elkhorn itself is home to a few local parochial schools like St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, many families in the area also consider highly-regarded independent schools within a reasonable commute. These include the University School of Milwaukee (a Pre-K through 12 independent school in Milwaukee) and Lake Country School (a Montessori school in Hartland). The choice often depends on the desired educational philosophy, grade levels needed, and willingness to commute. St. Francis de Sales provides a local, faith-based K-8 option right in the Elkhorn community.
How does tuition for private schools in the Elkhorn, WI area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Wisconsin?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school. Local parochial schools like St. Francis de Sales typically have lower, parish-subsidized tuition, often ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 annually. In contrast, independent schools like University School of Milwaukee have tuition that can exceed $25,000 per year. A key Wisconsin-specific financial consideration is the Parental Choice Program (voucher program), which may provide state-funded tuition assistance for eligible families to attend participating private schools, including some in and around the Elkhorn area. It's crucial to check each school's participation status and eligibility requirements.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Elkhorn residents?
Schools in the region offer diverse specializations. University School of Milwaukee provides a rigorous college-prep curriculum with extensive arts, athletics, and advanced STEM facilities. Lake Country School offers an authentic, hands-on Montessori education from toddler through middle school. Locally, St. Francis de Sales integrates Catholic faith throughout its curriculum and may offer smaller class sizes for personalized attention. For Elkhorn families, a notable advantage is the ability to choose a specialized program (Montessori, faith-based, or college-preparatory) that may not be available in the public district, even if it requires a commute.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Elkhorn, Wisconsin community?
Timelines are critical and vary by school. For sought-after independent schools like University School of Milwaukee or Lake Country School, the process often begins a full year in advance, with applications due in January or February for the following fall. This includes assessments, interviews, and campus visits. For local schools like St. Francis de Sales, the process may be more flexible but still benefits from early inquiry, especially for non-parishioners. Wisconsin's voucher program (Parental Choice) has its own application window, typically in February, which must be adhered to separately from a school's admission decision.
For families in Elkhorn, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district to private school options?
The Elkhorn Area School District is well-regarded, so the decision often hinges on specific family values and needs. Key considerations include: **Educational Approach:** Private options offer distinct philosophies (Montessori, religious, progressive). **Class Size:** Private schools generally offer smaller student-to-teacher ratios. **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded, while private requires tuition, though vouchers may offset this. **Convenience:** Elkhorn public schools provide neighborhood access, while top private options involve a commute to Milwaukee or Waukesha counties. **Curriculum:** Private schools may offer more specialized or accelerated tracks not available in the public district's standard curriculum.
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