The Best Private Schools in Grafton, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Grafton. 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 School
As one of the premier independent schools in southeastern Wisconsin, University School of Milwaukee serves families throughout the region including Grafton. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade with exceptional facilities including state-of-the-art science centers, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic complexes. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate and offers numerous Advanced Placement courses. Extracurricular programs include championship athletic teams, extensive arts offerings, and global education opportunities.
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Lake Country School
Independent School
Located in nearby Hartland, Lake Country School serves families throughout Ozaukee County including Grafton. This established Montessori school offers education from toddler through 8th grade, focusing on individualized learning and student development. The campus features extensive natural surroundings, modern classrooms, and specialized learning spaces. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, environmental education, and character development. The school maintains small class sizes and has strong parent involvement, with many families commuting from surrounding communities for its exceptional Montessori program.
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St. John Lutheran School
St. John Lutheran Church
St. John Lutheran School provides a comprehensive Christian education serving students from preschool through 8th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-based environment, offering small class sizes and individualized attention. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities. The curriculum integrates technology with traditional academics, complemented by strong music, art, and athletic programs. Parent satisfaction is high with families appreciating the tight-knit community and strong moral foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Grafton, Wisconsin
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Grafton, Wisconsin, and what are their key characteristics?
Grafton itself is home to **St. John Lutheran School**, a well-regarded parochial school offering a Christ-centered education from Pre-K through 8th grade. For broader options, families commonly look to nearby communities. The prestigious **University School of Milwaukee (USM)**, located in River Hills about a 25-minute drive, is a premier independent JK-12 day school with a rigorous college-prep curriculum. **Lake Country School** in Hartland, roughly 20 minutes away, is a private Montessori school serving children from infancy through 8th grade. Additionally, several other religious and independent schools in Ozaukee County and the greater Milwaukee metro area are accessible to Grafton residents, offering a range of educational philosophies.
How does tuition for private schools in the Grafton, WI area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition varies significantly based on the school type. Local parochial schools like St. John Lutheran generally have the most accessible tuition, often ranging from $5,000 to $8,000 annually, with member discounts. Independent schools like University School of Milwaukee have higher tuition, comparable to national independent schools, often exceeding $25,000 per year for upper grades. Wisconsin offers the **Parental Choice Program**, a state-funded voucher system that can significantly reduce tuition costs for qualifying families at participating private schools. Eligibility is based on income and residency. It's crucial to check each school's participation status and financial aid offerings, as many also provide substantial need-based grants.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Grafton families?
Schools in this region offer distinct specializations. **University School of Milwaukee** provides an extensive array of advanced placement courses, global studies programs, state-of-the-art STEM facilities, and competitive athletics and arts. **Lake Country School** offers an authentic, uninterrupted Montessori curriculum emphasizing hands-on, individualized learning through middle school. **St. John Lutheran School** integrates faith-based learning with core academics and may offer specialized instruction in areas like music or German. A notable advantage for Grafton-area families is the proximity to Milwaukee's cultural and scientific institutions, which many private schools leverage for enrichment programs, internships, and field studies.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Grafton, Wisconsin?
Timelines are school-specific and require early planning. For highly sought-after schools like USM, the process often begins 12-18 months before the desired entry date, with applications due in January or February for the following fall. Key steps usually include: submitting an application, student assessments or classroom visits, parent interviews, and providing transcripts. Schools like St. John Lutheran may have more rolling admission but encourage early application. **Open houses typically occur in the fall.** A critical step for Wisconsin families is determining eligibility and applying for the state's **Parental Choice Program** by the April deadline if seeking a tuition voucher, as this can influence final enrollment decisions.
For a family in Grafton, what are the practical considerations when comparing the local public school district with area private schools?
The **Grafton School District** is highly rated, which is an important factor. Considerations include: **Educational Approach:** Public schools offer a standard curriculum; private options provide specific philosophies (Montessori, religious, college-prep). **Class Size:** Private schools often boast smaller student-to-teacher ratios. **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded; private requires tuition, though vouchers may offset this. **Logistics:** Grafton public schools are neighborhood-based, while private options may involve a commute to River Hills, Hartland, or Milwaukee. **Continuity:** Grafton High School serves public 9-12 graders, while private paths may mean a JK-12 continuum or a search for a new high school after 8th grade. The decision often hinges on values alignment and desired specialization.
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