The Best Private Schools in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Menomonee Falls. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary's Parish School
Catholic
St. Mary's Parish School is a highly-regarded Catholic school located directly in Menomonee Falls, serving students from 3-year-old preschool through 8th grade. The school offers a faith-based education combined with strong academic programs, including advanced STEM curriculum, comprehensive fine arts, and Spanish language instruction. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, St. Mary's provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual formation, and community service. The school features modern classrooms, updated technology resources, and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
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Brookfield Academy
Independent
Brookfield Academy is an esteemed independent school located approximately 10 minutes from Menomonee Falls, serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school offers a classical education model with a strong emphasis on character development, critical thinking, and academic excellence. Brookfield Academy features a comprehensive college preparatory program with advanced placement courses, competitive athletics, extensive arts programs, and a 100% college acceptance rate. The campus includes modern academic facilities, science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience.
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University School of Milwaukee
Independent
University School of Milwaukee is a premier independent college preparatory school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Located just 15 minutes from Menomonee Falls, USM offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes, exceptional faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The school features comprehensive STEM labs, extensive arts programs, competitive athletics, and a 100% college acceptance rate. With a beautiful 123-acre campus, USM provides a well-rounded education emphasizing character development and leadership skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
What are the primary private school options for families residing in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and what are their key characteristics?
While Menomonee Falls itself is home to St. Mary's Parish School (a Catholic K-8 option), many families in the area also consider nearby institutions. The highly regarded University School of Milwaukee (PreK-12) is located in Milwaukee, about a 25-minute drive, and is known for its rigorous college-prep curriculum and extensive facilities. Brookfield Academy (K4-12) in nearby Brookfield, roughly a 15-minute drive, emphasizes a classical liberal arts education and character development. St. Mary's offers a faith-based education rooted in the local parish community. Transportation to these schools is typically the family's responsibility, so proximity and commute are important factors for Menomonee Falls residents.
How does tuition for private schools in the Menomonee Falls, WI area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Mary's Parish School has a parishioner tuition rate of approximately $5,000-$6,000 for elementary grades, making it a more affordable private option. In contrast, University School of Milwaukee's tuition ranges from approximately $28,000 to $32,000, and Brookfield Academy's is around $15,000 to $20,000. Wisconsin offers the Parental Choice Program (voucher program), but eligibility and participation vary by school and family income. Notably, St. Mary's participates in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program for qualifying families, which can significantly reduce costs. It's crucial to contact each school's admissions office for the most current tuition figures and detailed information on financial aid, scholarships, and voucher eligibility.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools serving Menomonee Falls students offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Schools in this area offer distinct educational philosophies and programs. Brookfield Academy is notable for its "Five Freedoms" philosophy and a classical curriculum that includes dedicated logic and rhetoric courses in the upper grades. University School of Milwaukee provides extensive global study programs, advanced STEM labs, and a wide array of arts and athletics facilities that rival small colleges. St. Mary's integrates Catholic faith and values throughout its curriculum and offers sacramental preparation. These schools often have smaller average class sizes than Menomonee Falls public schools, allowing for more individualized attention. Specializations like USM's Center for Transformative Teaching and Learning or Brookfield Academy's emphasis on Socratic dialogue are key differentiators.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin area?
The process is school-specific and requires advanced planning. For competitive schools like University School of Milwaukee and Brookfield Academy, the application process for the following fall often begins in the early fall (September-October), with deadlines for applications and financial aid requests typically between January and February. These schools usually require student assessments, interviews, and school records. St. Mary's Parish School, while also having an application process, may have more rolling admissions but encourages early inquiry, especially for non-parishioners. Open houses are typically held in the fall. A critical first step for Menomonee Falls families is to attend these events and check each school's website, as missing key deadlines can mean waiting another full year.
For a family weighing options, what are the main considerations when comparing the Menomonee Falls School District public schools to area private schools?
The decision hinges on educational philosophy, cost, and community. The Menomonee Falls School District offers a well-regarded, tuition-free public education with robust extracurriculars and AP courses. Choosing a private school involves a significant financial investment but may offer a specific value: a religious foundation (St. Mary's), a particular pedagogical approach like classical education (Brookfield Academy), or a comprehensive college-prep environment with extensive resources (University School of Milwaukee). Transportation is another key factor; Menomonee Falls public schools provide busing, while private schools do not. Families should also consider the community fit—whether they seek a close-knit parish community, a culture of academic competition, or a diverse student body drawn from across the metro area.
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