The Best Private Schools in Withee, Wisconsin
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Withee. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Columbus Catholic Schools
Columbus Catholic School System
Columbus Catholic Schools in Marshfield serve the Withee region with a comprehensive pre-K through 12th grade education, renowned for its academic excellence and high college acceptance rates. The school offers advanced programs in STEM, fine arts, and college prep, supported by state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts centers. With a dedicated faculty and a focus on holistic development, students engage in diverse extracurriculars such as robotics, sports teams, and service projects. Parent feedback consistently rates the school highly for its rigorous curriculum, supportive community, and commitment to fostering leadership and moral values.
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St. Mary's Catholic School
Diocese of La Crosse
St. Mary's Catholic School in Owen serves the Withee area with a faith-based education for pre-K through 8th grade. It is highly regarded for its strong academic foundation, dedicated teachers, and small class sizes that foster individual attention. The school offers a balanced curriculum including core subjects, religious instruction, and extracurricular activities like basketball, music, and community service. Parents consistently praise the supportive, family-like environment and the school's commitment to character development and academic excellence. Facilities include modern classrooms, a gymnasium, and technology resources, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
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St. Bernard's Catholic School
Diocese of La Crosse
St. Bernard's Catholic School in Thorp provides education to students from Withee and surrounding communities, emphasizing academic rigor within a Catholic values framework. With a focus on personalized learning, the school features experienced faculty, low student-teacher ratios, and a curriculum that includes STEM subjects, literacy, and arts. Extracurricular offerings include basketball, choir, and academic clubs, supported by facilities like a library, computer lab, and playground. Parent reviews highlight the school's safe, nurturing environment, high parent satisfaction, and strong community involvement, making it a top choice for families seeking quality private education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Withee, Wisconsin
What are the specific private school options available for families residing in or near Withee, Wisconsin?
In Withee and the immediate surrounding area, private education is primarily offered through Catholic school systems. The most prominent options include St. Mary's Catholic School in Withee itself, which typically serves younger grades. For a broader K-12 continuum, families often look to the Columbus Catholic Schools system in nearby Marshfield, which includes St. Bernard's Catholic School for elementary grades and Columbus Catholic Middle/High School. It's important to note that Withee is a rural community, so these schools may draw students from a wide geographic area, and transportation logistics are a key consideration for local families.
How does tuition at private schools like St. Mary's in Withee compare to state averages, and are there Wisconsin-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition at parish-affiliated schools like St. Mary's in Withee is typically below the statewide private school average due to subsidization from supporting parishes and the rural cost of living. For the 2023-2024 school year, elementary tuition at such schools often ranges from $2,500 to $4,500 per student, with significant discounts for active parish members and multiple children. Wisconsin offers specific financial aid opportunities through the statewide Parental Choice Program (voucher program), but eligibility is based on family income and the school's participation status. It is crucial to contact the school directly, as participation and available seats in the choice program can vary annually.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Withee area offer that leverage its rural setting?
Private schools in the Withee area, such as those within the Columbus Catholic system, often integrate the values of the surrounding agricultural community into their programs. This can include participation in local FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapters, environmental science projects focused on local ecosystems, and strong community service partnerships with area farms and businesses. Additionally, these schools frequently emphasize close-knit, multi-age classroom environments and may offer specialized faith-based curricula that align with the community's values. Their smaller size allows for individualized attention but may mean fewer specialized elective offerings compared to larger urban private schools.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for a school like St. Mary's Catholic School in Withee?
The enrollment process for St. Mary's Catholic School in Withee typically begins in January or February for the following academic year, with priority often given to registered parishioners and siblings of current students. The process usually involves submitting an application form, providing birth and baptismal certificates (if applicable), and scheduling a family meeting with the principal or pastor. Due to the school's small size, available spots can fill quickly, so early inquiry is strongly recommended. Open houses or visitation days are commonly held in the winter months. For the Columbus Catholic system, a unified enrollment process for its various campuses, including St. Bernard's, follows a similar timeline.
For a family in Withee, what are the key practical differences between sending a child to the local public school (Owen-Withee School District) versus a private option like St. Mary's?
The key differences center on class size, curriculum, transportation, and cost. The Owen-Withee public school district offers a comprehensive K-12 education with standard public school programming, extracurriculars, and provided transportation. Private options like St. Mary's offer much smaller class sizes and a faith-based education integrated throughout the curriculum, but they typically require parents to arrange transportation, as busing may not be provided or may be limited to specific routes. Financially, public school is tax-funded, while private school requires tuition, though financial aid may be available. For higher grades, the private option requires commuting to Marshfield for Columbus Catholic Schools, which is a significant logistical consideration for Withee families.