Schools in Springfield (Lincoln, Chatham, Lincolnshire: catholic schools, living, price)

[emcare]

I live in Springfield and we are facing the prospect Kindergarten for our daughter in just a couple years. Right now she is going to preschool run by the park district and we love it. The area that we live in now has a very bad public elementary school and so we are looking at our options for kindy and beyond.

Any recomendations for private or charter schools in the city? I have heard of Ball Charter, but I'm having a hard time finding actual information from parents or people that have attended there. Is it a decent option--should we look into getting her name on the list?

I know that we have a lot of Catholic schools. Are there any other options religious or otherwise? What about price ranges? Any other thought?

Thanks in advance!

[AnimalLover]

Have you considered moving into a different area of town? There are several good public elementary schools in Springfield. Much of the south side of Springfield is in the Chatham district, including Trevi Gardens, Lakewind, Lincolnshire, Hyde Park etc. That could be a less expensive option than paying tuition.

For private schools you might want to look into Springfield Christian at Westside Christian church. My kids went there years ago when it was called Christian Elementary. There is also Calvary Academy (Baptist) and Lutheran Schools. They generally charge their church members less in tuition and I'm sure they would be glad to send you specific information regarding cost and payment options.

[emcare]

Unfortunately, moving is not an option right now. I will be looking into the schools that you mentioned. Thanks.

Anyone else? Any thoughts on the Montessori school or other private options? Anyone with experience with any of them?

[Maintainschaos]

What section of the city are you living? While you pointed out that there are many Catholic schools, being of the Catholic faith isn't a prerequisite. However, they are going to be more expensive than public schools, obviously. I think the education you receive from the Catholic schools in Springfield is well worth the extra money.