Local Private Schools Raise Tuition Amid EFA Funding Increase

As the 2026-27 school year approaches, families navigating private education are seeing a shift in both available funding and overall costs. Applications for Educational Freedom Accounts (EFAs) have officially closed, with the state increasing the per-child allocation from $6,864 to $7,208. These funds provide critical support for private school tuition, tutoring, and homeschooling expenses.

Despite the increase in state funding, many private schools across the state are raising their tuition rates. The scale of these increases varies significantly. For instance, Joshua Academy in Crawford County implemented a modest $50 increase for sixth graders, while Ozark Catholic Academy in Washington County saw a substantial hike of $4,811 for high school students.

Locally, the impact is widespread. Of the ten private schools in the area that accept EFA vouchers, eight have raised rates for certain grade levels. In Boone County, The Rock Christian Academy reported significant increases, with K-8 tuition rising to $6,500 and high school rates jumping to $7,500. Harrison Seventh Day Adventist increased its rates to $5,000, and Crestline Academy raised half-day kindergarten costs to $4,500. Notably, Room to Bloom maintained its current rates.

Carroll County schools followed a similar upward trend. The Academy of Excellence increased all grade levels to $6,500, and Calvary Christian Academy raised tuition to $7,100. Clear Spring School reported the highest totals in the region, with rates reaching up to $10,750 for older students. Meanwhile, Oak Christian Academy opted for a smaller increase, bringing its total tuition to $7,000.

As these costs rise, families must balance the increased state support against the growing expenses of private education to determine the best academic path for their children.

Share this article...