Elmwood Private Schools
A Faith-Based Private School Option for Elmwood Families
Families exploring Elmwood private schools are often looking for more than academics alone. They want a learning environment that supports their child’s growth intellectually, socially, and morally. St. Mary’s School, located in Kickapoo with an Edwards address, offers a trusted private, faith-based education just a short drive from Elmwood.
For generations, families throughout Peoria County have chosen St. Mary’s for its commitment to academic excellence, Catholic values, and a close-knit school community that treats every student as an individual.
Why Families Near Elmwood Choose St. Mary’s School

Parents seeking private school options near Elmwood appreciate the balance St. Mary’s provides between strong academics and character development. Our approach focuses on educating the whole child in a safe, supportive environment.
Key reasons families choose St. Mary’s include:
- Faith-based education rooted in Catholic values
- Small class sizes that allow for individualized attention
- A structured, nurturing learning environment
- Dedicated teachers who partner closely with families
- Emphasis on respect, responsibility, and leadership
This combination helps students develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love of learning.
Academic Excellence in a Private School Setting
At St. Mary’s School, academic expectations are high, and students are encouraged to reach their full potential. Our curriculum is designed to build strong foundations in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies while also encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Private education at St. Mary’s allows teachers to tailor instruction to students’ needs, reinforcing strengths and providing support where necessary. Technology, enrichment opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences enhance classroom instruction and prepare students for success in later grades.
Faith and Values Integrated Into Daily Learning
One of the defining features of private education at St. Mary’s is the integration of faith into everyday learning. Students participate in daily prayer, religious instruction, and weekly Mass, helping them understand how faith guides their actions and decisions.
Catholic values such as compassion, honesty, service, and respect are reinforced throughout the school day. This faith-centered approach helps students develop strong moral character and a sense of responsibility to others, both inside and outside the classroom.
A Supportive School Community That Feels Like Family
Unlike larger institutions, private schools offer the opportunity to build meaningful relationships over time. At St. Mary’s, students are known by name, and families are active partners in the educational experience.
Teachers work closely with parents to support academic progress and personal development. This strong sense of community helps students feel safe, valued, and confident, creating an environment where they are willing to grow, learn, and lead.
Serving Elmwood and Surrounding Communities
Although St. Mary’s School is located in Kickapoo, many of our students come from Elmwood and nearby communities, including Dunlap, Brimfield, Princeville, Peoria, and Bartonville. Families in Elmwood appreciate having access to a private, faith-based school that is close to home while offering a strong educational foundation.
Our convenient location and welcoming environment make St. Mary’s a practical and meaningful choice for families seeking private education near Elmwood.
Why St. Mary’s Is a Trusted Private School Near Elmwood

When comparing Elmwood private schools, families often find that St. Mary’s offers a unique blend of academic rigor, faith formation, and personal attention. Our mission-driven approach prepares students not only for academic success, but also for lives guided by integrity, service, and leadership.
Choosing St. Mary’s means choosing a school that values partnership with families and focuses on long-term student development.
Discover a Private School Near Elmwood That Puts Faith and Learning First
If you are exploring private school options near Elmwood, IL, St. Mary’s School invites you to learn more about our faith-based approach to education.
St. Mary’s School
9910 W Knox St
Edwards, IL 61528
Phone: (309) 691-3015
Website:https://stmaryskickapoo.org/school/
Schedule a visit today to see how St. Mary’s School supports academic excellence, character development, and a strong foundation of faith for students from Elmwood and beyond.