Service Area – Dunlap

Private Catholic School Serving Dunlap, IL

Families in Dunlap, Illinois seeking a faith-centered, academically strong PreK–8th grade education choose St. Mary’s of Kickapoo School for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and Christ-centered community.

Located just minutes from Dunlap, St. Mary’s provides a welcoming Catholic school environment where students are challenged academically, supported personally, and formed spiritually.

A Private School Alternative Near Dunlap, IL

Dunlap is known for its strong schools and growing family community. For parents seeking a smaller, faith-based educational environment, St. Mary’s of Kickapoo offers a close-knit alternative just a short commute away.

Dunlap families appreciate the balance of academic rigor and spiritual development, along with the opportunity for their children to learn in a setting where teachers truly know each student by name.

Faith-Centered Education for Dunlap Families

At St. Mary’s, faith is integrated into daily life. Students from Dunlap participate in:

  • Daily prayer and school-wide liturgies
  • Celebration of the Mass throughout the year
  • Sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation
  • Service projects that cultivate compassion and leadership

Our Catholic identity shapes our culture, curriculum, and community, while welcoming families of diverse backgrounds.

Academic Excellence with Individualized Support

Smaller class sizes allow us to focus on each child’s growth. Dunlap students benefit from:

  • Illinois State Learning Standards curriculum
  • Differentiated instruction
  • NWEA/MAP testing three times annually
  • 1:1 technology for grades 3–8
  • A proven record of graduate success

St. Mary’s graduates continue to excel academically in high school, including strong performance at Peoria Notre Dame High School.

Opportunities to Learn, Grow & Thrive

Students from Dunlap enjoy well-rounded opportunities beyond core academics, including:

  • Art, Band, Music & Theater
  • Spanish for Kindergarten through 8th grade
  • CONNECTed — our teacher-created curriculum featuring STEM, Agriculture/Cooking, Progressive PE, and Coding
  • Athletics including basketball, volleyball, baseball, and track
  • Chess Club and Student Council

Our Boosters Club underwrites extracurricular programming, ensuring families can participate without additional athletic fees.

Why Dunlap Parents Choose St. Mary’s

Parents in Dunlap often choose St. Mary’s because they value:

✔ Smaller class sizes and personal attention
✔ A strong moral and ethical foundation
✔ High academic standards
✔ A safe, structured environment
✔ A school community rooted in faith

At St. Mary’s of Kickapoo, students don’t just attend school — they belong and thrive.

Schedule a Tour from Dunlap, IL

If you live in Dunlap and are exploring private Catholic school options, we invite you to visit St. Mary’s of Kickapoo and experience the difference firsthand.

Schedule a tour today and discover how your child can Learn, Grow, and Thrive.