2024 Best Private K-12 Schools
2024 Best Private K-12 Schools
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#6 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Head-Royce School
Perched in the scenic Oakland hills, Head-Royce School offers a transformative K-12 educational experience that blends academic rigor with a nurturing community. With a rich history dating back to 1887, the school is committed to cultivating lifelong learners who lead with joy, purpose, and compassion. The expansive 22-acre campus provides flexible learning spaces, supporting a dynamic curriculum that includes hands-on activities, innovative STEM programs, and a strong emphasis on the arts and humanities. Boasting an impressive 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Head-Royce ensures personalized attention, preparing students to excel in college and beyond.

#6 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Sage Hill School
Sage Hill School, located in Newport Coast, CA, is a premier independent high school known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and innovative programs. The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The beautiful 28-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, athletic fields, and a recently renovated library designed to inspire creativity and collaboration. With a strong emphasis on community, character development, and personal growth, Sage Hill School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#7 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Menlo School
Menlo School in Atherton, CA, is an esteemed private institution that offers a dynamic and engaging educational experience for students in grades 6-12. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, Menlo provides a stimulating environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop critical thinking skills. The school’s vibrant community is enriched by a wide array of extracurricular activities, including award-winning athletics and arts programs, ensuring a well-rounded education. Known for its supportive faculty and innovative curriculum, Menlo School prepares students to excel in college and beyond, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a top-tier education.

#7 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Westridge School
Westridge School, located in Pasadena, CA, is a prestigious all-girls independent day school serving grades 4-12. Established in 1913, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum tailored to how girls learn best, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The picturesque campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, and athletic fields, creating an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on leadership, community, and personal growth, Westridge School empowers young women to become confident, compassionate leaders ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.

#8 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Marlborough School
Marlborough School, located in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, is the oldest independent girls’ school in Southern California, founded in 1889 by Mary Caswell. Renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, Marlborough offers a diverse range of Advanced Placement and honors courses, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The unified campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, and athletic fields, fostering a vibrant and engaging learning environment. With a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity, leadership, and community service, Marlborough School empowers young women to excel academically and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities.

#8 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

The Quarry Lane School
The Quarry Lane School, located in Dublin and Pleasanton, CA, is a distinguished private institution offering a comprehensive education from preschool through 12th grade. With four campuses—Pleasanton East, Pleasanton West, Dublin West, and Dublin East—Quarry Lane provides a diverse and enriching learning environment. The school’s interdisciplinary approach emphasizes experiential learning and real-world problem-solving, integrating the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and advanced placement courses. Known for its supportive community and dedicated faculty, Quarry Lane ensures that each student is well-prepared for college and beyond, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking top-tier education.

#9 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences, located in the vibrant urban area of Santa Monica, CA, offers a dynamic K-12 education that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Founded in 1971, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and commitment to social justice, providing a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, and performance spaces, fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment. With a strong focus on community service, diversity, and holistic development, Crossroads School prepares students to excel academically and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#9 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

The Branson School
The Branson School, located in the charming town of Ross, CA, is a prestigious co-educational high school that offers a transformative educational experience for students in grades 9-12. Known for its rigorous academic programs and a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, Branson provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive both intellectually and personally. The school’s beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Tallant Science Center and the LEED Platinum-certified Student Commons, supporting a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong emphasis on character development and community engagement, Branson prepares its graduates for success in top-tier colleges and beyond, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking a well-rounded education.

#10 Best Private School in Los Angeles

The Webb Schools
The Webb Schools, nestled in the picturesque foothills of Claremont, CA, offer an exceptional boarding and day school experience for students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1922, Webb is renowned for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, which includes a wide range of Advanced Placement and unique Advanced Studies courses designed by Webb faculty. The expansive 150-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology, the only accredited museum of its kind on a high school campus. With a strong emphasis on community, honor, and moral courage, The Webb Schools prepare students to excel academically and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities and beyond.

#10 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Marin Academy
Marin Academy, situated in the vibrant city of San Rafael, CA, offers an exceptional high school experience that blends rigorous academics with a commitment to experiential learning. Known for its innovative curriculum, Marin Academy encourages students to think critically, engage deeply with complex issues, and develop into compassionate global citizens. The school’s unique programs, such as the Marin Academy Research Collaborative (MARC) and the Transdisciplinary Leadership Program (TLP), provide students with opportunities to conduct college-level research and solve real-world problems. With a supportive community and a student-teacher ratio of 7:1, Marin Academy ensures personalized attention, preparing students for success in college and beyond.

#66 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Apostles Lutheran School
Apostles Lutheran School, located in San Jose, CA, offers a well-rounded and comprehensive education for students from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. Known for its strong college preparatory curriculum, the school provides a variety of Advanced Placement courses and enrichment programs that challenge students academically and foster personal growth. The beautiful campus features modern facilities and hosts a popular eight-week summer activity camp, as well as a free one-week Vacation Bible School, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. With a commitment to academic excellence, spiritual development, and community engagement, Apostles Lutheran School prepares students to excel in higher education and beyond.

#67 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Mercy High School
Mercy High School in Burlingame, CA, is a prestigious all-girls Catholic institution set in the historic and picturesque Kohl Mansion. Established over 90 years ago, Mercy is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement and honors courses, as well as a nationally recognized Visual and Performing Arts program. The school’s vibrant community fosters a strong sense of sisterhood and tradition, encouraging students to explore their passions through numerous extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities. With a commitment to faith, values, and holistic development, Mercy High School prepares young women to excel academically and become compassionate leaders in their communities.

#68 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Sterne School
Sterne School, located in the heart of San Francisco, offers a unique and personalized educational experience for students in grades 4-12. Known for its strengths-based program, Sterne tailors its curriculum to meet the individual learning profiles of each student, fostering both academic and personal growth. The school’s college preparatory program emphasizes autonomy and critical thinking, while providing the necessary support to ensure every student thrives. With a vibrant community and a commitment to joyful learning, Sterne School prepares students to excel in higher education and beyond.

#69 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School, located in Palo Alto, CA, offers a vibrant and enriching education for students from Transitional Kindergarten through 8th grade. The school combines rigorous academics with Jewish values, fostering intellectual curiosity, ethical growth, and a strong sense of community. The curriculum includes innovative project-based learning experiences, such as the “Ir Shalom” project, where students design and build a peaceful Jewish city, integrating lessons in architecture, community, and social services. With a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals, Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School prepares students to excel academically and become impactful leaders in their communities and beyond.

#70 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Marin Christian Academy
Marin Christian Academy, located in Novato, CA, offers a nurturing and faith-centered education for students from preschool through 12th grade. Established over 40 years ago, the school is dedicated to academic excellence and character development, providing a challenging and diverse curriculum that fosters critical thinking and a love of learning. The beautiful campus features modern facilities and a variety of enrichment activities, including music, art, technology, sports, and student government, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. With a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and community involvement, Marin Christian Academy prepares students to become compassionate, confident, and successful individuals.

#71 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

San Francisco Christian School
San Francisco Christian School, located in the heart of San Francisco, CA, offers a comprehensive Christian education for students from preschool through 12th grade. Established in 1971, the school is dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, providing a nurturing environment where students can thrive. The curriculum includes a wide range of subjects, such as Bible studies, English, math, science, history, physical education, art, and music, ensuring a well-rounded education. With a strong emphasis on community service, character development, and preparing students for college and beyond, San Francisco Christian School is an excellent choice for families seeking a faith-based and academically rigorous education.

#72 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Palo Alto Preparatory School
Palo Alto Preparatory School, located in Mountain View, CA, offers a personalized and supportive educational environment for students in grades 8-12. Founded in 1984, the school is dedicated to serving complex learners, including those who are neurodivergent, school-avoidant, or experiencing social anxiety, ensuring they feel safe and accepted. The curriculum includes unique electives such as rock climbing, scuba diving, and aviation, providing students with immersive learning experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. With a strong emphasis on individual strengths, personal growth, and a close-knit community, Palo Alto Preparatory School prepares students to thrive academically and personally, ready to take on the challenges of higher education and beyond.

#73 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

St. Ignatius College Preparatory School
St. Ignatius College Preparatory School, located in the Sunset District of San Francisco, CA, is a prestigious Catholic institution with a rich history dating back to 1855. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, the school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement and honors courses, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The beautiful 11.4-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic fields, and a performing arts center, creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment. With a strong emphasis on Jesuit values of faith, service, and leadership, St. Ignatius College Preparatory nurtures students to become compassionate and responsible leaders in their communities.

#74 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Marin Catholic High School
Marin Catholic High School, located in Kentfield, CA, is a prestigious co-educational Catholic institution founded in 1949. Known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, the school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement and honors courses, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic fields, and a performing arts center, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment. With a strong emphasis on faith, knowledge, and service, Marin Catholic High School nurtures students to become compassionate and responsible leaders in their communities.

#75 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Averroes Institute
Averroes Institute, located in Fremont, CA, is a distinguished private Islamic high school dedicated to providing a holistic, college-preparatory education. Founded in 2010, the school integrates rigorous academics with Islamic studies, fostering both intellectual and spiritual growth. The curriculum includes a variety of Advanced Placement courses and opportunities for students to earn college credits through local community colleges, ensuring they are well-prepared for higher education. With a strong emphasis on community, moral development, and personalized learning, Averroes Institute nurtures responsible, compassionate young adults ready to excel in college and beyond.