2024 Best Private K-12 Schools
2024 Best Private K-12 Schools
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#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.

#11 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Chadwick School
Chadwick School, located on the picturesque Palos Verdes Peninsula in CA, is a renowned independent K-12 day school founded in 1935. The school is celebrated for its rigorous academic curriculum, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The expansive 45-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic fields, and a performing arts center, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on character development, global citizenship, and experiential learning, Chadwick School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities and beyond.

#11 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

The Harker School
The Harker School, located in San Jose, CA, is a top-tier private institution offering an unparalleled educational experience from preschool through 12th grade. Renowned for its rigorous academics and innovative curriculum, Harker provides students with countless opportunities to explore their passions through advanced placement courses, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school’s four campuses—Bucknall, Union, Blackford, and Saratoga—each offer state-of-the-art facilities that support a dynamic and enriching learning environment. With a strong emphasis on character development and community engagement, Harker prepares its students for success in college and beyond, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking a well-rounded education.

#12 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Fairmont Preparatory Academy
Fairmont Preparatory Academy, located in Anaheim, CA, offers a unique and comprehensive college-preparatory education for students in grades 9-12. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the school provides a wide range of Advanced Placement courses, as well as specialized programs like the Advanced Science & Engineering Program (ASEP) and the International Business Program (IBP). The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic fields, and performing arts spaces, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. With a strong emphasis on character development, community involvement, and preparing students for top universities, Fairmont Preparatory Academy is an excellent choice for families seeking a well-rounded and challenging education.

#12 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Urban School of San Francisco
Urban School of San Francisco, located adjacent to the iconic Golden Gate Park, is a forward-thinking college-preparatory high school that has been inspiring students since 1966. Known for its innovative academic programs, Urban employs block scheduling and integrated service learning to foster deep engagement and critical thinking. The school offers Urban Advanced Studies (UAS) classes, which provide college-level coursework, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. With a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on collaboration and active participation, Urban School creates a vibrant community where students can thrive both academically and personally.

#13 Best Private School in Los Angeles

The Buckley School
The Buckley School, located in Sherman Oaks, CA, is a prestigious K-12 co-educational day school founded in 1933. Renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, Buckley offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The beautiful 18-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic fields, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on the Four-Fold Plan of Education—academics, arts, athletics, and moral education—The Buckley School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#13 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

The Athenian School
The Athenian School, nestled at the base of Mt. Diablo in Danville, CA, offers an exceptional boarding and day school experience for students in grades 6-12. Founded in 1965, Athenian is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and its commitment to experiential learning, including the unique Athenian Wilderness Experience (AWE), which challenges students to develop resilience and leadership skills through outdoor adventures. The school’s 75-acre campus provides a stunning backdrop for a vibrant educational community that encourages intellectual curiosity, creativity, and personal growth. With a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and global citizenship, Athenian prepares students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

#14 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Woodside Priory School
Woodside Priory School, nestled in the serene hills of Portola Valley, CA, offers an exceptional boarding and day school experience for students in grades 6-12. As the only boarding school in Silicon Valley, Priory provides a unique blend of rigorous academics and Benedictine values, fostering a balanced and meaningful education. The school’s expansive 50-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a newly renovated boarding facility, and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from competitive athletics to a vibrant performing arts program. With a strong emphasis on community, individuality, and ethical leadership, Woodside Priory prepares students to excel in college and beyond, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a holistic and enriching educational environment.

#14 Best Private School in Los Angeles

TVT Community Day School
TVT Community Day School, located in Irvine, CA, is a top-ranked independent Jewish school offering a comprehensive education from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to character development, TVT provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive both intellectually and ethically. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, arts studios, and athletic fields, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience. With a strong emphasis on innovation, community, and Jewish values, TVT Community Day School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate leaders in their communities.

#15 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

San Francisco University High School
San Francisco University High School, located in the vibrant Pacific Heights neighborhood, offers an exceptional college-preparatory education that emphasizes intellectual challenge and personal growth. Established in 1975, the school is known for its innovative programs, including the nationally recognized Summerbridge program and the unique Independent Study opportunities that allow students to pursue self-directed learning. The campus features historic architecture by Julia Morgan, state-of-the-art STEM labs, and the newly opened Paul Goode Field in the Presidio, providing a rich environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and community engagement, San Francisco University High School prepares students to become thoughtful leaders and compassionate global citizens.

#15 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Oakwood School
Oakwood School, located in North Hollywood, CA, is a prestigious independent K-12 institution known for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence since its founding in 1951. The school offers a dynamic curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and innovative programs in arts, sciences, and humanities, fostering intellectual curiosity and creativity. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, and athletic fields, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. With a strong emphasis on community, diversity, and personal growth, Oakwood School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.