Rankings - Rise Private Schools

2024 Best Private K-12 Schools

BASIS Independent Fremont, situated in the vibrant city of Fremont, CA, offers a world-class education from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. Renowned for its rigorous and globally benchmarked curriculum, the school combines advanced STEM offerings with a strong liberal arts foundation, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. The two beautiful campuses—Lower School on Kearney Street and Upper School on Mission Boulevard—provide state-of-the-art facilities that support a dynamic learning environment. With a commitment to fostering self-reliance, accountability, and a love for learning, BASIS Independent Fremont prepares students to excel in top colleges and universities worldwide.

Flintridge Preparatory School

Flintridge Preparatory School, located in La Cañada Flintridge, CA, is a highly esteemed coeducational day school serving grades 7-12. Founded in 1933, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and a two-story library, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on community, integrity, and personal growth, Flintridge Preparatory School prepares students to excel in college and beyond, nurturing well-rounded and responsible individuals.

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.

St. Mary's College High School

St. Mary’s College High School, located in Berkeley, CA, is a historic Catholic institution founded in 1863 by Archbishop Joseph Alemany. Known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, the school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and honors classes, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The 13-acre 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 community, diversity, and service, St. Mary’s College High School nurtures students to become compassionate leaders and lifelong learners.

Sacred Heart Schools Atherton

Sacred Heart Schools Atherton, located on a stunning 63-acre campus in Atherton, CA, offers a holistic education from preschool through 12th grade. Established in 1898, this prestigious Catholic institution is dedicated to nurturing the intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth of its students through a rigorous academic curriculum and a commitment to service learning. The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple athletic fields, performing arts venues, and a working farm and garden, providing a dynamic environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong emphasis on community, ethical leadership, and global citizenship, Sacred Heart Schools Atherton prepares students to excel in college and beyond, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking a comprehensive and enriching education.

Campbell Hall

Campbell Hall, located in Studio City, CA, is a prestigious independent Episcopal K-12 day school known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. Founded in 1944, the school offers a rigorous curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and innovative programs in arts, sciences, and humanities, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The 15-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, athletic fields, and the Spielberg Family Arts and Education Center, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on community, diversity, and personal growth, Campbell Hall prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#56 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Tessellations School

Tessellations School, located in Cupertino, CA, offers a unique and challenging educational experience tailored for gifted learners from preschool through 8th grade. Founded with a focus on experiential and project-based learning, the school nurtures individual strengths and encourages deep exploration of subjects through integrated humanities and science curricula known as “Journeys.” The beautiful campus includes a dedicated Nature Campus, where students engage in outdoor education, fostering a strong connection to the environment. With a commitment to social-emotional learning and a supportive community, Tessellations School empowers students to confidently express themselves and pursue meaningful lives.

#57 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Redwood Christian Schools

Redwood Christian Schools, located in Castro Valley, CA, offers a Christ-centered education for students from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. Established in 1970, the school is dedicated to equipping students for daily living and eternal life through a rigorous academic curriculum and a variety of enrichment programs. The two campuses—an elementary campus in Castro Valley and a middle/high school campus in San Lorenzo—provide state-of-the-art facilities that support a dynamic and engaging learning environment. With a strong emphasis on Christian values, community service, and personal growth, Redwood Christian Schools prepare students to excel academically and develop into compassionate leaders.

#58 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

California Crosspoint Academy

California Crosspoint Academy, located in Hayward, CA, offers a comprehensive Christian education from preschool through 12th grade. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs, the school has been awarded the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence twice, in 2003 and 2016. The 59,000 sq. ft. campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including new buildings for sports and performing arts, providing a dynamic environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong emphasis on character development, community service, and preparing students for college and beyond, California Crosspoint Academy is an excellent choice for families seeking a nurturing and challenging educational experience.

#59 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

De La Salle High School

De La Salle High School, located in Concord, CA, is a premier all-boys Catholic institution renowned for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and strong emphasis on personal development. Founded in 1965, the school is deeply rooted in the Lasallian tradition, focusing on academic excellence, faith formation, and social justice. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities and offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and extracurricular activities, including nationally recognized athletic programs. With a commitment to fostering leadership, community service, and respect for the individual, De La Salle High School prepares young men to excel in college and beyond, becoming compassionate and responsible leaders.

#60 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Mid-Peninsula High School

Mid-Peninsula High School, located in Menlo Park, CA, offers a personalized and inclusive college-preparatory education for students in grades 9-12. Established in 1979, the school is known for its flexible academic programs that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring each student can thrive. The vibrant campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and a gym, providing a dynamic environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong emphasis on community, creativity, and personal growth, Mid-Peninsula High School prepares students to excel in college and beyond, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

#61 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Contra Costa Christian Schools

Contra Costa Christian Schools, located in Walnut Creek, CA, offers a comprehensive Christian education from preschool through 12th grade. Established in 1978, the school is dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, providing a nurturing environment where students can thrive. The beautiful eight-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, athletic fields, and a performing arts center, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience. With a strong emphasis on community, character development, and preparing students for college and beyond, Contra Costa Christian Schools is an excellent choice for families seeking a well-rounded and faith-based education.

#62 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Mountain View Academy

Mountain View Academy, located in Mountain View, CA, is a distinguished Christian college-preparatory high school affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Established in 1922, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for higher education and lifelong success. The campus features modern facilities, including a gymnasium and specialized classrooms, creating an environment conducive to both academic and extracurricular excellence. With a strong emphasis on faith, community service, and personal growth, Mountain View Academy nurtures students to become compassionate leaders and responsible global citizens.

#63 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Junipero Serra High School

Junipero Serra High School, located in San Mateo, CA, is a prestigious all-boys Catholic college preparatory institution founded in 1944. 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 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, leadership, and community service, Junipero Serra High School nurtures young men to become compassionate and responsible leaders in their communities.

#64 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Presidio Knolls School

Presidio Knolls School, located in the vibrant South of Market neighborhood of San Francisco, offers a progressive Mandarin immersion education from preschool through 8th grade. Founded in 2008, the school combines a child-centered, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach with rigorous academics, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deep love for learning. The curriculum is designed around Units of Exploration, integrating subjects like English, Chinese, literacy, science, math, and social studies through hands-on, project-based learning. With a strong emphasis on social-emotional development and global citizenship, Presidio Knolls School prepares students to become confident, engaged, and compassionate leaders in an interconnected world.

#65 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Peninsula School

Peninsula School, nestled on a beautiful 6.6-acre campus in Menlo Park, CA, offers a unique and progressive education for students from nursery through 8th grade. Established in 1925, the school emphasizes intellectual curiosity, creativity, and social-emotional growth through its non-competitive, hands-on learning environment. With a rich array of specialist-led programs in fine arts, music, and outdoor education, students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop a lifelong love of learning. Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Peninsula School nurtures compassionate, confident individuals ready to make a positive impact in the world.

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.

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.

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.

Convent & Stuart Hall

Convent & Stuart Hall, located in the heart of San Francisco, offers a unique blend of single-sex and coeducational learning environments rooted in the Sacred Heart tradition. Established in 1887, this historic institution provides a comprehensive K-12 education that emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and social responsibility. The school’s modern facilities include state-of-the-art makerspaces, theaters, and gyms, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience. With a strong focus on discovery, justice, and transformation, Convent & Stuart Hall prepares students to become thoughtful, compassionate leaders ready to make a positive impact on the world.

Pacific Bay Christian School

Pacific Bay Christian School, located in the scenic coastal town of Pacifica, CA, offers a comprehensive education grounded in Christian values. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, including 17 AP courses and over 60 electives, ensuring students are well-prepared for college and beyond. The 37-acre campus provides a serene and supportive environment, featuring unique outdoor education activities such as surfing, archery, and skateboarding. With a strong focus on spiritual formation and character development, Pacific Bay Christian School nurtures students to become self-reliant, compassionate leaders ready to make a positive impact in the world.

Polytechnic School

Polytechnic School, located in Pasadena, CA, is a prestigious independent K-12 institution with a rich history dating back to 1907. Known for its rigorous academic programs, Poly offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives across its Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, art studios, and athletic fields, providing an exceptional environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on creativity, community service, and personal growth, Polytechnic School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#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

#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.

Featured School?

Coed Status

Boarding Available

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

#56 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#57 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#58 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#59 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#60 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#61 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#62 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#63 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#64 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#65 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

#11 Best Private School in Los Angeles

#11 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#12 Best Private School in Los Angeles

#12 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#13 Best Private School in Los Angeles

#13 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#14 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#14 Best Private School in Los Angeles

#15 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

#15 Best Private School in Los Angeles