Rankings - Rise Private Schools

2024 Best Private K-12 Schools

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.

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.

Mount Tamalpais School

Mount Tamalpais School, located in the picturesque town of Mill Valley, CA, offers a comprehensive K-8 education that emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth. Founded in 1976, the school is dedicated to fostering a love of learning through a vigorous, creative, and process-driven curriculum. Students benefit from a unique educational approach where they move between specialized subject classrooms, keeping energy levels high and engagement strong. With a strong focus on kindness, integrity, respect, and self-reliance, Mount Tamalpais School prepares students to excel academically while remaining young at heart, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a nurturing and dynamic educational environment.

Lycée Français de San Francisco

Lycée Français de San Francisco (LFSF), with campuses in San Francisco and Marin, offers a premier bilingual education from preschool through 12th grade. Established as a leading French immersion school, LFSF combines rigorous academics with a multicultural environment, preparing students to excel in both the French Baccalaureate and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. The school’s vibrant community embraces over 50 nationalities and 30 languages, fostering a global perspective and deep cultural understanding. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to nurturing adaptable, innovative thinkers, LFSF equips students to make meaningful contributions to an ever-changing world.

Harvard-Westlake School

Harvard-Westlake School, located in Los Angeles, CA, is a prestigious independent co-educational university preparatory day school with a rich history dating back to 1900. The school spans two campuses: the Middle School in Holmby Hills and the Upper School in Studio City, offering a rigorous academic curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement and honors courses. The state-of-the-art facilities feature modern science labs, performing arts centers, athletic fields, and a newly renovated library, providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment. With a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity, leadership, and community service, Harvard-Westlake School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate leaders in their communities.

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.

#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.

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.

Bellarmine College Preparatory

Bellarmine College Preparatory, located in the College Park neighborhood of San Jose, CA, is a prestigious all-boys Jesuit high school with a rich history dating back to 1851. Known for its rigorous academic programs, Bellarmine offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, unique electives like Marine Chemistry, and nationally recognized extracurriculars such as the award-winning Robotics Team 254: The Cheesy Poofs. The school’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its LEED Gold-certified buildings and eco-friendly initiatives, fostering an environment of environmental stewardship. With a strong emphasis on community service and spiritual growth, Bellarmine prepares young men to become compassionate leaders and responsible global citizens, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking a holistic and impactful education.

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, located in La Cañada Flintridge, CA, is a prestigious Catholic all-girls day and boarding high school founded in 1931 by the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose. Nestled on a stunning 41-acre campus near the San Gabriel Mountains, the school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, a gymnasium, an aerobics room, and a multipurpose athletic field, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular pursuits. With a strong emphasis on faith, community service, and personal growth, Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy prepares young women to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities.

Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School

Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School, located in the charming city of Alameda, CA, offers a dynamic and rigorous college preparatory education within a faith-filled and diverse community. Established in 1881, the school has a rich history of nurturing students to become confident, open-minded leaders who are ready to live lives of faith, scholarship, and service. The beautiful tree-lined campus provides a warm and nurturing environment, where students engage in a wide array of academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs. With a strong emphasis on justice, equity, and community service, Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School prepares students to excel in college and make meaningful contributions to the world.

Elite Open School

Elite Open School, located in Rowland Heights, CA, offers a cutting-edge blended learning experience for students in grades K-12. Established in 2016, the school is known for its personalized approach to education, providing a diverse range of UC-approved college prep, honors, Advanced Placement, and dual credit courses. The innovative curriculum leverages technology, including AI-augmented math and science supplements, to ensure students achieve mastery in their subjects. With a strong emphasis on flexibility, academic rigor, and individual passions, Elite Open School prepares students for college and beyond, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

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.

#21 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Bentley School

Bentley School, with campuses in Lafayette and Oakland, CA, offers an exceptional K-12 education that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. Celebrating over 100 years of educational leadership, Bentley provides a dynamic curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, college-level seminars, and a variety of extracurricular activities. The school’s beautiful campuses feature state-of-the-art facilities such as an outdoor garden, maker studio, and athletic fields, creating an inspiring environment for students to explore their interests and talents. Bentley’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community ensures that students are well-prepared for college and beyond, making it an outstanding choice for families seeking a comprehensive and enriching education.

#21 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Oaks Christian School

Oaks Christian School, located in Westlake Village, CA, is a premier co-educational college-preparatory institution serving grades 4-12. Established in 2000, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique programs in arts, engineering, and global leadership. The 25-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic fields, and the Bedrosian Pavilion for performing arts, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. With a strong emphasis on faith, character development, and community service, Oaks Christian School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders.

#22 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

San Domenico School

San Domenico School, located on a picturesque 515-acre campus in San Anselmo, CA, offers a transformative K-12 education rooted in the Dominican values of study, reflection, community, and service. As California’s oldest independent school, San Domenico combines rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on personal growth and ethical leadership. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, including a world-class music conservatory, an equestrian center, and extensive athletic amenities, providing students with a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests. With a commitment to sustainability and a diverse, inclusive community, San Domenico prepares students to excel in college and beyond, fostering a lifelong love of learning and a deep sense of purpose.

#22 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy

#23 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

French American International School

French American International School, located in the heart of San Francisco, offers a world-class bilingual education from preschool through 12th grade. Combining the best of French and American educational systems, the school provides a rigorous academic program that emphasizes deep understanding and cross-cultural cognition. Students benefit from a vibrant, multilingual community and have the opportunity to pursue both the French Baccalaureate and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. With a strong focus on global education, students at French American International School engage in international expeditions and diverse extracurricular activities, preparing them to become thoughtful and compassionate global citizens.

#23 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Brentwood School

Brentwood School, located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, CA, is a top-tier independent co-educational K-12 day school known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. The school offers a rigorous curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement courses, innovative class projects, and independent studies through the Brentwood Center for Innovation and Learning (BCIL). The beautiful dual-campus setting features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces, providing an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong emphasis on community, creativity, and leadership, Brentwood School prepares students to excel in higher education and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities.

#24 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

Pinewood School

Pinewood School, with campuses in Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, CA, offers a comprehensive K-12 education that emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth. Founded in 1959, Pinewood combines a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a strong focus on the arts, athletics, and community service. The school’s beautiful campuses feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a performing arts center, athletic fields, and innovative learning spaces that inspire creativity and collaboration. With a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community, Pinewood School prepares students for success in college and beyond, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.

#24 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Elite Open School

#25 Best Private School in Los Angeles

Pacific Academy - Irvine

Pacific Academy, located in Irvine, CA, offers an innovative and personalized K-12 education that emphasizes applied and project-based learning. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the school provides a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and unique electives, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities and a robust Chinese Immersion program, fostering a dynamic and multicultural learning environment. With a strong focus on character development, community service, and individual passions, Pacific Academy prepares students to excel academically and become compassionate, responsible leaders in their communities.

#25 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

The Bay School of San Francisco

The Bay School of San Francisco, located in the scenic Presidio National Park, offers a cutting-edge college preparatory education for high school students. Founded in 2004, the school emphasizes a rigorous and interdisciplinary curriculum that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. Students benefit from the unique “Immersive” terms, where they engage deeply in a single subject for three weeks, allowing for hands-on, project-based learning. With a strong commitment to community and sustainability, The Bay School prepares its students to excel academically and become compassionate, innovative leaders in a rapidly changing world.

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#21 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area

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#24 Best Private School in Los Angeles

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#25 Best Private School in the SF Bay Area