Exploring the Top 50 Private Elementary and Middle Schools in the United States: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right school for your child is a major decision that can influence their future. Private elementary and middle schools in the United States provide exceptional educational environments that go beyond traditional learning. These schools often feature smaller class sizes, focused attention from teachers, and innovative curricula that inspire students to develop a lifelong passion for learning.

In this guide, we will explore the top 50 private elementary and middle schools in the United States. We will highlight what sets each one apart, focusing on their educational strategies, extracurricular opportunities, and specific locations to help parents make informed choices.

Why Consider Private Schools?

Private schools offer distinct benefits that can greatly appeal to families. A primary advantage is their strong commitment to academic excellence. For instance, studies show that students in private schools often perform better on standardized tests, with about 85% of private school students meeting or exceeding proficiency in math compared to 75% in public schools.

Private institutions emphasize character education alongside academics, often offering specialized programs in areas like the arts, sciences, or technology. This focus can ignite interests that last a lifetime.

Furthermore, these schools typically provide superior resources, from advanced technologies to comprehensive libraries and well-maintained sports facilities. The involvement of parents and guardians also builds a robust community, reinforcing educational values and success.

The Top 50 Private Elementary and Middle Schools in the U.S.

1. Phillips Exeter Academy

Located in New Hampshire, Phillips Exeter Academy is famous for its challenging academic programs and a strong emphasis on character development. The school boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, ensuring personalized attention for each student.

Aerial view of Phillips Exeter Academy campus surrounded by greenery.

2. Dalton School

Situated in New York City, Dalton School is notable for its progressive educational philosophy that promotes respect and collaboration among students, contributing to a well-rounded development.

3. Horace Mann School

Also in New York, Horace Mann has a strong academic track record, with 95% of graduates going on to attend top-tier colleges and universities.

4. The Brearley School

An all-girls school in Manhattan, Brearley balances academic rigor with creative expression, encouraging girls to excel in all areas.

5. The Spence School

Another elite all-girls institution in New York, The Spence School offers diverse programs in arts and athletics, ensuring a well-rounded education.

6. Sidwell Friends School

Located in Washington D.C., Sidwell Friends emphasizes both academic excellence and character development within a Quaker framework, which promotes values of peace and community service.

7. The Chapin School

Focusing on empowering young women, The Chapin School in New York City promotes leadership and community service along with rigorous academic programs.

8. Harvard-Westlake School

Based in Los Angeles, this school features a challenging curriculum that encourages students to participate in performing arts and competitive sports, helping develop well-rounded individuals.

9. The Haverford School

As a recognized all-boys school in Pennsylvania, Haverford fosters integrity and scholarship within its tight-knit community, with 90% of graduates advancing to highly selective colleges.

10. The Greenvale School

In New York, The Greenvale School offers a holistic education, allowing students to explore their strengths through a range of subjects and activities.

11. Ethical Culture Fieldston School

This school in New York promotes a progressive education focused on ethical leadership and critical thinking, shaping socially aware and engaged citizens.

12. The Fenn School

The Fenn School in Massachusetts emphasizes exploration and curiosity, helping young boys develop a strong academic foundation while fostering personal growth.

13. The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

Renowned for its innovative teaching methods, this Chicago institution offers a curriculum designed to inspire creativity. Students here benefit from small class sizes and groundbreaking programs, with over 90% of graduates attending top universities.

14. Trinity School

Established in 1709, Trinity is among the oldest schools in the U.S., known for its academic rigor and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

15. Fieldston Lower School

Part of the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, this lower school emphasizes character development and ethical learning, ensuring a supportive environment for young students.

16. The Montclair Kimberley Academy

Located in New Jersey, this academy fosters collaboration and creativity, with exceptional arts programs and a focus on experiential learning.

17. The Lovett School

In Atlanta, The Lovett School integrates academic rigor with character development, providing a nurturing environment where students thrive.

18. St. Anne's School

This California school focuses on developing socially responsible citizens through a comprehensive educational framework that encourages community involvement.

19. The LMS School

Fostering a close-knit community, the LMS School supports students academically and socially, resulting in a nurturing learning environment.

20. The Archer School for Girls

Located in California, The Archer School provides a progressive curriculum designed to empower young women and cultivate leadership skills.

21. Saint David's School

This New York institution emphasizes the importance of spiritual and moral development alongside strong academic programs, helping students build a grounded character.

22. The Children’s School

Focusing on play-based learning, The Children’s School in Atlanta nurtures creativity and critical thinking, making learning enjoyable for young learners.

23. Riverdale Country School

Situated in New York, Riverdale's expansive campus supports outdoor learning and community service programs, fostering environmental stewardship.

Scenic view of Riverdale Country School's expansive campus with lush greenery.

24. The Hill School

Known for its rigorous curriculum in Pennsylvania, The Hill School fosters both academic excellence and a sense of family among its students.

25. The Winsor School

Another prestigious all-girls school in Boston, Winsor emphasizes academic excellence and leadership skills, preparing students for success in all spheres of life.

26. Friends Seminary

This Quaker school in New York encourages academic achievement while promoting principles of social responsibility and community engagement.

27. The Boston Latin School

One of the oldest public schools in the country, Boston Latin is recognized for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, with a graduation rate of over 98%.

28. The Nightingale-Bamford School

Focusing on rigorous academics and personal growth, this all-girls school in New York nurtures young women in a supportive environment.

29. The Buckley School

Located in New York, The Buckley School highlights character development and community service alongside a solid academic foundation.

30. The Stephen Gaynor School

This New York institution supports students with diverse learning needs by offering customized educational approaches aimed at maximizing each child's potential.

31. Windward School

Specializing in educating students with learning differences, Windward School in California implements innovative teaching strategies that help all students succeed.

32. St. Bernard’s School

This all-boys school in New York focuses on character development and leadership alongside its rigorous academic curriculum, successfully preparing students for future challenges.

33. Montclair School

A diverse curriculum combined with a strong focus on community engagement and character-building marks this New Jersey institution as a nurturing environment for all students.

34. The Dalton School

Recognized for its exceptional educational approach, this Manhattan school promotes interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking, ensuring students are well-prepared for future challenges.

35. The Chapin School

Through its empowering programs, Chapin invests in young women's leadership potential while providing a solid academic education.

36. The Windsorst School

Located in New York, Windsorst is devoted to offering a thorough and comprehensive educational experience that nurtures each child's strengths.

37. The Lycée Français de New York

This bilingual school emphasizes cultural diversity with a French-American curriculum that prepares students for a globalized world.

38. The Calhoun School

A progressive institution in New York, Calhoun is committed to creativity and social justice, encouraging students to engage with important contemporary issues.

39. The Children's House

Located in Illinois, this school adopts a holistic approach to education, fostering creativity and critical thinking through a nurturing environment.

40. The Shipley School

Based in Pennsylvania, The Shipley School promotes academic excellence while fostering a supportive and engaged community atmosphere.

41. The Greenhill School

Another distinguished school in Texas, Greenhill offers diverse programs designed to develop the whole child, blending academics with arts and athletics.

42. The Crystal Springs Uplands School

Located in California, Crystal Springs emphasizes collaboration in learning, helping students grow socially and emotionally alongside their academic pursuits.

43. The Hamlin School

This all-girls school in California encourages independence and strong thinking skills, preparing students for future leadership roles.

44. The Isidore Newman School

In New Orleans, Isidore Newman offers a rich arts and sciences curriculum that creates a strong community atmosphere among students.

45. The Weilenmann School of Discovery

Founded in Utah, this institution's project-based learning curriculum emphasizes creativity and critical thinking, engaging students in real-world problem-solving.

46. The San Francisco Day School

Combining strong academics with vibrant arts and athletics programs, The San Francisco Day School aims for a balanced approach to education.

47. The Peaceful Valley School

Focusing on environmental education, Peaceful Valley incorporates sustainability into its core curriculum, advocating for future generations to be eco-conscious.

48. The St. Paul Academy and Summit School

With a foundation in both liberal arts and sciences, St. Paul Academy provides a well-rounded education, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.

49. The Rippowam Cisqua School

This New York school emphasizes a unique combination of academic rigor and character development, creating a connected community for students to thrive.

50. The Davidson Academy

Dedicated to gifted students, Davidson Academy tailors educational programs to nurture exceptional talents, fostering intellectual growth in a supportive atmosphere.

Your Path to the Right Educational Fit

The landscape of private elementary and middle schools in the United States is diverse, with each institution offering something unique. Some focus on progressive educational philosophies while others excel in sports or the arts.

When choosing a school, consider your child's individual needs, strengths, and interests. The list of top 50 private schools serves as a useful starting point for parents wanting to find the best educational environment for their children.

Remember, the right school can greatly influence your child's formative years, shaping not only academic success but also personal character and future aspirations. Exploring these institutions is a vital step in unlocking your child's potential and providing them with a fulfilling educational journey.