The Best Private Schools in Tempe, Arizona
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Tempe. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
BASIS Scottsdale
BASIS Curriculum Schools
BASIS Scottsdale is consistently ranked among the top private schools in Arizona and nationally. Located just north of Tempe in Scottsdale, this highly selective school serves students from across the Phoenix metropolitan area. The school features an accelerated curriculum with advanced coursework beginning in middle school, extensive AP offerings, and a strong focus on STEM education. Students benefit from small class sizes, highly qualified faculty (many with advanced degrees), and a competitive academic environment that prepares graduates for top universities worldwide. The campus includes modern science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and comprehensive athletic facilities.
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Rancho Solano Preparatory School
Meritas International Family of Schools
Rancho Solano Preparatory School offers a comprehensive private education serving students from Tempe and the greater Phoenix area. As an International Baccalaureate World School, it provides both the IB Diploma Programme and a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. The school features a diverse student body, experienced faculty, and balanced approach to academics, arts, and athletics. Campus facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, performing arts centers, multiple athletic fields, and technology-rich learning environments. The school emphasizes global citizenship and character development alongside academic excellence, with graduates consistently accepted to selective colleges and universities.
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Phoenix Country Day School
Independent School
Phoenix Country Day School is a premier independent school located in nearby Paradise Valley that serves families throughout the Tempe area. The school offers a challenging academic program with extensive Advanced Placement courses, complemented by outstanding arts and athletics programs. PCDS features a beautiful 40-acre campus with modern academic buildings, multiple athletic fields, swimming pools, and dedicated arts facilities. The school maintains small class sizes and a 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention. With a strong community focus and commitment to character education, PCDS prepares students for success in college and beyond while fostering lifelong learning and leadership skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Tempe, Arizona
What are the primary private school options for families living in Tempe, Arizona, and are there any top-rated schools within a commutable distance?
While Tempe itself is home to several well-regarded private schools like Tempe Preparatory Academy and Corona del Sol Christian School, many families in Tempe also consider top-rated schools in neighboring cities due to the compact nature of the Phoenix metro area. Notably, BASIS Scottsdale (a nationally top-ranked charter school, which functions like a private school), Rancho Solano Preparatory School in Scottsdale, and Phoenix Country Day School in Paradise Valley are all within a 20-30 minute commute from most parts of Tempe. This gives Tempe parents access to a wide range of educational philosophies, from rigorous college-prep to more holistic programs, without needing to relocate.
How does Arizona's school choice programs, like the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA), affect the affordability of private schools for Tempe families?
Arizona's ESA program is a significant financial consideration for Tempe parents. It allows eligible students to use state-funded accounts to pay for private school tuition, tutoring, therapies, and other educational services. For the 2023-2024 school year, the award is approximately $7,000-$8,000 per student, which can substantially offset private school costs. However, it's crucial to note that not all private schools participate in the ESA program, and funds are dispersed quarterly to parents, not directly to the school. Families in Tempe must apply for the ESA separately from school admission and should confirm a school's participation status directly with the institution.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Tempe area that leverage local resources or industries?
Private schools in and around Tempe often create programs that connect students with the city's identity as a major university town and tech hub. For instance, several schools have robust partnerships with Arizona State University (ASU), offering dual enrollment courses, research opportunities, and access to university labs. Schools like BASIS schools emphasize STEM with a focus that aligns with the Valley's growing tech sector. Furthermore, programs in sustainability and environmental science are common, taking advantage of the Sonoran Desert setting for field studies. Performing arts schools may also utilize partnerships with the Tempe Center for the Arts.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Tempe area, and how far in advance should parents apply?
The timeline for competitive private schools in the Greater Tempe area is often earlier than many parents expect. Most prestigious day schools (like Phoenix Country Day School or Rancho Solano) have application deadlines in January or February for the following academic year. The process typically includes submitting an application, standardized testing (such as the ISEE or SSAT), school records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview or student visit day. For kindergarten entry, some schools recommend starting the process over a year in advance. It is highly advisable for Tempe parents to begin researching schools and attending open houses in the fall, 12-18 months before desired enrollment.
How do the class sizes and student-teacher ratios in Tempe's private schools compare to those in the Tempe Union High School District and Tempe Elementary School District?
This is a key differentiator. While public schools in the Tempe districts do an admirable job, they often have larger class sizes due to funding and enrollment pressures; high school classes can regularly exceed 30 students. In contrast, private schools in the area typically maintain much lower ratios. For example, Tempe Preparatory Academy averages a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and Corona del Sol Christian School reports average class sizes of 15-18. This allows for more individualized attention, differentiated instruction, and stronger student-teacher relationships, which is a primary driver for many families choosing the private school path in Tempe.
Private Education Insights
Discover the Top-Rated Private Preschools in Tempe, AZ: A Parent's Guide
As a parent in Tempe, beginning the search for the "best private preschools near me" is an exciting and significant step. The early years lay a crucial foundation for lifelong learning, and finding the right environment in our unique community is key. While Tempe itself is home to wonderful options, many families also look to the broader Valley, considering schools in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix that are within a manageable commute. This journey is about more than just proximity; it’s about finding a program whose philosophy aligns with your family’s values and sets your child on a path of joyful discovery.
When evaluating private preschools in our area, consider the educational continuum. Many top-tier private schools offer preschool programs that feed directly into their esteemed elementary and secondary divisions. For instance, BASIS Scottsdale, though located just north in Scottsdale, is renowned for its academically rigorous approach starting in the primary years. Their early learning program is designed to foster curiosity and foundational skills within a structured environment, appealing to families who envision a long-term, challenging academic path. Similarly, Rancho Solano Preparatory School, with a campus in nearby Scottsdale, offers a preschool experience that emphasizes both social-emotional development and early literacy and numeracy, all under the umbrella of their International Baccalaureate framework. This can provide a seamless, world-class education from the very start.
Another excellent consideration is Phoenix Country Day School in Paradise Valley. Their early childhood program is celebrated for its play-based, developmentally appropriate approach that balances exploration with gentle instruction. It’s a nurturing environment that prioritizes social skills and a love for learning, set on a beautiful campus. For many Tempe families, the short drive is well worth it for such a well-established program. However, don’t overlook exceptional standalone preschools within Tempe proper that offer specialized approaches, such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia, which can provide deeply immersive, child-led learning experiences right in your neighborhood.
Your search should be guided by practical local factors. Arizona’s climate means outdoor play is a year-round necessity, so visit campuses to assess their shaded play areas and outdoor learning environments. Inquire about summer programs, as the long break can be a consideration for working parents. Traffic patterns are also crucial; test the commute during drop-off hours to schools in adjacent cities. Ultimately, the "best" preschool is the one where your child feels safe, engaged, and excited to learn. Schedule visits, observe classrooms, and trust your instincts. You’ll quickly sense the community vibe—whether it’s the innovative energy of a BASIS, the globally-minded warmth of Rancho Solano, or the creative play at Phoenix Country Day. By investing time in this search now, you are choosing the first chapter of your child’s educational story in the Valley, a decision that will resonate for years to come.