The Best Private Schools in Altadena, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Altadena. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Polytechnic School
Independent
Polytechnic School is one of the most prestigious independent day schools in Southern California, serving students from Altadena and surrounding communities. Founded in 1907, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional academic programs across all divisions. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Polytechnic emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community engagement, with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 ensuring personalized attention. The school maintains strong college placement records and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities in arts, athletics, and community service.
Programs:
Chandler School
Independent
Chandler School has been serving Altadena and Pasadena area families since 1940, providing a comprehensive K-8 education focused on academic excellence and character development. The school features a balanced curriculum that integrates traditional academic subjects with innovative technology and arts programs. Chandler's 14-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive community environment. Chandler graduates consistently gain admission to top secondary schools, and the school maintains strong parent satisfaction through its commitment to whole-child education and community partnerships.
Programs:
Westridge School
Independent
Westridge School is a highly respected independent day school for girls in grades 4-12 that serves families from Altadena and the greater Pasadena area. Founded in 1913, the school provides a challenging academic program specifically designed to empower young women through STEM education, leadership development, and global perspectives. The campus features advanced science laboratories, technology-rich classrooms, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. Westridge emphasizes project-based learning, interdisciplinary studies, and community engagement, with a strong track record of college placements at selective institutions. The school's commitment to fostering confidence and intellectual curiosity in young women has made it a top choice for families seeking exceptional all-girls education.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Altadena, California
What are the main types of private schools available in Altadena, CA, and how do they differ?
Altadena, CA, offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily independent day schools. The top institutions, like Polytechnic School (Pasadena/Altadena border), Chandler School (Pasadena, serving Altadena), and Westridge School (Pasadena, all-girls), are known for rigorous college-preparatory curricula. You'll also find smaller parochial schools and specialized programs. The key difference from public schools in the Pasadena Unified School District (which serves Altadena) is often smaller class sizes, a specific educational philosophy (e.g., progressive, traditional), and greater programmatic flexibility. Many Altadena families choose schools in neighboring Pasadena due to the concentration of highly-ranked options.
How does the competitive admissions process work for top private schools like Polytechnic, Chandler, and Westridge for Altadena residents?
The admissions process for these sought-after schools is highly competitive and typically begins over a year in advance. For entry points like Kindergarten, 6th, or 9th grade, applications are usually due in January for the following fall. The process involves a written application, school records, teacher recommendations, standardized testing (such as the ISEE), and a mandatory family/student interview and campus tour. As an Altadena resident, demonstrating a genuine connection to the school's community and mission is crucial. It's common for families to apply to multiple schools. Engaging with admissions offices in the spring or summer before the application deadline is strongly advised.
What is the typical tuition range for private schools serving Altadena, CA, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for day schools in the Altadena/Pasadena area is among the highest in California, reflecting operational costs and faculty salaries. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect tuition to range from approximately $35,000 to over $45,000 annually for grades K-12. Most schools, including Polytechnic, Chandler, and Westridge, have robust need-based financial aid programs, with a significant percentage of students receiving grants that do not require repayment. Aid is determined through a third-party assessment (like SSS by NAIS) of family financial information. California does not have state-funded voucher programs for private schools, so aid is exclusively provided by the institutions themselves.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Altadena area that leverage the local environment?
Schools in the Altadena foothills leverage their proximity to unique resources. Many have strong outdoor and environmental science programs that utilize the nearby Angeles National Forest and local trails for fieldwork. Robotics and STEM programs often partner with Caltech and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), both a short drive away, for mentorship and competitions. Arts programs frequently collaborate with the Norton Simon Museum or the Pasadena Playhouse. Additionally, the diverse cultural landscape of the San Gabriel Valley informs robust world language programs and community service opportunities that are deeply integrated into the local community.
As an Altadena parent, how should I weigh the option of my local high-performing public school versus a private independent school?
This is a key consideration in Altadena. The public school option is the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), which includes high-performing magnet programs like the Pasadena High School International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The decision often hinges on individual child needs, educational philosophy, and resources. Private schools offer consistency in curriculum, smaller class sizes, and often more extensive arts, athletics, and college counseling. Public schools provide greater socioeconomic diversity and no tuition. Many Altadena families consider both, visiting schools like Eliot Arts Magnet or applying to PUSD's choice programs while also exploring private options. The unique "feel" and specific fit for your child are paramount.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities