The Best Private Schools in Big Bear Lake, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Big Bear Lake. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Redlands Christian School
Redlands Christian Schools
Redlands Christian School is a top-rated private institution serving the Big Bear Lake region from nearby Redlands, known for its strong academic programs and holistic education approach. The school offers a college-preparatory curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, robust arts programs, and competitive athletics. Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, performing arts centers, and sports complexes. With a focus on spiritual growth and community service, it has high parent satisfaction due to dedicated faculty, extensive extracurriculars, and a track record of graduates attending prestigious universities. Transportation options and regional outreach make it accessible to families in Big Bear Lake.
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Big Bear Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Big Bear Christian Academy is a highly-regarded private school located directly in Big Bear Lake, offering a comprehensive Christ-centered education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence with small class sizes, individualized attention, and a rigorous curriculum that includes STEM, literature, and biblical studies. Facilities include modern classrooms, a science lab, and athletic fields. Extracurricular programs feature sports teams, music, drama, and community service opportunities. Parent satisfaction is high due to strong teacher-student relationships and a supportive community environment focused on character development and college preparation.
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Arrowhead Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Arrowhead Christian Academy is a reputable private school in San Bernardino that serves students from Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountain communities. It provides a rigorous academic environment with a focus on college readiness, including honors and AP courses, alongside faith-based leadership and mission programs. The campus features updated technology labs, athletic fields, and arts facilities. Extracurricular activities include sports, music, and clubs that foster student engagement. High parent ratings reflect satisfaction with its safe environment, experienced teachers, and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for higher education and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Big Bear Lake, California
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Big Bear Lake, California?
Within the Big Bear Lake area itself, the main option is the Big Bear Christian Academy, which serves grades K-8. For high school, families often look to schools in surrounding valleys. Popular choices include Arrowhead Christian Academy in Redlands (K-12) and Redlands Christian Schools (multiple campuses, Pre-K-12), both requiring a commute down the mountain. The selection is limited compared to urban areas, so many Big Bear Lake families consider this geographic factor central to their decision-making, balancing the local community school with longer commutes to larger institutions.
How does the mountain location of Big Bear Lake, CA, impact the private school experience and logistics?
The mountain environment uniquely shapes the private school experience in Big Bear Lake. Schools like Big Bear Christian Academy often incorporate local ecology and outdoor education into their programs. Logistically, winter weather and road conditions on State Route 18 and 330 are critical considerations for families commuting to schools in Redlands or San Bernardino. This can affect transportation, school start delays, and attendance. It's essential for parents to discuss snow-day policies and transportation plans with any school, especially those requiring a mountain commute.
What is the typical tuition range for private schools serving Big Bear Lake, CA, families, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition varies significantly between the local academy and the larger schools in the lowlands. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Big Bear Christian Academy's tuition is approximately $6,000-$8,000 annually. In contrast, Arrowhead Christian Academy and Redlands Christian Schools have tuition ranging from $10,000 to $18,000+ for higher grades. Most schools offer need-based financial aid, and California's tax-advantaged 529 plans can be used for K-12 private tuition. It's highly recommended to inquire directly about aid, scholarships, and multi-child discounts, as these can substantially affect the net cost.
For families in Big Bear Lake, what are the key enrollment timelines and procedures for local and commuter private schools?
Timelines differ by school. For Big Bear Christian Academy, enrollment often begins in early spring for the following fall, with rolling admission if spaces remain. For the more competitive schools in Redlands (like RCS and ACA), the process typically starts a full year in advance, with application deadlines in January or February for the next fall. These schools may require entrance exams, interviews, and pastor recommendations. Given the limited seats and planning required for a potential commute, initiating inquiries 12-18 months ahead is advisable for Big Bear Lake parents.
How do private schools accessible to Big Bear Lake families support students with interests in outdoor sports or environmental science?
Private schools in this region often leverage their unique setting. Big Bear Christian Academy may integrate local field studies. Schools like Arrowhead Christian Academy, while in the valley, often have robust athletic programs and may facilitate participation in mountain sports. Furthermore, their science curricula frequently include trips to mountain ecosystems. Parents should ask specific questions about elective offerings, club opportunities (like skiing or environmental clubs), and how the curriculum connects to the natural resources of the Big Bear region, which can be a significant differentiator from urban private schools.
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