The Best Private Schools in Calabasas, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Calabasas. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Viewpoint School
Independent School
Viewpoint School is a premier independent co-educational day school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Established in 1966, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The 25-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. Viewpoint emphasizes academic excellence while fostering character development and community engagement through diverse extracurricular programs.
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Sierra Canyon School
Independent School
Sierra Canyon School is a highly regarded independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Located just minutes from Calabasas in Chatsworth, the school offers a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement offerings and specialized tracks in STEM and the arts. The campus features modern academic buildings, performing arts centers, and comprehensive athletic facilities. Sierra Canyon is known for its strong college placement record and competitive athletic programs that have produced numerous professional athletes.
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Oaks Christian School
Independent Christian School
Oaks Christian School is a prestigious independent Christian school located in nearby Westlake Village, serving students in grades 5-12. Founded in 2000, the school has quickly established itself as one of the top private institutions in the region. The 25-acre campus features cutting-edge facilities including science and technology centers, performing arts theaters, and extensive athletic complexes. Oaks Christian offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with strong emphasis on both academic excellence and spiritual development, attracting students from throughout the Calabasas area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Calabasas, California
What are the top private school options in Calabasas, CA, and what distinguishes them from one another?
Calabasas is home to several highly-regarded private schools, each with a distinct identity. **Viewpoint School** (K-12) offers a balanced, college-preparatory education with a strong emphasis on arts and community service. **Sierra Canyon School** (PK-12) is known for its robust athletic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and a nationally recognized boarding program for grades 9-12. **Oaks Christian School** (5-12), located just over the border in Westlake Village, is a popular choice for Calabasas families and is renowned for its exceptional arts and STEM programs, as well as its competitive sports teams. The choice often comes down to a family's priority on specific programs, campus culture, and educational philosophy.
How does the tuition for private schools in Calabasas, CA, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at Calabasas-area private schools is generally above the California state average for private education, reflecting the high cost of living and the premium facilities offered. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition ranges from approximately $35,000 to over $45,000 for upper grades. All major schools—Viewpoint, Sierra Canyon, and Oaks Christian—offer need-based financial aid programs. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited. Additionally, California does not have a statewide voucher or tax-credit scholarship program, so most assistance comes directly from the schools themselves or through external scholarship foundations.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Calabasas, California?
The admission process for Calabasas private schools is highly structured and begins early. Prospective families should initiate inquiries in the summer or early fall, one year before desired entry. Key steps include: attending open houses (usually September-November), submitting applications by January deadlines, completing student assessments and interviews (often in January-February), and receiving decisions in March. For the most competitive grades (like kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), waitlists are common. Given the limited seats, especially in entry-level grades, starting the process 12-18 months in advance is strongly advised.
Are there unique academic or extracurricular specializations offered by private schools in the Calabasas area that leverage the local community or industry?
Yes, Calabasas-area private schools often create programs that tap into Southern California's unique industries. Many have strong **film and digital media arts** programs, with access to professional equipment and connections to the entertainment sector. **Entrepreneurship and business** courses are also prominent, sometimes involving local business leaders as mentors. Furthermore, environmental science programs benefit from the proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains for fieldwork. Schools like Sierra Canyon and Oaks Christian have notable **sports medicine and athletic training** tracks, aligning with their emphasis on competitive athletics. These specializations provide students with practical, regionally relevant experiences.
For families in Calabasas, what are the primary considerations when choosing between the highly-rated public schools and the private school options?
The decision often hinges on several Calabasas-specific factors. The public schools in the **Las Virgenes Unified School District** (e.g., Calabasas High) are consistently top-rated, tuition-free, and offer robust programs. Choosing private school typically involves considering: **class size** (private schools offer significantly smaller ratios), **specialized programs** (like religious education or specific arts/athletic focuses not available publicly), and a **particular educational philosophy** (e.g., project-based learning). For some families, the private school community and network are deciding factors. The trade-off is the substantial financial investment versus the cost-free, high-quality public alternative. Many families recommend touring both types to feel the difference in campus culture.
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