The Best Private Schools in Concord, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Concord. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Seven Hills School
The Seven Hills School
The Seven Hills School is a highly-rated independent school serving students from Concord and surrounding communities in the East Bay. Located in nearby Walnut Creek, this progressive school offers a student-centered approach to education with project-based learning, integrated arts programs, and strong emphasis on social-emotional development. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and beautiful campus facilities including outdoor learning spaces, art studios, and science labs. With a focus on developing critical thinking skills and fostering creativity, Seven Hills prepares students for success in high school and beyond while maintaining a supportive, inclusive community environment.
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Carondelet High School
Carondelet High School
Carondelet High School is a prestigious all-girls Catholic college preparatory school known for its rigorous academic programs and strong community values. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with advanced placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive arts and athletic offerings. With modern facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes, Carondelet maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and emphasizes leadership development and community service. The school serves students throughout Contra Costa County with a focus on empowering young women through education.
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De La Salle High School
De La Salle High School
De La Salle High School is a highly-regarded all-boys Catholic college preparatory school with a national reputation for academic excellence and athletic achievement. The school features a challenging curriculum with numerous AP and honors courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong emphasis on character development and leadership. Known for its nationally recognized football program and comprehensive extracurricular offerings, De La Salle maintains small class sizes and personalized attention. The campus includes modern academic buildings, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and technology centers serving students from throughout the East Bay region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Concord, California
What are the main types of private schools available in Concord, CA, and how do they differ?
Concord, CA, offers a diverse range of private school options, primarily centered around college-preparatory and faith-based education. Notable examples include single-gender Catholic high schools like Carondelet (all-girls) and De La Salle (all-boys), which are known for their rigorous academics and strong athletic traditions. In contrast, schools like The Seven Hills School provide a co-educational, independent K-8 education with a focus on whole-child development. Additionally, the area hosts various secular and religious elementary schools, Montessori programs, and specialized learning centers. This variety allows parents in Concord to choose an environment that aligns closely with their educational philosophy and family values.
How does tuition for private schools in Concord, CA, compare to the broader Bay Area, and what financial aid options are typically available?
While still significant, tuition for private schools in Concord is generally more moderate than in many parts of the San Francisco Bay Area, such as San Francisco, Marin, or Silicon Valley. For the 2023-2024 academic year, high school tuition at schools like Carondelet or De La Salle ranges from approximately $22,000 to $25,000 annually. K-8 tuition, as at The Seven Hills School, is typically lower. Virtually all major private schools in Concord offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need, and many participate in the BASIC Fund or other California scholarship programs for lower-income families. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds are limited and the process often runs parallel to admissions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Concord that leverage the local environment?
Concord's private schools often integrate the resources and history of the East Bay into their programs. For instance, schools may incorporate environmental science studies at nearby Mount Diablo State Park or local watersheds. Historically, Carondelet and De La Salle have renowned community service programs that partner with local nonprofits in Contra Costa County. Furthermore, proximity to the vibrant arts scene in Walnut Creek and the tech influence of the Bay Area allows schools to facilitate specialized internships, STEAM collaborations, and arts partnerships. Many schools also have strong athletics programs that compete in the highly competitive East Bay Athletic League.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private high schools like Carondelet and De La Salle in Concord?
The enrollment process for Concord's top private high schools is highly structured and begins almost a full year in advance. Prospective families should attend open houses in the fall (September-October). The application deadline is usually in early January, with entrance exams (such as the HSPT) scheduled for January. Admissions decisions and financial aid awards are typically communicated in March, with enrollment contracts due shortly thereafter. It's important to note that these schools draw applicants from throughout Contra Costa and surrounding counties, making the process competitive. Sibling and legacy applicants often receive priority, so planning early is essential for Concord residents.
For a family living in Concord, what are the key considerations when choosing between a top-rated public school in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District and a local private school?
The decision often hinges on several Concord-specific factors. The public school system, including schools like Northgate High, offers a strong, tuition-free education with diverse programs. Choosing a private school in Concord may be motivated by desire for a specific religious foundation, smaller class sizes, or a particular educational philosophy (like single-gender education). Additionally, private schools often have more flexible curricula and specialized college counseling. A practical consideration is commute: a private school in Concord may offer a shorter daily drive compared to a public school outside your immediate neighborhood due to district boundaries. Ultimately, parents should assess their child's individual needs, visit both types of schools, and weigh the financial commitment against the perceived benefits of the private school environment.
Private Education Insights
Choosing the Right Private Kindergarten in Concord, CA: A Parent's Guide
As you begin the exciting journey of exploring private kindergarten options in Concord, you’ll find a landscape rich with educational philosophies and community-focused environments. The decision to invest in a private kindergarten is about more than just early academics; it’s about choosing a foundational community for your child and family. In Concord, with its blend of suburban neighborhoods and access to regional parks like Mount Diablo, many families seek educational settings that nurture curiosity and character from the very start. The notable private schools here, such as The Seven Hills School, which includes lower school grades, set a high standard for holistic education that many standalone kindergartens also strive to meet.
When researching a private kindergarten in Concord, consider the distinct educational pathways available. Some programs are play-based and developmental, emphasizing social skills and exploration, perfectly complementing a family’s weekend hike in Lime Ridge Open Space. Others may have a more structured, academic preparatory focus, designed to create a seamless continuum into esteemed local institutions. It’s wise to inquire about a school’s specific philosophy and how it translates into daily kindergarten activities. Do they incorporate outdoor learning? How is literacy introduced? The best visits will let you observe the emotional climate of the classroom—are the children engaged and treated with respectful guidance? These observations are crucial.
The practicalities of location and schedule are uniquely important in our city. Concord’s layout means commute times can vary significantly depending on whether you’re near Todos Santos Plaza, in the Dana Estates, or further east. A private kindergarten with extended care options can be a lifeline for working parents navigating commutes to nearby business centers. Additionally, many families view private kindergarten as the first step in a long-term educational plan. While Carondelet High School and De La Salle High School are premier secondary institutions, their associated feeder schools or aligned pedagogical approaches often begin with a strong early childhood program. Understanding a kindergarten’s connection, either formally or philosophically, to the broader private school network can inform your decision.
Finally, the sense of community is a paramount benefit of a Concord private kindergarten. These schools often become hubs where friendships are formed among families, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom walls. Look for schools that host family events, encourage parent participation, and have clear channels of communication. This community integration is a hallmark of the Concord area, where local identity and family values are deeply held. Choosing the right private kindergarten is an investment in your child’s first formal educational experience, setting a tone of joy, security, and discovery. By focusing on the fit between the school’s mission, your family’s values, and the practical realities of life in Contra Costa County, you can find a wonderful place where your child’s educational journey can confidently begin.
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