The Best Private Schools in Diablo, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Diablo. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Carondelet High School
Catholic
Carondelet High School is a premier all-girls Catholic college preparatory school serving the Diablo Valley region. Established in 1965, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 22 Advanced Placement courses and comprehensive STEM initiatives. The 30-acre campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic facilities. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, Carondelet emphasizes leadership development and community service while maintaining strong college placement records. The school's partnership with De La Salle High School provides coeducational opportunities while preserving the benefits of single-gender education.
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The Athenian School
Independent
The Athenian School is a distinguished independent day and boarding school located in the foothills of Mount Diablo. Founded in 1965, Athenian offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program alongside innovative programs like the Athenian Wilderness Experience and robotics competitions. The 75-acre campus features modern academic buildings, science centers, and extensive athletic facilities. Known for its progressive educational philosophy, the school emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and hands-on learning. Athenian serves students from Diablo and surrounding communities with a commitment to diversity and academic excellence.
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Bentley School
Independent
Bentley School is a highly-regarded independent K-12 school serving the Diablo Valley area since 1975. With two campuses, the Lafayette campus serves middle and high school students with a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum featuring 18 Advanced Placement courses. The school emphasizes personalized education with small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentorship. Facilities include modern science laboratories, performing arts spaces, and competitive athletic venues. Bentley's robust extracurricular program includes championship athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service initiatives, preparing students for top-tier college placements and lifelong success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Diablo, California
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Diablo, California, and what grade levels do they serve?
Diablo itself is a small, unincorporated community, so families typically look to the surrounding Contra Costa County area for premier private schools. The most notable include The Athenian School (grades 6-12) in Danville, known for its experiential learning and global focus; Carondelet High School (grades 9-12) in Concord, an all-girls Catholic college preparatory school; and Bentley School, with campuses in Lafayette (K-8) and Oakland (9-12), offering a rigorous, co-educational program. These schools, while not within Diablo's immediate boundaries, are the primary independent and parochial options serving the community and are accessible with a short commute.
How does the tuition for top private schools in the Diablo, CA, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Diablo is generally at or above the California private school average due to the region's high cost of living and the schools' extensive resources. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect tuition ranges of approximately $55,000-$60,000 for upper schools like Athenian and Bentley, and around $25,000-$30,000 for Carondelet. All these schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. California residents should also explore the state's tax-advantaged 529 plan for K-12 expenses.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs distinguish the private schools accessible from Diablo, CA?
Schools in this region offer distinctive programs leveraging the Bay Area's innovative and natural environment. The Athenian School is renowned for its Athenian Wilderness Experience, robotics, and flight training programs. Carondelet High School emphasizes STEM and leadership through its Women in Science & Engineering (WISE) program and strong partnership with the adjacent all-boys De La Salle High School for some activities. Bentley School offers a deep commitment to arts integration and a comprehensive global studies curriculum. Their proximity to Silicon Valley and the East Bay's open spaces also enriches their science, technology, and outdoor education offerings.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Diablo area?
The admission process for schools like Athenian, Carondelet, and Bentley is highly structured and begins well in advance. The timeline typically starts in the summer or early fall before the desired enrollment year, with open houses from September to November. Application deadlines are usually in early to mid-January. The process includes a submitted application, student essays, teacher recommendations, school records, and a required student visit/interview and/or entrance exam (such as the SSAT or HSPT). Admission decisions are released in mid-March. Given the competitive nature, it is strongly advised for Diablo families to start research 12-18 months in advance and attend fall open houses.
For families in Diablo considering the choice, how do the local public school options compare to the nearby private schools?
Diablo is served by the highly regarded San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD), which includes top-rated public schools like Monte Vista High School. The comparison often centers on environment and specialization. SRVUSD schools offer excellent academic programs with significant extracurriculars at no tuition cost but with larger class sizes. Private options like Athenian, Bentley, and Carondelet provide smaller, more personalized learning communities, distinct educational philosophies (progressive, single-gender, etc.), and often more flexibility in curriculum design. The decision for Diablo families frequently comes down to seeking a specific pedagogical approach or community culture that aligns with their child's needs, versus the strong, comprehensive, and tuition-free public alternative.
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