The Best Private Schools in Edwards, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Edwards. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Learning Experience - Santa Clarita Valley
The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education
The Learning Experience in Santa Clarita Valley serves families throughout the region, including those from Edwards seeking high-quality early childhood education. This nationally accredited preschool offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. The school features purpose-built classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and innovative learning technology. Their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum incorporates phonics, mathematics, and science with character development programs, preparing students for elementary school success.
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Garces Memorial High School
Diocese of Fresno
Garces Memorial High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving the greater Kern County area, including Edwards. With a 78-year history of academic excellence, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum with 22 Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics programs, and extensive arts education. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement.
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Heritage Oak Private School
Merryhill Schools
Heritage Oak Private School provides comprehensive education from preschool through middle school, serving families throughout Kern County including Edwards. The school emphasizes academic rigor with small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a well-rounded curriculum. Facilities include science laboratories, computer labs, art studios, music rooms, and athletic fields. The school maintains high academic standards with a focus on preparing students for competitive high school programs, offering advanced coursework and enrichment opportunities across all grade levels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Edwards, California
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Edwards, California?
While Edwards itself is a smaller community, families typically look to nearby areas for private education. The closest notable options include Garces Memorial High School (a Catholic, co-ed high school in Bakersfield, about a 40-minute drive), Heritage Oak Private School (a private K-8 in Tehachapi, roughly a 30-minute drive), and The Learning Experience - Santa Clarita Valley (an early education center in Valencia, over an hour away). Due to Edwards' location in Kern County near Edwards Air Force Base, many families also consider schools in the Lancaster/Palmdale area or explore homeschooling cooperatives. It's important to note that daily commuting to these schools is a significant logistical consideration for Edwards residents.
How does the tuition for private schools near Edwards, CA, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for private schools in the regions surrounding Edwards is generally slightly below the high-cost coastal averages of California but is a major household consideration. For the 2023-2024 school year, Garces Memorial High School tuition is approximately $11,000-$13,000, while Heritage Oak Private School's K-8 tuition ranges from $7,000 to $9,000. Most schools offer need-based financial aid, and California families should actively investigate the California Tax Credit Scholarship program, which can provide significant assistance based on income. Additionally, military families stationed at Edwards AFB may find that some schools offer specific scholarships or discounts for service members.
Are there private schools near Edwards, CA, that offer specialized programs in STEM or aerospace, given the area's connection to aviation and technology?
Yes, the local private schools leverage the region's aerospace identity. Garces Memorial High School in Bakersfield has a robust Engineering and Design Pathway and advanced STEM coursework that can align with interests fostered by the Edwards AFB environment. Heritage Oak Private School emphasizes a strong foundational curriculum in math and science. Furthermore, several schools participate in regional science fairs and competitions that often have themes or judges connected to the aerospace industry. While no private school in the immediate area is exclusively STEM-focused, their programs are designed to support students whose families are involved in the tech and aviation sectors prevalent in the Antelope Valley and Kern County.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Edwards community, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for schools like Garces Memorial and Heritage Oak Private School usually begins in the fall or early winter for the following academic year. Open houses are held from October to January, with application deadlines typically in February or March. Due to the limited number of private school seats in the region relative to demand, especially in the lower and middle grades, waitlists are common. It is highly advisable for Edwards families to begin research and campus visits at least a year in advance. Key steps include submitting an application, student assessment or shadow day, family interview, and providing previous school records. Rolling admission may be available if spots remain.
How do private schools near Edwards accommodate the unique needs of military families who may be temporarily stationed at Edwards Air Force Base?
Private schools in the area are accustomed to the transient nature of military families. Garces Memorial High School and Heritage Oak Private School have streamlined enrollment processes to accept transfer records and conduct placement assessments mid-year. They often offer pro-rated tuition for families arriving after the start of the school year. These schools also provide social-emotional support to help students integrate quickly, and they participate in activities that connect with the base community. When considering a school, military families should inquire about their experience with PCS moves, flexibility with withdrawal notices, and whether they accept the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission (MIC3) provisions to ease transitions.
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