The Best Private Schools in Glendale, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Glendale. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Flintridge Preparatory School
Independent
Flintridge Preparatory School is a highly regarded co-educational independent school serving grades 7-12. Located just minutes from Glendale in La Cañada Flintridge, the school boasts a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with 100% of graduates attending four-year colleges and universities. The school features small class sizes, exceptional faculty with advanced degrees, and state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The academic program emphasizes critical thinking, writing across disciplines, and hands-on learning experiences. Extracurricular offerings include championship athletics, extensive visual and performing arts programs, and numerous student-led clubs and organizations.
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Westridge School
Independent
Westridge School is an esteemed independent day school for girls in grades 4-12, located in nearby Pasadena and serving families throughout the Glendale area. The school is renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to educating young women to become confident, ethical leaders. The curriculum features advanced placement courses, innovative STEM programs, and extensive arts education. Campus facilities include modern science laboratories, technology-enhanced classrooms, visual and performing arts studios, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes project-based learning, community engagement, and leadership development through its comprehensive extracurricular programs and competitive athletics.
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Chandler School
Independent
Chandler School is a highly respected independent school serving students from transitional kindergarten through eighth grade. Located in Pasadena and serving Glendale families, the school provides a well-rounded education focusing on academic excellence, character development, and community values. The curriculum balances strong foundational skills in literacy and mathematics with specialized instruction in science, technology, Spanish, visual arts, music, and physical education. The school features beautiful campus facilities including dedicated science labs, art studios, performance spaces, and athletic fields. Chandler emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and a supportive learning environment that prepares students for success in high school and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Glendale, California
What are the top private school options in Glendale, CA, and what distinguishes them academically?
Glendale, CA, is home to several highly-regarded private schools, each with distinct strengths. Flintridge Preparatory School (in nearby La Cañada) is a prestigious 7-12 co-ed school known for its rigorous college-prep curriculum and strong arts and athletics. Westridge School (in Pasadena, serving many Glendale families) is an all-girls 4-12 school celebrated for its STEM-focused programs and leadership development. Chandler School (in Pasadena) is a K-8 co-ed institution praised for its balanced, nurturing environment and robust foundational academics. Many Glendale residents also consider schools within the city like Holy Family Catholic School. The proximity to Pasadena and La Cañada Flintridge expands options significantly, but transportation planning is a key local consideration.
How does tuition for private schools in the Glendale, CA, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition in the Glendale area is generally at or above the high California private school average, reflecting the region's cost of living and school reputations. For the 2024-25 school year, expect ranges of approximately $30,000-$45,000+ for upper schools like Flintridge Prep and Westridge, and $25,000-$35,000 for K-8 schools like Chandler. California's tax-advantaged 529 plans can be used for K-12 private tuition. Crucially, most top schools here have substantial financial aid endowments. Flintridge Prep, for instance, awards millions in aid annually. It's essential to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as deadlines are strict. Some local schools also offer merit scholarships.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Glendale, CA?
The process for Glendale-area schools is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, most schools open applications in August or September, one year prior. Key steps include: attending open houses (often in the fall), submitting applications by January deadlines, completing student assessments/interviews (Fall/Winter), and receiving decisions in March. Many schools, including Chandler and Flintridge Prep, require the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam). A unique local factor is sibling and legacy preferences, which are strong at these established institutions. Given the competitive nature, parents are advised to start research 18-24 months in advance, especially for middle and high school entry points.
Are there unique educational programs or specializations offered by private schools in the Glendale area that leverage Southern California's resources?
Yes, Glendale-area private schools excel at integrating regional resources into their programs. Many have strong ties to Caltech, JPL, and the arts institutions of Pasadena, offering specialized courses, internships, and guest lectures in STEM fields. Schools like Westridge have renowned robotics and engineering programs that compete nationally. Furthermore, environmental and outdoor education is emphasized, with trips to the San Gabriel Mountains, Catalina Island, and local museums. Language immersion programs (Spanish, Mandarin) are common, reflecting California's diversity. Several schools also incorporate social justice and community engagement projects focused on local Los Angeles and Glendale community needs.
How do the academic and extracurricular offerings of Glendale's private schools compare to the highly-rated Glendale Unified public school district?
This is a key local consideration. Glendale Unified (GUSD) is a top-tier public district, with schools like Clark Magnet and Crescenta Valley High offering specialized, tuition-free programs. The choice often hinges on specific needs. Private schools typically offer smaller class sizes (10-15 vs. 30+ in public), more individualized attention, and often more extensive arts and niche athletic programs. They also have greater curricular flexibility without state testing mandates. However, GUSD provides robust Advanced Placement (AP) tracks, International Baccalaureate (IB) at Glendale High, and prestigious magnet programs. For many families, the decision involves weighing the cost of private tuition against the free, high-quality public options, with the private route often chosen for a specific educational philosophy or community feel.
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