The Best Private Schools in Inglewood, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Inglewood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Wildwood School
Wildwood School
Wildwood School is a prestigious independent K-12 school located in West Los Angeles, serving families from throughout the greater Los Angeles area including Inglewood. The school is renowned for its innovative progressive education approach that balances academic rigor with creative expression and social responsibility. Wildwood features two campuses with exceptional facilities including science laboratories, art studios, performance spaces, and athletic facilities. The school's unique advisory system and emphasis on global citizenship prepare students for success in college and beyond. With a diverse student body and strong community values, Wildwood consistently ranks among the top private schools in Southern California.
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The Willows Community School
The Willows Community School
The Willows Community School is a highly regarded progressive independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Located just minutes from Inglewood in Culver City, the school emphasizes a balanced approach to education with strong academic foundations, innovative STEAM programs, and comprehensive arts education. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, maker spaces, and extensive athletic facilities. Known for its diverse community and commitment to social-emotional learning, The Willows attracts families from throughout the Los Angeles area including Inglewood. The school maintains small class sizes and offers extensive extracurricular programs.
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View Park Preparatory Accelerated Charter Elementary School
View Park Preparatory Schools
View Park Preparatory is a highly respected charter school network serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, with many families commuting from Inglewood to their campuses. The school emphasizes academic excellence with a rigorous college preparatory curriculum and strong STEM programming. The accelerated learning model has produced exceptional academic outcomes, with nearly 100% of graduates attending four-year colleges. The school features modern facilities, competitive athletics programs, and comprehensive arts education. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to the school's strong academic results, dedicated teachers, and supportive community environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Inglewood, California
What are the primary private school options available within Inglewood, California, and how do they differ in educational approach?
Inglewood itself has a more limited number of traditional private campuses compared to surrounding areas, but notable options include The Willows Community School, which is actually located just outside Inglewood in Culver City and serves many Inglewood families. It is known for its progressive, project-based learning model. Within the broader region serving Inglewood residents, View Park Preparatory Accelerated Charter (a tuition-free public charter) and Wildwood School (in West Los Angeles) are also top considerations. The key difference is educational philosophy: The Willows emphasizes social-emotional learning and arts integration, while schools like Wildwood focus on a college-preparatory, seminar-based curriculum. Many Inglewood families also consider respected Catholic and independent schools in nearby Hawthorne, Ladera Heights, and Westchester.
How does tuition for private schools serving Inglewood, CA, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Greater Los Angeles area, including those accessible to Inglewood families, is generally above the California state average due to the high cost of living. For example, K-8 schools like The Willows can have tuition exceeding $30,000 annually, while high schools can reach $45,000+. However, most established private schools offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission. Additionally, California offers the California Credit Union School Choice Scholarship for low-income families, and some families may utilize the state's 529 plan funds for K-12 tuition. Always inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their specific aid packages and deadlines.
Are there private schools near Inglewood, CA, that offer specialized programs in STEM or the arts to compete with local magnet public schools?
Yes, several private schools in the region offer deep specialization. While Inglewood Unified School District has magnet programs, private alternatives provide distinct environments. The Willows Community School has a renowned integrated arts program and a dedicated innovation lab for hands-on STEM projects. Wildwood School’s upper campus features advanced science research facilities and partnerships with local universities. For families specifically interested in STEM, schools like the Center for Early Education in West Hollywood or St. Bernard High School in Playa del Rey offer strong tracks. A key advantage of these private programs is often smaller class sizes and more individualized project opportunities compared to the larger public magnet systems.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Los Angeles area that Inglewood families apply to?
The timeline for most competitive private schools in the Los Angeles basin is highly structured and begins over a year in advance. For fall admission, the process typically starts in August/September with open house registrations. Application deadlines are usually in January for the following academic year. Key steps include: 1) Attending fall open houses or virtual tours, 2) Submitting applications and fees by January, 3) Scheduling student assessments and family interviews in January/February, and 4) Receiving decisions in March. For Inglewood families, planning for transportation is a critical part of the process, as many schools are a commute away. It's also advisable to apply to multiple schools due to competitive spaces.
What are the unique considerations for an Inglewood, CA, family when choosing between a local public/charter school and a private school in the region?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. Inglewood families must weigh the tuition cost of private schools against the free, high-performing charter options like View Park Preparatory, which often have strong academic records. A major consideration is commute and logistics; attending a private school outside the city means navigating LA traffic, which impacts daily schedules. Culturally, families may seek a private school environment for specific values alignment, smaller class sizes, or specialized programs not available in the public system. Conversely, staying within the community public/charter system supports local involvement. It's also important to note that some private schools offer diversity initiatives and community partnerships aimed at supporting students from cities like Inglewood, which can be a significant factor in the choice.
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