The Best Private Schools in Lakehead, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lakehead. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
University Preparatory School
University Preparatory School
University Preparatory School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving the greater Shasta County region, including Lakehead. Founded in 1975, U-Prep offers a rigorous academic program with 19 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM education, and extensive arts and athletic programs. The school features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, U-Prep consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and academic outcomes.
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St. Joseph School
Catholic Diocese of Sacramento
St. Joseph School is a Catholic parochial school providing comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade. Serving families throughout the North State region including Lakehead, the school combines faith-based education with strong academic fundamentals. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, science programs, comprehensive language arts, and religious education. Facilities include modern classrooms, computer labs, library, and athletic fields. The school emphasizes character development and community involvement alongside academic excellence.
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Siskiyou School
Siskiyou School
Siskiyou School offers Waldorf education serving families throughout Northern California, including the Lakehead area. Founded in 1994, the school provides a holistic educational approach that integrates academics with arts, music, and practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes developmental appropriateness, environmental stewardship, and creative thinking. The school features beautiful campus facilities with gardens, outdoor learning spaces, and dedicated art and music rooms. Siskiyou School is known for its strong community atmosphere and individualized attention to student development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lakehead, California
What are the primary private school options available for families in Lakehead, California, and what educational approaches do they offer?
Lakehead, CA, offers a small but distinct selection of private schools, each with a different focus. The top options include University Preparatory School (a college-preparatory day and boarding school), St. Joseph School (a Catholic parochial school offering a faith-based education), and Siskiyou School (which follows the Waldorf educational model). This range provides parents in the Shasta County area with choices between rigorous academic preparation, religious education, and holistic, arts-integrated learning, all within the unique context of a community near Shasta Lake and the surrounding wilderness.
How does tuition at Lakehead, CA private schools compare to the California state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition at Lakehead's private schools is generally below the high averages seen in major California metropolitan areas, reflecting the North State's cost of living. However, it is a significant investment for local families. For example, University Preparatory School's tuition is higher due to its boarding program and extensive facilities. Importantly, all these schools typically offer need-based financial aid, and California-specific programs like the CalGrant are not applicable for K-12 private schools. Parents should inquire directly with each school about scholarships, parish subsidies (for St. Joseph), and individualized payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Lakehead private schools offer that leverage their Northern California location?
Private schools in Lakehead uniquely integrate their spectacular natural environment into their programs. University Preparatory School emphasizes outdoor education and environmental science, with easy access to Shasta Lake and the Trinity Alps for field studies and retreats. Siskiyou School's Waldorf curriculum deeply incorporates nature studies, gardening, and hands-on learning aligned with the seasons. St. Joseph School may organize outdoor activities and service projects connected to the local community. This shared focus on the outdoors is a defining characteristic of education in this region.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Lakehead, and how competitive is admission?
Enrollment timelines in Lakehead follow the standard private school calendar, with applications typically due in January or February for the following fall. However, due to the smaller size of these schools, spaces are limited and can be competitive, especially in specific grade levels. University Prep, with its boarding program, has a national and international applicant pool. The process usually includes an application, student records review, family interview, and for some, student assessments or classroom visits. It's crucial to contact schools early, as some may have rolling admission or waiting lists depending on annual interest.
For families considering both options, what are the key differences between the Lakehead public school district and the local private schools?
The key differences lie in class size, educational philosophy, and program breadth. The local public school, Mountain Lakes High School, serves a broader rural district. Lakehead's private schools offer much smaller class sizes for personalized attention. Curricular differences are significant: University Prep focuses on intense college prep, Siskiyou on developmental Waldorf learning, and St. Joseph on Catholic values integrated with academics—options not available in the public system. Public schools are tuition-free, while private schools require financial investment but may offer more specialized programs and consistent staffing in this specific Northern California community.
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