The Best Private Schools in Lakewood, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lakewood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. John Bosco High School
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Located just minutes from Lakewood in Bellflower, St. John Bosco High School is an all-boys Catholic college preparatory school known for academic excellence and championship athletics. The school features state-of-the-art STEM facilities including engineering labs, a comprehensive robotics program, and advanced science laboratories. Bosco offers 22 AP courses and maintains a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. The school's athletic programs, particularly football and basketball, have gained national recognition. The campus includes modern academic buildings, extensive athletic facilities, and dedicated spaces for visual and performing arts.
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St. Joseph High School
Catholic Diocese of Orange
St. Joseph High School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving Lakewood and surrounding communities. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 21 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM curriculum. The campus features modern science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, the school emphasizes personalized education and character development. Over 99% of graduates attend four-year colleges and universities, with strong placement in top institutions nationwide.
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St. Anthony High School
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
St. Anthony High School, located in nearby Long Beach, serves the greater Lakewood area with a comprehensive college preparatory program including the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. As one of the oldest private schools in the region, it combines tradition with innovation through modern STEM facilities, advanced technology integration, and competitive athletic programs. The school offers a diverse curriculum with extensive AP and IB options, maintaining a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. The historic campus has been continuously updated with modern academic facilities while preserving its traditional architecture and community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lakewood, California
What are the main types of private schools available to families in Lakewood, California?
Lakewood, CA, is served by several well-regarded private institutions, primarily Catholic college-preparatory high schools. The notable options include St. John Bosco High School (all-boys), St. Joseph High School (co-ed), and St. Anthony High School (co-ed). While Lakewood itself has a strong public school district (Long Beach Unified), these nearby private schools attract families seeking a faith-based education with rigorous academics and competitive athletic programs. For younger grades, families often look at private elementary and middle schools in surrounding Long Beach and Cerritos.
How does tuition for private high schools in the Lakewood, CA, area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the top private high schools near Lakewood generally ranges from approximately $12,000 to $18,000 per year. California's high cost of living is reflected in these figures. All the major schools—St. John Bosco, St. Joseph, and St. Anthony—offer substantial financial aid and scholarship programs based on need, merit, and for parish members. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often align with admissions applications. Additionally, California's tax-advantaged 529 plans can be used for K-12 private school tuition, providing a state-specific financial planning benefit.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs distinguish private schools in the Lakewood area?
Private schools in the Lakewood vicinity are known for distinct specializations. St. John Bosco High School has a nationally recognized engineering and STEM program (The Bravo Institute) and elite athletics, particularly in football and wrestling. St. Joseph High School offers a strong International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and renowned visual and performing arts. St. Anthony High School features a competitive Biomedical Science pathway and a comprehensive college counseling program. These specialized tracks provide college-ready depth that is a key draw for Los Angeles County families.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private high schools serving Lakewood, California students?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, applications for schools like Bosco, St. Joseph, and St. Anthony typically open in August or September of the preceding year, with deadlines between December and January. The process includes submitting transcripts, teacher recommendations, a personal essay, and often requiring the HSPT (High School Placement Test) taken in January. Admissions and financial aid decisions are usually released in March. Given the competitive nature, especially for incoming 9th graders, starting research and campus visits in the spring of 7th grade is a common strategy for Lakewood-area parents.
For a family living in Lakewood, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools and these private options?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and specific program offerings. Lakewood is part of the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD), which is highly rated and offers diverse programs like AP courses and academies. Private options provide a faith-based environment (if desired), smaller average class sizes, and a focused college-prep culture with high matriculation rates to four-year universities. Transportation is a practical factor, as the private schools are located in Bellflower (Bosco, St. Joseph) and Long Beach (St. Anthony), requiring a commute. Ultimately, the choice involves weighing the cost of tuition against the value of the specific environment and specialized programs that align with a student's goals.
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