The Best Private Schools in Monrovia, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Monrovia. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Chandler School
Independent School
Chandler School is a highly prestigious independent K-8 day school serving Monrovia and the greater Pasadena area. The school is renowned for its balanced approach to education, combining academic excellence with character development. The 16-acre campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, music rooms, and extensive athletic facilities. Chandler's curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, preparing students for top secondary schools. The school maintains small class sizes with a 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio and offers extensive extracurricular programs including competitive sports, performing arts, and community service opportunities.
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St. Lucy's Priory High School
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles
St. Lucy's Priory High School is a highly-regarded all-girls Catholic college preparatory school serving Monrovia and the greater San Gabriel Valley. Founded by the Benedictine Sisters, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 100% college acceptance rate. The 14-acre campus features modern science labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, art studios, and athletic facilities. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and comprehensive college counseling. The school emphasizes leadership development, community service, and spiritual growth within a supportive environment.
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Mayfield Senior School
Independent Catholic School
Mayfield Senior School is an elite independent Catholic college preparatory school for girls located in Pasadena, serving students from Monrovia and throughout the San Gabriel Valley. The school offers a challenging academic curriculum with 23 Advanced Placement courses and maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. The historic 8-acre campus features state-of-the-art science centers, innovation labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Mayfield emphasizes intellectual curiosity, spiritual growth, and leadership development through its Holy Child educational philosophy. The school is known for its strong sense of community and outstanding faculty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Monrovia, California
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Monrovia, California, and what grade levels do they serve?
Monrovia itself is home to a few notable private schools, with several other highly-regarded institutions located in the immediate surrounding cities of the San Gabriel Valley. Within Monrovia, you'll find schools like St. Lucy's Priory High School, an all-girls Catholic school for grades 9-12. Just outside the city limits, in nearby Pasadena and Altadena, are options like the co-educational Mayfield Senior School (grades 9-12) and Chandler School (grades K-8). This means Monrovia families often consider a regional mix of schools, with elementary, middle, and high school options available within a short commute.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Monrovia, CA area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for day schools in the Monrovia region is generally at or above the California private school average, reflecting the high cost of living and operational expenses in the Los Angeles area. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $25,000 to $40,000+ for high schools and $20,000 to $30,000+ for K-8 schools. Importantly, most established schools like St. Lucy's, Mayfield, and Chandler offer robust need-based financial aid programs. It is crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are limited. California also has tax-advantaged savings options like the ScholarShare 529 plan that can be used for K-12 private tuition.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Monrovia area that leverage Southern California's resources?
Private schools in the Monrovia and greater San Gabriel Valley area often feature programs that capitalize on the region's strengths. Many emphasize STEM partnerships with local institutions like Caltech and JPL, offering advanced research opportunities. Schools like Mayfield Senior School have strong visual and performing arts programs connected to Pasadena's vibrant arts scene. Furthermore, the climate and geography allow for unique outdoor education and athletic programs, with several schools having extensive campus facilities or easy access to the San Gabriel Mountains for environmental science and recreation.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools like St. Lucy's or Mayfield Senior School that serve Monrovia students?
The admission process for top-tier private high schools in the Monrovia area is highly structured and begins well over a year in advance. The standard timeline starts in the summer or early fall of a student's 8th grade year with open houses and campus tours. Application deadlines are typically in early to mid-January for the following fall. The process almost always includes a submitted application, teacher recommendations, transcripts, a student essay, a standardized test (like the HSPT or ISEE), and a required student interview. Notifications are usually released in mid-March. It is essential to check each school's website for exact dates, as they can vary.
For families considering both, what are some key differences between the Monrovia Unified public school district and the private school options in the area?
The choice between Monrovia Unified School District (MUSD) and local private schools involves several considerations. MUSD offers a tuition-free, neighborhood-based education with diverse programs, including its renowned Monrovia High School, which has strong academics and extracurriculars. Private schools offer smaller class sizes, often more individualized attention, and distinct educational philosophies (e.g., single-gender, religious affiliation, or progressive pedagogy). They may also have more flexibility in curriculum and fewer budget constraints on specific programs. The decision often comes down to a family's priorities regarding class size, specific academic or religious focus, community environment, and budget, weighing the investment in private tuition against the free public option.
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