The Best Private Schools in Moraga, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Moraga. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Seven Hills School
Independent
The Seven Hills School is a highly-regarded independent school serving the Lamorinda area with a progressive, whole-child educational approach. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and character development across its Pre-K through 8th grade programs. Their comprehensive curriculum includes robust STEAM education, daily Spanish instruction starting in Pre-K, extensive arts programs, and outdoor education that utilizes their beautiful campus. The school is known for small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong sense of community that prepares students for top high schools and beyond.
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The Saklan School
Independent
The Saklan School is Moraga's local independent school offering a dynamic Pre-K through 8th grade education focused on project-based learning and social-emotional development. Located in the heart of Moraga, the school provides a nurturing environment with small class sizes and individualized attention. Their innovative curriculum includes hands-on STEM education, Spanish language instruction from Pre-K, comprehensive arts programs, and outdoor learning experiences. The school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, preparing students for success in high school and developing lifelong learners who are confident and compassionate individuals.
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Bentley School
Independent
Bentley School is a prestigious K-12 independent college preparatory school with campuses in Lafayette and Oakland. Serving the Lamorinda community for decades, Bentley offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. The school features comprehensive Advanced Placement courses, extensive visual and performing arts programs, competitive athletics, and numerous extracurricular opportunities. With a focus on developing ethical leaders and critical thinkers, Bentley graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities. The school's beautiful hilltop campus provides state-of-the-art facilities for academic and co-curricular programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Moraga, California
What are the primary private school options available within Moraga, California, and what are their educational philosophies?
Moraga itself is home to a select number of private institutions, most notably The Seven Hills School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade with a focus on experiential learning and social-emotional development. While Bentley School's upper school campus is located in nearby Lafayette, it is a key option for Moraga families seeking a rigorous college-preparatory (K-12) education. The Saklan School in Moraga offers a progressive, project-based learning environment for preschool through 8th grade. Due to Moraga's size, many families also consider excellent private schools in neighboring Lamorinda (Lafayette, Orinda) and Walnut Creek, expanding the range of religious, Montessori, and independent school choices within a short commute.
How does tuition for private schools in the Moraga, CA area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for Moraga-area private schools is generally at or above the California state average for independent schools, reflecting the high cost of living in the Bay Area. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range of approximately $30,000 to $50,000+ for K-8 day schools, with high school tuition often higher. All major schools like Seven Hills, Bentley, and Saklan have robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need, and they typically use the Clarity Application to assess eligibility. California also offers the California Credit Union School Loan Program and other financing options. It's crucial to apply for aid concurrently with admission, as deadlines are strict and funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Moraga private schools offer that leverage the local Bay Area environment?
Private schools in Moraga capitalize on their Northern California setting through distinctive programs. The Seven Hills School emphasizes outdoor and environmental education, with its "Learning in the World" trips and a curriculum that integrates California's ecology. The Saklan School incorporates technology and design thinking, connecting students with the innovation culture of the nearby Silicon Valley and East Bay biotech sectors. Bentley School offers extensive global studies and entrepreneurship programs that utilize San Francisco's international and business resources. Many schools also have strong partnerships with UC Berkeley and Saint Mary's College for student enrichment, lectures, and facility use.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Moraga, and how competitive is admission?
The admission cycle for Moraga private schools is highly structured and begins early. The process typically starts with tours and open houses in the fall (September-November), with application deadlines between January and February for the following academic year. Key steps include submitting an application, parent interviews, student assessments/visits, and teacher recommendations. Admission is competitive, particularly for entry points like kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades, due to strong demand from local families and those moving to the sought-after Lamorinda area. Sibling and legacy applicants often receive priority. It is strongly advised to begin research and school visits at least 12-18 months before desired enrollment.
For families considering both, what are the key differences between the Moraga public school district and local private school options?
The Moraga School District (MSD) is consistently top-ranked in California, offering excellent K-8 public education, which is a major draw for the community. The key differences lie in class size, educational approach, and continuity. Private schools like Seven Hills and Saklan offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 12-18 students) and more individualized attention compared to MSD's larger classrooms. Private schools also provide distinct pedagogical philosophies (e.g., progressive, project-based) that differ from the standard public curriculum. Furthermore, while MSD ends at 8th grade (with students transitioning to Campolindo High in a different district), private schools like Bentley offer a seamless K-12 pathway. The choice often comes down to a family's preference for a specific educational model versus the highly-regarded, no-tuition public option.
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