The Best Private Schools in Placerville, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Placerville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School
Episcopal Diocese of Northern California
St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School is a highly-regarded private school serving Placerville and the surrounding El Dorado County area. The school offers a comprehensive education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and community values. Their STEAM-focused curriculum integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics with hands-on learning experiences. The school features small class sizes ensuring personalized attention, extensive outdoor education programs leveraging the natural Sierra Nevada environment, and a nurturing community atmosphere. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, strong academic foundation, and the school's commitment to developing well-rounded students.
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St. Francis of Assisi Montessori School
Catholic Diocese of Sacramento
St. Francis of Assisi Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education in the Catholic tradition, serving families throughout El Dorado County. The school offers programs for children ages 3 through elementary grades, focusing on individualized learning, hands-on materials, and development of independence. The Montessori method is complemented by Catholic faith formation, creating a nurturing environment that respects each child's unique learning journey. The school features well-equipped Montessori classrooms, experienced AMI-trained teachers, and a strong sense of community. Parents report high satisfaction with the school's ability to foster both academic growth and personal development in a supportive, faith-based environment.
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Oak Ridge Academy
Independent Private School
Oak Ridge Academy, located in nearby El Dorado Hills, serves families throughout the greater Placerville region and is recognized for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum and International Baccalaureate programs. The school serves students from elementary through high school with a comprehensive academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and character development. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The school maintains small class sizes with a low student-teacher ratio, offering extensive extracurricular opportunities including competitive sports, visual and performing arts, and community service programs. Parents consistently praise the school's academic rigor, dedicated faculty, and the strong preparation students receive for college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Placerville, California
What are the primary private school options available within Placerville, California, and what are their educational approaches?
Placerville offers a few established private schools, each with a distinct philosophy. St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School provides a faith-based, holistic education from preschool through 8th grade. St. Francis of Assisi Montessori School follows the authentic Montessori method for early childhood education. Oak Ridge Academy is known for its personalized, project-based learning environment. Given the limited number of schools, many Placerville families also consider private options in neighboring El Dorado Hills or Cameron Park. It's important to visit each to see which pedagogical approach best fits your child.
How does tuition for private schools in Placerville, CA, compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition at Placerville's private schools is generally below the average for California's major metropolitan areas but is consistent with the Sierra foothills region. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $6,000 to $12,000 annually, depending on the grade level and school. All the major schools offer need-based financial aid, and California residents should explore the state's tax-advantaged **ScholarShare 529** plan for K-12 tuition expenses. Some schools also have parish or community-supported scholarships for qualifying families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Placerville private schools offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in Placerville often integrate the rich local history and natural surroundings into their curricula. It's common to find programs on California Gold Rush history, environmental science projects in the nearby American River watershed, and outdoor education. For example, some schools organize field trips to Coloma and incorporate agricultural studies. While they may not have the vast athletic leagues of larger districts, they often emphasize outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, and nature exploration, taking full advantage of the Sierra Nevada foothills setting.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Placerville, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment process typically begins in the fall or winter for the following academic year, with application deadlines between January and March. Key steps include a school tour, application submission, student assessment/visit, and a family interview. Admission competitiveness varies; smaller class sizes mean spots are limited, but they are generally less intensely competitive than elite Bay Area schools. Sibling and parishioner (for faith-based schools) applicants often receive priority. We recommend initiating contact with your preferred schools by October to understand their specific deadlines and requirements.
For families considering both, what are the key differences between the Placerville Union School District and local private schools?
The primary differences involve class size, curriculum flexibility, and religious education. Placerville Union public schools offer a standardized state curriculum, larger class sizes, and extensive extracurricular programs funded by public dollars. Local private schools provide much smaller class sizes (often 10-15 students), the ability to tailor learning (like Montessori or project-based models), and, in some cases, a faith-based foundation. A practical consideration for Placerville is transportation, as public schools provide bus services, while private schools typically require parent carpooling. The choice often hinges on a desire for specialized pedagogy or religious instruction versus the no-tuition, comprehensive offerings of the public district.
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