The Best Private Schools in Redlands, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Redlands. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Grove School
Independent Montessori School
The Grove School is a highly-regarded Montessori private school serving students from preschool through high school. Known for its innovative approach to education, the school emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and individualized instruction. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and outdoor learning spaces. Academic programs are rigorous with strong college preparation, and the school maintains small class sizes with experienced faculty. Extracurricular offerings include robotics, theater, music, and various sports programs.
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Redlands Christian School
Independent Christian School
Redlands Christian School is a well-established private Christian institution offering education from preschool through 8th grade. The school provides a comprehensive academic program integrated with Christian values and character development. Features include dedicated science and computer labs, modern classrooms, and extensive athletic facilities. The curriculum emphasizes strong foundational skills in literacy and mathematics while offering robust programs in technology, music, art, and physical education. Parent involvement is high, and the school community is known for its supportive, family-oriented environment.
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Loma Linda Academy
Seventh-day Adventist Education System
Located just minutes from Redlands in neighboring Loma Linda, this prestigious academy serves students from preschool through 12th grade and draws many families from the Redlands area. As one of the largest private schools in the region, Loma Linda Academy offers comprehensive academic programs including Advanced Placement courses and an International Baccalaureate diploma program. The extensive campus features state-of-the-art science laboratories, performing arts center, athletic complex, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The school maintains high academic standards with a focus on whole-person education, emphasizing spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Redlands, California
What are the primary types of private school options available to families in Redlands, California?
Redlands offers a diverse range of private school models catering to different educational philosophies. Prominent options include college-preparatory schools like The Grove School, which emphasizes project-based learning and environmental science; faith-based institutions such as Redlands Christian School (non-denominational) and Loma Linda Academy (Seventh-day Adventist); and nearby options like Arrowhead Christian Academy. This variety allows parents in Redlands to choose based on academic rigor, religious affiliation, and pedagogical approach, all within the context of the city's unique blend of historic charm and proximity to major inland empire resources.
How does tuition for private schools in Redlands, CA, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for K-12 private schools in Redlands generally ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 annually, which is often slightly below the average for many coastal California cities but representative of the Inland Empire. Schools like Redlands Christian School and Loma Linda Academy offer need-based financial aid, and many participate in California state programs like the California Tax Credit Scholarship Program for lower-income families. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid packages, scholarships, and potential multi-child discounts, as availability can vary significantly.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Redlands area that leverage its local environment and community?
Several Redlands private schools integrate the region's assets into their curricula. The Grove School, for instance, utilizes its agricultural heritage and focus on sustainability with garden projects and environmental science labs. Loma Linda Academy's proximity to Loma Linda University Medical Center fosters strong biomedical and health science pathways. Furthermore, many schools leverage Redlands' historic downtown and the University of Redlands for partnership programs, music festivals, and advanced placement opportunities, providing enrichment that is distinctly tied to the local academic and cultural landscape.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Redlands, such as The Grove School or Loma Linda Academy?
The enrollment process for top Redlands private schools often begins a full year in advance. Key steps usually include: attending open houses (typically held in the fall), submitting applications between November and February, and completing student assessments or shadow days. Many schools have priority deadlines for siblings and legacy families. For example, Loma Linda Academy has a structured application portal, while The Grove School may include a student interview. Waiting lists are common, so initiating the process early is highly recommended for families in the Redlands area.
How do the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios in Redlands private schools compare to the local public school district, and what are the perceived benefits?
Private schools in Redlands, such as Redlands Christian School and The Grove School, typically maintain significantly smaller class sizes, often ranging from 15 to 20 students, compared to the Redlands Unified School District's average of 25-30+. This results in lower student-to-teacher ratios (often 10:1 to 15:1), allowing for more individualized instruction. Parents often cite this personalized attention, along with specialized programs and a consistent educational philosophy throughout the school, as key differentiators from the public system, which must serve a broader and more diverse population across the city.
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