The Best Private Schools in Rohnert Park, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Rohnert Park. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Eugene's Cathedral School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Santa Rosa
St. Eugene's Cathedral School, located approximately 12 miles from Rohnert Park in Santa Rosa, is a premier Catholic elementary school serving students from preschool through eighth grade. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum rooted in Catholic values, with strong emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and faith formation. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community environment. The comprehensive program includes STEM education, Spanish language instruction, music and art programs, and competitive sports. The well-maintained campus features modern classrooms, science lab, library, and playground facilities. St. Eugene's consistently produces graduates who excel at local high schools and beyond, making it a top choice for families seeking quality private education in the North Bay area.
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Cardinal Newman High School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Santa Rosa
Located just 10 miles from Rohnert Park in Santa Rosa, Cardinal Newman High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving students throughout Sonoma County. The school boasts exceptional academic results with 99% of graduates attending four-year colleges and universities. Students have access to rigorous Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular opportunities including robotics, theater, and community service. The 40-acre campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, athletic facilities, and technology-integrated classrooms. With a strong tradition of excellence and community values, Cardinal Newman provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond.
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Credo High School
Waldorf Education
Credo High School is a Waldorf-inspired public charter high school serving the Rohnert Park community with a unique approach to education that balances academic rigor with artistic expression and practical skills. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum integrated with visual and performing arts, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning experiences. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive community environment that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and outdoor learning spaces that support their holistic educational philosophy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Rohnert Park, California
What are the primary private school options available for families in Rohnert Park, California, and what educational philosophies do they represent?
Rohnert Park offers a distinct mix of private schools catering to different educational approaches. The notable options include Credo High School, a Waldorf-inspired charter high school (which, while publicly funded, follows a private school model and philosophy); Cardinal Newman High School, a co-ed Catholic college-preparatory school in nearby Santa Rosa serving the broader Sonoma County area; and St. Eugene's Cathedral School, a K-8 Catholic school in Santa Rosa with a strong faith-based curriculum. For Rohnert Park residents, these schools represent the closest private options, with Credo being uniquely situated within the city itself. Parents should note that many Sonoma County private schools draw from multiple cities, so transportation is a key consideration.
How does tuition for private schools in the Rohnert Park, CA, area compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools serving Rohnert Park families generally aligns with or slightly exceeds the California private school average, reflecting the cost of living in Sonoma County. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at Cardinal Newman High School is approximately $19,000, while St. Eugene's Cathedral School is around $9,000-$11,000 for K-8. Credo High School, as a public charter, does not charge tuition. Most private schools in the area offer need-based financial aid, diocesan assistance for Catholic schools, and merit-based scholarships. It's crucial for Rohnert Park parents to apply for financial aid early, as funds can be limited, and to inquire about multi-child discounts if applicable.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Rohnert Park students?
Schools serving Rohnert Park provide specialized programs that leverage the region's character. Credo High School is renowned for its Waldorf curriculum, emphasizing arts integration, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning, including a vibrant farming and sustainability program. Cardinal Newman High School offers a robust college-prep curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement (AP) courses, strong athletics in the North Bay League, and faith-based service learning. St. Eugene's provides a structured, traditional academic foundation with sacramental preparation and Spanish language instruction. A unique regional advantage is the proximity to Sonoma State University, which some private schools partner with for dual enrollment or enrichment opportunities.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Rohnert Park/Sonoma County area, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Rohnert Park-area private schools often begins a full year in advance. For schools like Cardinal Newman and St. Eugene's, open houses typically occur in the fall (October-November), with application deadlines in January or February for the following academic year. Admission decisions are usually released in March. Sibling and parish member preferences are common in Catholic schools. Due to high demand and limited seats, especially in the lower grades, waitlists are frequent. Credo High School, as a charter, holds a public lottery in March if applications exceed space. Rohnert Park parents are advised to attend fall open houses and submit applications well before deadlines.
For a family living in Rohnert Park, what are the key considerations when choosing between a local public school, a charter school like Credo, and a traditional private school?
The decision hinges on educational philosophy, cost, and community. Rohnert Park's public schools (Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District) offer a standard curriculum with no tuition. Credo High School provides a unique, tuition-free Waldorf model but requires an application and lottery. Traditional private schools like Cardinal Newman or St. Eugene's offer smaller class sizes, religious education (if desired), and a structured college-prep path but at a significant cost. Key local considerations include commute time to Santa Rosa schools, the value placed on a faith-based environment, and the desire for a specific pedagogical approach like Waldorf. Many Rohnert Park families create a "feeder" path, such as attending local elementary schools before applying to private high schools.
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