Private Schools in Santa Cruz, California

Pacific Collegiate School is a highly selective public charter school consistently ranked among the top high schools in California. Serving grades 7-12, PCS offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement course offerings. The school emphasizes critical thinking, academic excellence, and community engagement. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and a strong focus on both STEM and humanities. The school has produced numerous National Merit Scholars and maintains exceptional college acceptance rates to top universities nationwide.

Located just south of Santa Cruz in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mount Madonna School serves students from preschool through high school with a comprehensive college preparatory program. The school emphasizes values-based education, environmental stewardship, and academic excellence across all grade levels. Notable features include a 355-acre campus with extensive outdoor learning opportunities, strong performing arts programs, and a commitment to developing global citizens. The high school program includes Advanced Placement courses, extensive arts offerings, and a renowned environmental science program that leverages their unique natural setting.

Kirby School is an independent college preparatory school located in downtown Santa Cruz, serving grades 6-12. The school offers a challenging academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. Kirby's curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing across disciplines, and hands-on learning experiences. The school features strong STEM programs, competitive athletics, visual and performing arts, and extensive community service opportunities. With a diverse student body and dedicated faculty, Kirby prepares students for success at competitive colleges while fostering individual growth and character development in a supportive community environment.