The Best Private Schools in Saratoga, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Saratoga. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Andrew's Episcopal School
Independent Episcopal School
St. Andrew's Episcopal School is a highly-regarded independent school located directly in Saratoga, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. As an International Baccalaureate World School, it offers the IB Primary Years Programme alongside a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic excellence with character development. The school's beautiful 7-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, music rooms, and athletic facilities. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its strong community values, dedicated faculty, and well-rounded educational approach that prepares students for top high schools and beyond.
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BASIS Independent Silicon Valley
BASIS Curriculum Schools
BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, located in nearby San Jose, serves many Saratoga families seeking an academically rigorous private school option. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum from kindergarten through high school, known for its advanced STEM focus and liberal arts integration. Students benefit from subject expert teachers, advanced course offerings, and a track record of exceptional college admissions. The modern campus features state-of-the-art science labs, technology centers, performance spaces, and athletic facilities. With nearly 90 reviews maintaining a 4.6-star rating, parents consistently praise the school's academic excellence, dedicated faculty, and preparation for top universities.
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Stratford School - Los Gatos
Stratford School
Stratford School's Los Gatos campus serves Saratoga families with a comprehensive private education program from preschool through middle school. The school is renowned for its advanced academic curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong focus on STEM education integrated with arts and humanities. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, technology centers, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school maintains a 4.5-star rating based on parent reviews praising its academic rigor, nurturing environment, and excellent college preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Saratoga, California
What are the main types of private schools available to families in Saratoga, California, and how do they differ?
Saratoga, CA, offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily clustered in nearby communities like Los Gatos and San Jose. The options include prestigious college-preparatory schools like BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, known for its accelerated STEM-focused curriculum. There are also faith-based institutions such as St. Andrew's Episcopal School, which offers a balanced education with character development. Additionally, schools like Stratford School provide a structured, academically rigorous program from preschool through middle school. The key differences lie in educational philosophy (progressive vs. traditional), curriculum focus (STEM, liberal arts, religious), and school culture. Given Saratoga's high cost of living and proximity to Silicon Valley, many schools emphasize innovation, technology, and high academic achievement.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Saratoga, CA, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Saratoga area is significantly above the California state average for private education, reflecting the region's high cost of living. Annual tuition for K-8 schools often ranges from $25,000 to $40,000, while high school can exceed $50,000. Schools like BASIS Independent Silicon Valley and Stratford School operate at the higher end of this spectrum. However, most established private schools offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as funds can be limited. Additionally, California does not have state-sponsored voucher programs, but some schools may offer sibling discounts or merit-based scholarships. Parents should inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their specific financial aid deadlines and requirements.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Saratoga, California?
The enrollment process for top private schools in the Saratoga area is highly structured and begins very early. For the following academic year, the timeline typically starts in August or September with open house events. Application deadlines are often in early January (e.g., January 10th for many schools). The process usually includes submitting an application, teacher recommendations, transcripts, and standardized test scores (like the ISEE). For younger grades, a developmental assessment or play-based observation is common. Student and family interviews are a standard part of the process for most grades. Admission decisions are typically released in March. Given the competitive nature of schools like BASIS Independent Silicon Valley and St. Andrew's, it is highly recommended to start researching and visiting schools at least 12-18 months in advance.
How do the academic and extracurricular offerings at Saratoga-area private schools leverage their Silicon Valley location?
Private schools in the Saratoga area uniquely integrate the innovative spirit of Silicon Valley into their programs. Academically, this is seen through advanced STEM and computer science curricula, robotics programs, coding classes starting in elementary school, and partnerships with local tech companies for mentorship or internships at the high school level. Schools like BASIS Independent Silicon Valley are built on this model. Extracurricularly, many schools offer clubs focused on entrepreneurship, engineering competitions, and environmental science projects that utilize the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. This environment fosters a culture of problem-solving, technological literacy, and exposure to cutting-edge industries, preparing students for top universities and future careers in a globally competitive landscape.
For families considering both, what are the key factors when comparing the highly-rated Saratoga public school district to local private school options?
The Saratoga Union School District and the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District are consistently ranked among the top public districts in California, making the decision nuanced. Key factors for comparison include: **Class Size:** Private schools often have smaller classes (15-20 students vs. 25-30+ in public) allowing for more individualized attention. **Curriculum Flexibility:** Private schools can offer specialized tracks (e.g., accelerated math, Mandarin immersion) that may not be available in the public school's standard curriculum. **Educational Philosophy:** Private schools offer distinct approaches (Montessori, religious, project-based) unlike the standardized public approach. **Resources:** While public schools are well-funded, private schools often have newer facilities, specialized labs, and different extracurricular arrays. **Community:** Public schools offer a hyper-local community, while private schools draw from a wider geographic area. Many families in Saratoga choose public schools for their exceptional quality, but opt for private for a specific pedagogical fit or accelerated program not available in the district.
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