The Best Private Schools in Tarzana, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Tarzana. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Westmark School
Independent
Westmark School is a nationally recognized independent school specifically designed for students with language-based learning differences, serving families throughout the San Fernando Valley including Tarzana. Founded in 1983, the school provides a comprehensive college preparatory program tailored to students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges. The school features specialized instructional methods, small class sizes (typically 8:1 student-teacher ratio), and extensive support services. The campus includes technology-enhanced classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Westmark is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and maintains exceptional college acceptance rates for its graduates.
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Sierra Canyon School
Independent
Sierra Canyon School is a highly regarded independent day school serving the San Fernando Valley area including Tarzana. Founded in 1978, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory education from preschool through 12th grade. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. The school is known for its rigorous academic program with over 20 AP courses, competitive athletics program with multiple CIF championships, and outstanding arts education. Student-teacher ratio is approximately 8:1, ensuring personalized attention and strong college placement results.
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West Valley Christian School
West Valley Christian Church
West Valley Christian School has been serving families in the West San Fernando Valley, including Tarzana, since 1976. The school provides a Christ-centered education from preschool through 8th grade with a strong academic foundation integrated with biblical principles. The curriculum includes comprehensive STEM programs, fine arts, music, and competitive athletics. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, computer labs, and athletic fields. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with many graduates attending top private high schools in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Tarzana, California
What are the primary private school options available in Tarzana, CA, and what distinguishes them from one another?
Tarzana, CA, is home to several notable private schools, each with a distinct focus. Sierra Canyon School is a prominent, high-achieving college-preparatory school known for its rigorous academics, extensive arts and athletics programs, and a campus that spans from preschool through 12th grade. West Valley Christian School offers a faith-based, Christ-centered education from preschool through 8th grade, emphasizing spiritual development alongside academic fundamentals. Westmark School is uniquely dedicated to educating students with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and dysgraphia, using specialized, research-based teaching methods. This range provides options for college-prep, faith-based, and specialized learning environments within the Tarzana area.
How does tuition for private schools in Tarzana, CA, compare to the broader Los Angeles area, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in Tarzana is generally in line with the high costs found across Los Angeles County, reflecting California's overall expense. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges like $40,000+ for upper grades at Sierra Canyon, while elementary and faith-based schools like West Valley Christian are often in the $15,000-$25,000 range. Most Tarzana private schools offer need-based financial aid, and California parents should also explore the state's tax-advantaged **ScholarShare 529** plan for K-12 tuition expenses. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid deadlines and any available merit-based scholarships, as policies and funds vary.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are unique to private schools in the Tarzana area?
Tarzana private schools offer programs leveraging their Southern California location and institutional missions. Sierra Canyon School features a renowned film program, competitive athletic leagues, and extensive college counseling with a track record of Ivy League placements. Westmark School provides a unique, structured literacy program using multisensory Orton-Gillingham approaches and integrates assistive technology into all classrooms. West Valley Christian School often emphasizes community service projects and character education rooted in its faith-based philosophy. Many schools also utilize the nearby Santa Monica Mountains for environmental science and outdoor education, a distinct local advantage.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Tarzana, CA?
The enrollment process for Tarzana's private schools is highly structured and begins early, often 12-18 months before the desired start date. For schools like Sierra Canyon, applications for the following fall typically open in August/September, with deadlines between January and February. The process usually includes submitting an application, school records, teacher recommendations, student assessments or entrance exams (like the ISEE), and family interviews. For schools with specialized missions, like Westmark, an educational evaluation documenting a learning difference is a required part of the application. It is essential to check each school's website and attend fall open houses, as deadlines and requirements can differ significantly.
How do the class sizes and student-teacher ratios in Tarzana private schools compare to local public school options in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)?
A primary differentiator for Tarzana private schools is significantly smaller class sizes and lower student-teacher ratios compared to most LAUSD public schools in the area. While public school classes can often exceed 30 students, private schools in Tarzana typically maintain ratios between 8:1 and 15:1. For example, Westmark School emphasizes small, ability-grouped classes for personalized instruction, and Sierra Canyon maintains low ratios even in its upper grades. This allows for more individualized attention, differentiated instruction, and closer student-teacher relationships, which is a key factor for many families choosing private education in this community.
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