Private Schools in Watsonville, California

York School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school located in Monterey that serves students from throughout Monterey County, including Watsonville. As the only NAIS-accredited independent school in Monterey County, York offers exceptional academic rigor with 100% college acceptance rates. The school features a 100-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities, extensive Advanced Placement offerings, competitive athletics, and comprehensive arts programs. With small class sizes averaging 15 students and a diverse student body, York provides an elite educational experience that attracts families from Watsonville seeking top-tier private education with proven academic outcomes and extensive extracurricular opportunities.

Monterey Bay Academy is a comprehensive private Christian school located directly in Watsonville, serving students from preschool through high school. The school features a 379-acre campus with ocean views and offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum alongside unique programs in agricultural sciences and environmental studies. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the academy provides personalized attention and strong academic support. The campus includes modern facilities, athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular activities, making it a premier private education option for Watsonville families seeking both academic excellence and character development.

Pacific Coast Charter School serves Watsonville and Santa Cruz County students through innovative independent study and personalized learning approaches. While technically a public charter, it operates as a school of choice with private school-level flexibility and individualized attention. The school offers comprehensive K-12 education with strong college preparatory programs, dual enrollment opportunities, and career technical education pathways. With highly qualified teachers and small student-to-teacher ratios, Pacific Coast Charter provides tailored educational experiences that have earned high parent satisfaction ratings throughout the region, including significant enrollment from Watsonville families.