The Best Private Schools in Yorba Linda, California
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Yorba Linda. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Fairmont Private Schools - Anaheim Hills Campus
Fairmont Private Schools
Fairmont Private Schools' Anaheim Hills campus serves Yorba Linda families with a comprehensive private education program. Established in 1978, this highly-rated institution offers rigorous academic programs including International Baccalaureate and advanced STEM curriculum. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, technology centers, and performing arts spaces. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school emphasizes college preparation and character development. The extensive extracurricular program includes competitive athletics, robotics, debate, and visual arts. Parent reviews consistently highlight the strong academic foundation and supportive community environment.
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St. Francis of Assisi School
Catholic Diocese of Orange
St. Francis of Assisi School is a premier Catholic private school located directly in Yorba Linda, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Founded in 1989, the school combines strong Catholic faith formation with rigorous academic standards. The curriculum features advanced mathematics, comprehensive language arts, and an integrated STEAM program. The campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, a chapel, and athletic facilities. The school is known for its tight-knit community, experienced faculty, and strong parent involvement. Extracurricular offerings include choir, sports teams, student council, and community service programs.
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St. Junipero Serra Catholic School
Catholic Diocese of Orange
St. Junipero Serra Catholic School serves families throughout Orange County, including Yorba Linda, with a comprehensive private education program. Established in 1999, the school offers a balanced curriculum that integrates faith, academics, and character development. The technology-enhanced learning environment includes 1:1 device programs and interactive classrooms. Academic programs emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and college preparation with advanced coursework available. The campus features modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic fields. The school maintains strong academic results and high parent satisfaction ratings, with many graduates advancing to top Catholic high schools in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Yorba Linda, California
What are the primary private school options available within Yorba Linda, California, and do I need to look at neighboring cities?
Yorba Linda itself is home to several well-regarded private schools, most notably St. Francis of Assisi School (K-8) and St. Junipero Serra Catholic School (TK-8). For high school, families often look to nearby campuses like Fairmont Private Schools - Anaheim Hills Campus (Pre-K-12), which is just a short drive away in Anaheim Hills. Additionally, many Yorba Linda residents consider private schools in surrounding North Orange County cities such as Brea, Fullerton, and Placentia. While Yorba Linda has excellent public schools, the private options provide specific religious or pedagogical alternatives without requiring an excessively long commute.
How does tuition for private schools in the Yorba Linda, CA, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typical?
Tuition in the Yorba Linda area is generally at or above the California private school average due to the region's high cost of living and demand for quality education. For the 2024-2025 academic year, local Catholic elementary schools like St. Francis of Assisi have tuition ranging from approximately $8,000 to $10,000, while a comprehensive Pre-K-12 program like Fairmont can exceed $30,000 annually for high school. Most schools offer need-based financial aid, parish subsidies for active church members at Catholic schools, and sibling discounts. It's also important to explore the California Tax Credit Scholarship program, which can provide scholarships for eligible families attending participating private schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Yorba Linda that leverage the local community or environment?
Yorba Linda private schools often integrate the city's rich historical and environmental resources into their programs. For instance, schools may incorporate field studies at the Yorba Linda Public Library's local history room or the Yorba Linda Heritage Museum. Many emphasize outdoor and science education, with programs that utilize the nearby Chino Hills State Park and local canyons for ecological studies. Furthermore, schools like St. Junipero Serra Catholic School often have strong STEM initiatives and character education programs that align with the community's family-oriented values. Athletics frequently compete in the Orange County-based leagues, providing high-level competition.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Yorba Linda, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Yorba Linda private schools typically begins in the fall, with open houses held from September to January for the following academic year. Application deadlines are often in January or February, with acceptance notifications sent by March. Due to high demand, especially for kindergarten entry, many schools have waitlists, particularly at the popular Catholic elementary schools. Key steps include submitting an application, student assessment or shadow day (for older grades), family interview, and providing records and teacher recommendations. For parish-affiliated schools, priority is usually given to active parishioners and siblings of current students, so early engagement with the parish is advisable.
How do the academic outcomes and classroom environments of Yorba Linda private schools compare to the highly-rated public school district?
Yorba Linda is served by the top-ranked Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD), making the decision between public and private one of specific fit rather than quality. Private schools in the area typically offer smaller class sizes (often 20:1 or lower), a values-based education (particularly in religious schools), and a consistent curriculum across grades. The public schools are larger, offer extensive extracurricular and AP course options at the high school level, and are tuition-free. Private schools may provide a more tailored, close-knit community and specialized religious instruction, which is a primary draw for families choosing them over the excellent local public options.
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