The Best Private Schools in Boise, Idaho
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Boise. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Riverstone International School
Independent
Riverstone International School is Boise's only International Baccalaureate World School offering all three IB programs. The school emphasizes global citizenship, outdoor education, and academic excellence with small class sizes averaging 12 students. Their 14-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. The diverse student body represents over 30 countries, and graduates consistently gain admission to top universities worldwide.
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The Ambrose School
Classical Christian Education
The Ambrose School provides a comprehensive classical Christian education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Following the trivium model of grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages, the curriculum integrates faith and learning across all subjects. The school features strong athletics programs, extensive fine arts offerings, and a rigorous college preparatory track. Their 15-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, a chapel, and athletic facilities serving over 400 students.
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Bishop Kelly High School
Catholic Diocese of Boise
Bishop Kelly High School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving the greater Boise area. With a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, the school offers rigorous AP and honors courses alongside comprehensive STEM, arts, and athletic programs. The 40-acre campus features modern academic buildings, performing arts center, multiple athletic fields, and recently renovated science and technology facilities. BK maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and emphasizes character development through community service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Boise, Idaho
What are the main types of private schools available in Boise, Idaho, and how do they differ?
Boise offers a diverse range of private schools, each with distinct educational philosophies. Top options include college-preparatory schools like Bishop Kelly High School (Catholic, 9-12), classical Christian education at The Ambrose School (K-12), and the globally-focused, International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum program at Riverstone International School (PK-12). This variety allows Boise parents to choose based on pedagogical approach, religious affiliation, and specific academic frameworks like IB, which is a notable strength in the local private landscape.
How does private school tuition in Boise, ID, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are commonly available?
While generally lower than coastal metropolitan areas, private school tuition in Boise varies. For the 2024-25 year, annual tuition ranges from approximately $8,000 to $25,000+, with many schools clustering in the $10,000-$15,000 range. Most Boise private schools, including Bishop Kelly, Ambrose, and Riverstone, offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Additionally, Idaho’s Advanced Opportunities program allows public funds to be used for certain dual-credit courses, which can benefit private high school students. School-specific payment plans are also common.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Boise private schools offer that leverage the Idaho environment?
Boise private schools often integrate Idaho’s natural landscape and outdoor culture into their programs. Riverstone International School emphasizes outdoor education and experiential learning through its "Outdoor Pursuits" program, including local trips. The Ambrose School incorporates outdoor leadership and stewardship. Furthermore, several schools have strong STEM programs connected to Idaho’s tech and agricultural industries, offering robotics, engineering, and environmental science courses that utilize local resources and partnerships with Boise-based companies.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Boise?
For most Boise private schools, the main enrollment cycle begins in the fall (October-November) for the following academic year, with application deadlines often in January or February. Schools like Riverstone and Ambrose typically require an application, student assessments, family interviews, and teacher recommendations. Many operate on rolling admission after priority deadlines if spaces remain. It’s crucial to contact schools directly, as some, like Bishop Kelly, may have specific entrance exam dates for high school applicants. Starting the process a year in advance is highly recommended.
For families moving to Boise, how do the top private schools compare to the highly-rated public school districts in areas like the West Bench or North End?
Boise is known for strong public school districts, which can make the private school decision one of specific fit rather than necessity. Private schools in Boise often offer smaller class sizes, specialized curricula (e.g., IB, classical), and distinct community values. They may provide more consistency if you live in a neighborhood where public school enrollment is capped. The choice often hinges on seeking a particular religious foundation, a specific pedagogical approach like Montessori or classical, or a more globally-focused program than what is available in the excellent, but more standardized, public options.