The Best Private Schools in Highland Park, Illinois
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Highland Park. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Ravinia Elementary School
Ravinia School District
Ravinia Elementary School is a highly acclaimed private elementary school located directly in Highland Park, known for its exceptional academic programs and dedicated faculty. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with strong emphasis on STEM education and arts integration. With small class sizes and personalized attention, Ravinia provides a nurturing environment that fosters both academic excellence and character development. The school features modern facilities including dedicated science labs, art studios, and technology-integrated classrooms. Parent satisfaction is exceptionally high, with families praising the school's committed teachers, rigorous academic standards, and strong community atmosphere.
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North Shore Country Day School
Independent School
North Shore Country Day School is a prestigious independent school located in nearby Winnetka that serves many Highland Park families. Founded in 1919, this JK-12 institution is renowned for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum and exceptional faculty. The school offers extensive Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive arts programs including visual and performing arts, and competitive athletic teams. Facilities include state-of-the-art science centers, multiple art studios, modern athletic complexes, and technology-rich learning spaces. With a strong focus on character education and community engagement, NSCDS consistently ranks among the top private schools in the Chicago North Shore region, with graduates attending highly selective colleges and universities.
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Joseph Sears School
Kenilworth School District 38
Joseph Sears School is an outstanding private K-8 institution located in nearby Kenilworth that serves numerous Highland Park families. This academically rigorous school is known for its exceptional educational programs and high-achieving student body. The curriculum emphasizes advanced academics with strong foundations in mathematics, language arts, and sciences, complemented by comprehensive fine arts and technology programs. The school features excellent facilities including modern science labs, dedicated art and music rooms, and extensive athletic facilities. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment, Joseph Sears School consistently produces students who excel in high school and beyond, making it a top choice for families throughout the North Shore area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Highland Park, Illinois
What are the primary private school options available within Highland Park, IL, and how do they differ in educational philosophy?
Highland Park, IL, is home to several distinguished private schools, each with a distinct approach. **Ravinia Elementary School** is a private, independent school serving grades K-4 with a focus on foundational skills and a nurturing environment. **North Shore Country Day School** (located just south in Winnetka) is a prominent JK-12 independent school known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and emphasis on character education. **Joseph Sears School** is actually a public elementary school in Kenilworth, often mistakenly considered private due to its exceptional reputation; true private options in the immediate area also include nearby institutions like Lake Forest Academy. The key difference lies in philosophy: Ravinia Elementary provides a tight-knit early childhood focus, while North Shore Country Day offers a continuous, comprehensive JK-12 journey with extensive arts and athletics.
How does tuition for private schools in the Highland Park, IL, area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Highland Park area is generally above the Illinois state average, reflecting the high cost of living and the prestigious nature of these institutions. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at schools like North Shore Country Day can range from approximately $30,000 to $40,000+ depending on the grade level. Most top-tier private schools in this region are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. For example, North Shore Country Day awards millions in financial aid annually. Illinois also offers a tax-advantaged **Bright Directions 529 Plan** for education savings. Parents are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid during the admission process, as deadlines are strict and funds are allocated competitively.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Highland Park that leverage local resources or community partnerships?
Private schools in the Highland Park area leverage their North Shore location and proximity to Chicago to create exceptional programs. **North Shore Country Day School**, for instance, utilizes its 16-acre campus for experiential learning and has partnerships with nearby institutions like the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Ravinia Festival. Many schools emphasize environmental science through local forest preserves and Lake Michigan studies. Furthermore, their proximity to a major metropolitan center allows for robust internship programs for older students, frequent museum and theater trips, and access to a wide network of academic and professional experts. This blend of suburban resources and urban access is a defining characteristic of private education in this community.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Highland Park, IL, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment timeline for private schools in Highland Park and the broader North Shore region is highly structured and begins early. The process for fall admission typically starts 12-18 months in advance, with open houses in the fall (September-November), application deadlines in January, and admission decisions released in March. The process is competitive, especially for entry points like Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and 9th grade. It usually involves a student application, parent statements, teacher recommendations, school records, a student visit/interview, and standardized assessments (like the ISEE). Given the limited seats and high demand, especially at schools like North Shore Country Day, it is crucial for families to plan ahead, attend admissions events, and ensure all materials are submitted meticulously by the deadlines.
For families considering both options, what are the key factors when comparing the highly-rated public schools in Highland Park (District 112 & 113) to local private schools?
This is a central consideration for Highland Park families. The public schools (e.g., District 112 for K-8 and District 113 for Highland Park High School) are consistently top-ranked in Illinois, offering excellent academics, extensive AP courses, and significant resources at no direct tuition cost. Choosing a private school often comes down to specific preferences: **smaller class sizes** and more individualized attention, a **distinct educational philosophy** (e.g., progressive, classical), a **seamless JK-12 continuum** at one institution, or specialized programs not available in the public curriculum. Private schools may also offer more flexibility in curriculum design and less susceptibility to state budget fluctuations. The decision frequently hinges on the desired school culture, community, and whether the investment aligns with a family's specific educational values beyond the already high baseline provided by the exceptional public system.
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