The Best Private Schools in Bloomfield, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Bloomfield. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Gill St. Bernard's School
Independent School
Gill St. Bernard's School is a highly-regarded independent private school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located approximately 20 miles from Bloomfield, this school attracts families from throughout North Jersey with its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, small class sizes averaging 12 students, and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. GSB emphasizes character education and community service alongside academic excellence, with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities.
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Montclair Kimberley Academy
Independent School
Montclair Kimberley Academy is a prestigious independent school located just 4 miles from Bloomfield, serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. MKA offers a comprehensive educational experience with three distinct campuses tailored to different age groups. The school is known for its International Baccalaureate Diploma program, extensive arts curriculum, and competitive athletic programs. With small class sizes and a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, MKA provides personalized attention and has a strong track record of college placements at selective universities. The school emphasizes global citizenship and innovative learning approaches.
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Immaculate Conception High School
Archdiocese of Newark
Immaculate Conception High School is a Catholic college preparatory school located just 3 miles from Bloomfield, serving students in grades 9-12. With nearly a century of educational excellence, ICHS offers a rigorous academic program including 18 Advanced Placement courses and a specialized STEM Academy. The school maintains strong traditions in both academics and athletics, with modern facilities that include science laboratories, technology centers, and athletic complexes. ICHS emphasizes faith-based education alongside academic achievement, with nearly 100% of graduates attending four-year colleges and universities. The school community is known for its strong parent involvement and alumni network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Bloomfield, New Jersey
What are the main types of private school options available to families residing in Bloomfield, New Jersey?
Bloomfield residents have access to several prestigious private schools in the immediate and surrounding area, though most are located in neighboring towns. Top-tier options include Gill St. Bernard's School in Gladstone (Pre-K-12, known for its expansive campus and strong arts), Montclair Kimberley Academy across three campuses in Montclair (Pre-K-12, with a rigorous International Baccalaureate program), and Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair (a Catholic, co-ed 9-12 school). Bloomfield itself hosts smaller parochial options like St. Thomas the Apostle School (Pre-K-8) and Bloomfield Christian School. Many families also consider schools in nearby Caldwell, Livingston, and Newark.
How does tuition for top private schools near Bloomfield, NJ compare to the state average, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools in the North Jersey region around Bloomfield is above the state average. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $25,000 - $45,000+ for day schools like Montclair Kimberley Academy and Gill St. Bernard's. New Jersey's average private school tuition is lower, but the high-performing schools in Essex and Morris counties command a premium. Importantly, these schools offer substantial need-based financial aid. It's common for 20-30% of the student body to receive aid, with packages often determined by third-party services like SSS (School and Student Services). New Jersey also has the "Opportunity Scholarship Act" for certain low-income students in failing districts, but most aid comes directly from the schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Bloomfield, NJ area that differentiate them?
Schools in this competitive market offer distinct specializations. Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA) provides a full International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma pathway, rare in North Jersey. Gill St. Bernard's leverages its 208-acre campus for a renowned farm-to-table program and environmental science curriculum. Immaculate Conception High School emphasizes a college-prep curriculum with a values-based foundation and strong athletic traditions. For Bloomfield families, proximity to New York City also allows schools to integrate unique urban resources, such as advanced STEM partnerships, performing arts opportunities in Manhattan, and extensive internship programs not typically found in public schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Bloomfield, NJ families?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, parents should start researching schools 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically September-November), submitting applications by January deadlines (often with a $75-$150 fee), and scheduling student visits/interviews (Fall/Winter). Standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT) is usually required for middle and upper schools and should be taken in the fall. Admission decisions are released in March. For popular schools like MKA or Gill St. Bernard's, applying for early decision or being proactive with tours is crucial due to limited space and high demand from across Essex County.
For a family living in Bloomfield, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district to nearby private school options?
Key considerations include class size, specialized programming, and educational philosophy. Bloomfield Public Schools are large and diverse, offering a standard curriculum with some AP courses. Private alternatives offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 12-18 students), more individualized attention, and specialized tracks like IB. The decision often hinges on investment: private school requires a major financial commitment but may offer more consistent resources and a specific community ethos (e.g., religious, progressive, or college-focused). Transportation is another factor; while Bloomfield provides busing for some private schools under state law (for certain distances and grade levels), parents may need to manage commutes to towns like Montclair or Gladstone.
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