The Best Private Schools in Closter, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Closter. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Elisabeth Morrow School
Independent
The Elisabeth Morrow School is a highly-regarded independent school serving students from age 3 through eighth grade. Located just minutes from Closter in neighboring Englewood, this prestigious institution offers a comprehensive educational experience with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and exceptional facilities. The school emphasizes academic excellence through a balanced curriculum that includes robust STEAM programs, language arts, mathematics, and character education. With beautiful campus grounds and extensive extracurricular offerings, EMS has maintained a reputation for preparing students for top secondary schools while fostering individual growth and development.
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Dwight-Englewood School
Independent
Dwight-Englewood School is a premier independent day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. Located just 4 miles from Closter in Englewood, this highly selective institution offers a rigorous academic program with both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate options. The 45-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. D-E is known for its diverse student body, exceptional faculty, and comprehensive college counseling program that consistently places graduates in top-tier universities. The school emphasizes global citizenship and innovative learning approaches.
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Tenafly High School (Private Division)
Tenafly Public Schools (Private Program)
While primarily a public institution, Tenafly High School serves as a top educational option for families in Closter and surrounding areas through its exceptional academic programs and reputation for excellence. Located approximately 3 miles from Closter, this comprehensive high school offers a private school-level education with extensive Advanced Placement courses, competitive STEM programs, and outstanding arts education. The school features modern facilities, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities including championship athletic teams and nationally-recognized academic clubs. Tenafly consistently ranks among New Jersey's top high schools for academic achievement and college readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Closter, New Jersey
What are the primary private school options available to families residing in Closter, New Jersey?
While Closter itself is a small borough, it is situated within a region of Bergen County renowned for its excellent private schools. Families in Closter commonly consider nearby institutions such as The Elisabeth Morrow School (Englewood, serving early childhood through 8th grade), Dwight-Englewood School (Englewood, a Pre-K through 12 college preparatory school), and the private division of Tenafly High School. Additionally, many prestigious schools in neighboring towns like Bergen Catholic High School (Oradell) and The Academy of the Holy Angels (Demarest) are accessible. Closter's location provides a wealth of choices within a short commute.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Closter, NJ area compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typical?
Tuition for day schools in the Closter area is generally at or above the high New Jersey state average due to the concentration of elite institutions and the region's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $30,000 for lower schools to over $50,000 for upper schools at the most selective colleges. However, most schools, including Dwight-Englewood and others, offer robust need-based financial aid programs. It is crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are limited. New Jersey also has the "Opportunity Scholarship Act" for low-income students in certain failing districts, but most Closter-area private aid is school-specific.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are emphasized by private schools near Closter, NJ?
Schools in this area often distinguish themselves with specialized programs. For example, Dwight-Englewood School offers a globally-focused curriculum with advanced STEM initiatives and a renowned arts program. The Elisabeth Morrow School emphasizes a child-centered, "4 C's" program (Courtesy, Consideration, Cooperation, and Compassion) in early education. Many schools leverage their proximity to New York City for unparalleled arts, internship, and cultural immersion opportunities. Furthermore, competitive athletics and extensive language offerings (often including Mandarin or Arabic) are common hallmarks of the top-tier private schools serving Closter residents.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Closter area?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, parents should initiate research 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically held in the fall), submitting applications by January deadlines (often January 15th for the following September), and scheduling student visits/interviews for the winter. Standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT) is usually required for middle and upper schools. Notification dates are typically in March. Given the competitiveness of schools like Dwight-Englewood, starting early, especially for entry points like Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades, is essential for Closter families.
For a family in Closter, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district to area private schools?
Closter's public school district (Closter Public Schools) is highly rated, which makes the decision nuanced. Key considerations include: **Class Size** (private schools often have smaller ratios), **Educational Philosophy** (private schools may offer specific pedagogies like Montessori or intensive college-prep), **Specialized Resources** (private schools may have more tailored learning support or faster-track advanced courses), and **Campus/Program Scope** (private high schools often have facilities and extracurricular breadth rivaling small colleges). The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks the community-centric, high-quality local public system or desires a specific private school environment, even if it involves tuition and a commute.
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