The Best Private Schools in Glen Ridge, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Glen Ridge. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Montclair Cooperative School
Independent Cooperative School
The Montclair Cooperative School is a progressive independent school serving students from age 2 through 8th grade. Located adjacent to Glen Ridge, this community-focused school emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning in a nurturing environment. The cooperative model encourages strong parent involvement and creates a tight-knit educational community. The curriculum integrates academic excellence with social-emotional development, featuring dedicated art, music, and Spanish programs. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the school's progressive approach prepares students for success in high school and beyond while fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.
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Montclair Kimberley Academy
Independent School
Montclair Kimberley Academy is a highly regarded independent college preparatory school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located just minutes from Glen Ridge, MKA offers a rigorous academic program with both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate options. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, MKA emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and character development. The school's extensive extracurricular program includes competitive athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service opportunities.
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Lacordaire Academy
Independent Catholic School
Lacordaire Academy is an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women in grades 6-12, located just minutes from Glen Ridge. The school offers a challenging academic program with Advanced Placement courses and emphasizes leadership development and service learning. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, Lacordaire provides personalized attention and strong college counseling. The school features modern science labs, technology integration throughout the curriculum, and comprehensive arts and athletic programs. Rooted in Dominican tradition, the academy focuses on developing confident, ethical leaders prepared for college success and meaningful contributions to society.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Glen Ridge, New Jersey
Are there any private schools physically located within Glen Ridge, New Jersey, or do families typically look to neighboring towns?
There are no private K-12 day schools with campuses physically located within the borough of Glen Ridge itself. Families in Glen Ridge most commonly look to highly-regarded private institutions in the immediate surrounding area, such as Montclair Kimberley Academy (in Montclair), The Montclair Cooperative School (in Montclair), and Lacordaire Academy (in Upper Montclair). The Glen Ridge Public Schools are themselves highly rated, which influences the private school landscape, making nearby options the standard for those seeking an independent education.
How does the tuition for top private schools near Glen Ridge, NJ, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading private schools in the Glen Ridge vicinity, like Montclair Kimberley Academy, is generally at or above the New Jersey private school average, often ranging from approximately $30,000 to over $50,000 per year for upper grades. These schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. Many families in Glen Ridge and Essex County apply for aid, and schools like MKA and Lacordaire use platforms like Clarity to assess need. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission and to inquire about each school's specific deadlines and endowment resources.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs draw Glen Ridge families to private schools like Montclair Kimberley Academy or Lacordaire Academy?
Glen Ridge families are often attracted to specialized programs that complement or expand upon the strong local public offerings. Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA) is known for its extensive global studies initiatives, advanced STEM research facilities, and a renowned visual and performing arts program. Lacordaire Academy, a Catholic independent school, offers a unique all-girls environment in the Upper School with a strong leadership curriculum and a focus on STEM for women. These distinct specializations provide alternatives that align with specific student interests beyond the Glen Ridge public curriculum.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Glen Ridge, NJ, area, and when should we start?
The process for schools like MKA, Montclair Cooperative, and Lacordaire is highly structured and begins early. Families should start researching and attending open houses in the fall, a full year before desired enrollment (e.g., fall 2024 for fall 2025 entry). Application deadlines are typically in January, with assessments, student visits, and interviews occurring in the winter. Admission decisions are communicated in March. Given the competitiveness and limited seats, especially for entry points like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 6th/9th grades, starting 12-18 months in advance is strongly advised for Glen Ridge residents.
For a family moving to Glen Ridge, what are the key factors in deciding between the excellent public schools and the nearby private options?
This decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and specific program offerings. Glen Ridge Public Schools are consistently top-ranked in NJ, offering a high-quality, tuition-free education with a strong community feel. Families may consider private options for a different pedagogical approach (like the progressive, child-directed model at Montclair Cooperative), a particular religious or single-gender environment (Lacordaire), or more extensive facilities and niche programs in arts or global studies (MKA). The decision also involves considering the financial investment versus property taxes funding public schools. Many families tour both their local Glen Ridge public school and private options to compare culture and fit directly.
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