The Best Private Schools in Ridgewood, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Ridgewood. 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 School
The Elisabeth Morrow School is a highly regarded independent school serving students from age 3 through eighth grade. Located just minutes from Ridgewood in Englewood, this school offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, technology centers, and extensive arts spaces. The school emphasizes character development, critical thinking, and community engagement, with a strong focus on preparing students for top secondary schools. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and academic excellence.
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Montclair Kimberley Academy
Independent School
Montclair Kimberley Academy is a prestigious Pre-K through 12th grade independent school that serves families throughout Northern New Jersey, including Ridgewood. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program alongside advanced placement courses, providing students with globally recognized academic credentials. MKA features three distinct campuses with outstanding facilities including science research centers, performing arts theaters, and extensive athletic complexes. The school is known for its diverse community, exceptional college placement record, and comprehensive extracurricular programs that develop well-rounded students.
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The Academy of Our Lady
Archdiocese of Newark
The Academy of Our Lady is a highly respected Catholic college preparatory school for young women located in neighboring Glen Rock, serving students from Ridgewood and surrounding communities. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with strong emphasis on STEM education, leadership development, and spiritual formation. Facilities include modern science laboratories, technology-enhanced classrooms, and dedicated arts spaces. The Academy is known for its strong sense of community, excellent college acceptance rates, and comprehensive athletic programs. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's supportive environment and academic preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Ridgewood, New Jersey
What are the main private school options for families living in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and what age groups do they serve?
Ridgewood, NJ, is home to several prestigious private schools, though some of the most notable are located in nearby Bergen County towns. Directly in Ridgewood, you'll find The Elisabeth Morrow School, which serves students from age 2 through 8th grade. Just a short drive away in Montclair, Montclair Kimberley Academy offers a Pre-K through 12th grade program. In Glen Rock, The Academy of Our Lady provides a Catholic education for Pre-K through 8th grade. Additionally, many Ridgewood families consider other top-tier Bergen County schools like Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood or Saddle River Day School. The concentration of high-quality options in this region is a significant draw for families.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Ridgewood, NJ, area compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Ridgewood area is generally above the New Jersey state average for private education, reflecting the high cost of living and the prestigious nature of these institutions. For the 2024-2025 school year, expect ranges from approximately $30,000 to over $50,000 annually for day schools, depending on the grade level and school. Most schools, including The Elisabeth Morrow School and Montclair Kimberley Academy, have robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admissions, as funds are limited. Additionally, New Jersey's "Opportunity Scholarship Act" tax credit program is not currently active, so most aid comes directly from the schools' endowments.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs distinguish private schools in the Ridgewood, NJ, area from public options?
Private schools in the Ridgewood area often offer specialized programs that complement the already excellent Ridgewood Public Schools. Distinctive offerings include world language immersion starting in early childhood (a hallmark of The Elisabeth Morrow School), extensive independent study and research opportunities in upper grades at Montclair Kimberley Academy, and faith-based character education at The Academy of Our Lady. Many also feature signature programs in entrepreneurship, robotics, and performing arts with facilities that rival small colleges. Their smaller class sizes allow for highly individualized learning plans and advisory systems, which can be a key differentiator for parents seeking a tailored educational approach.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Ridgewood, New Jersey?
The admissions process for top private schools in the Ridgewood area is highly structured and begins early. For entry points like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 6th/9th grades, the timeline typically starts 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses in the fall (September-November), submitting applications by January deadlines, and completing student assessments/visits in January-February. Decision notifications are usually released in March for the following academic year. Given the competitive nature, especially for entry-level grades, it's highly recommended to tour multiple schools, apply to more than one, and ensure all materials are submitted well before deadlines. Sibling and legacy applicant considerations are common but do not guarantee admission.
For families moving to Ridgewood, what are the key considerations when choosing between the highly-rated public school district and the area's private schools?
This is a common consideration, as Ridgewood Public Schools are consistently ranked among the best in New Jersey. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy and specific student needs. The public district offers a large, comprehensive program with diverse AP courses, athletics, and clubs at no direct tuition cost. Private schools offer smaller, more intimate communities, often with more flexibility in curriculum, earlier world language immersion, and different social dynamics. Some families choose private for elementary years for a particular pedagogical approach (like Montessori or progressive education) and then transition to the public middle or high school. The decision should factor in commute, cost, the child's learning style, and the value placed on a specific private school's community and mission.
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