The Best Private Schools in Union, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Union. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child
Holy Child Network of Schools
Oak Knoll School is a highly-regarded Catholic independent school serving students from Union County and surrounding areas. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory education from elementary through high school, with small class sizes and individualized attention. Known for its strong academic programs, the school features state-of-the-art STEM facilities, comprehensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. The campus includes modern science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. Parent satisfaction is exceptionally high, with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities.
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Kent Place School
Independent
Kent Place School is one of New Jersey's premier independent all-girls schools, serving the Union County region including Union families. The school offers a comprehensive educational experience from primary through secondary levels with an emphasis on leadership development and academic excellence. The curriculum includes extensive AP course offerings, robust STEM programs, and outstanding arts education. The 26-acre campus features modern academic buildings, science and innovation centers, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. The school is particularly noted for its strong community atmosphere and exceptional college placement record.
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The Wardlaw+Hartridge School
Independent
The Wardlaw+Hartridge School serves students from Union County and central New Jersey with a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade program. The school offers both International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement curricula, providing students with multiple pathways to academic excellence. The 36-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school emphasizes global education and character development alongside strong academics. With a diverse student body and dedicated faculty, the school maintains a strong reputation for preparing students for competitive colleges while fostering individual growth and community engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Union, New Jersey
What are the primary private school options available to families residing in Union, New Jersey, and are they located directly in town?
While Union, NJ itself has a limited number of private schools, it is centrally located near several of the state's most prestigious institutions. The top-tier schools frequently considered by Union families include Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child (co-ed K-6, all-girls 7-12) in Summit, Kent Place School (all-girls, K-12) in Summit, and The Wardlaw+Hartridge School (co-ed, PreK-12) in Edison. Union's proximity to major highways like the Garden State Parkway makes these schools accessible. Within Union Township, parents may also find parochial options like St. Michael School (PreK-8) and Union Catholic High School.
How does tuition for top private schools near Union, NJ compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading day schools in the Union area is significant, often ranging from approximately $30,000 to over $50,000 annually for upper grades. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect figures in the mid-$40,000s for schools like Kent Place and Wardlaw+Hartridge. Importantly, New Jersey has the "Opportunity Scholarship Act" (OSA) proposed legislation, but currently, no broad state voucher program exists. However, these schools offer substantial need-based financial aid. It is crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, using systems like SSS (School and Student Services), as schools allocate aid budgets early. Some schools also offer merit scholarships.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Union, NJ area that distinguish them?
Schools in this region leverage their resources and proximity to New York City and major corporate hubs. Kent Place School has a renowned Ethics Institute and a strong STEM program. Oak Knoll emphasizes leadership and social justice through its Holy Child network. The Wardlaw+Hartridge School offers a globally-focused curriculum with advanced science research opportunities and a renowned debate team. A common advantage for Union-area students is access to extensive internship and mentorship programs in nearby pharmaceutical, finance, and tech industries, facilitated by the schools' robust alumni networks in the tristate area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Union, NJ families?
The process is highly structured and begins over a year in advance. For entry in Fall 2025, families should start researching in Spring 2024. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically September-November 2024), submitting applications by early January 2025 (with standardized testing like the ISEE or SSAT often required), and completing student interviews and visits by February. Admission decisions are released in mid-March. For younger grades, especially Pre-K and Kindergarten, demand is extremely high, and applying early is critical. Sibling and legacy applicants often have priority, but it is not a guarantee.
For a family in Union Township weighing private versus public school, what are the key local considerations?
Union Township Public Schools are well-regarded, which makes the decision highly personal. Key considerations include: 1) **Class Size**: Union public high schools have larger classes (often 25+ students), while private options maintain 12-18. 2) **Specialized Focus**: If a child has a strong inclination toward arts, independent research, or a single-sex education, private schools offer dedicated programs. 3) **Logistics**: Commute to a private school requires planning, whereas public school is neighborhood-based. 4) **Financial Impact**: The cost of private tuition versus potential property tax savings in a town with strong public schools is a major calculation. Many Union families choose public schools for elementary and consider a private switch for middle or high school for more rigorous college preparatory environments.
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