The Best Private Schools in Jericho, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Jericho. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Friends Academy
Independent Quaker School
Friends Academy is a highly respected Quaker independent school serving students from age 3 through 12th grade. Founded on Quaker principles of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality, the school offers an academically challenging program that emphasizes critical thinking and ethical leadership. The 65-acre campus features modern academic buildings, athletic facilities, and arts centers. Friends Academy maintains small class sizes and offers extensive Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and comprehensive arts programs. The school is known for its strong sense of community and exceptional college placement record.
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Portledge School
Independent
Portledge School is a prestigious coeducational independent day school serving students from Pre-Nursery through 12th grade. Located just minutes from Jericho, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The 63-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities. Portledge emphasizes global citizenship and offers robust STEM programs, competitive athletics, and comprehensive arts education. The school maintains strong college placement records with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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The Green Vale School
Independent
The Green Vale School is an esteemed independent day school serving students from Early Childhood through 8th grade. Located in nearby Old Westbury, the school provides a comprehensive educational foundation with emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and leadership skills. The 40-acre campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. Green Vale offers advanced mathematics programs, science research opportunities, and extensive arts and athletics programs. The school prepares students for competitive secondary school placements and maintains a strong reputation for academic rigor and community values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Jericho, New York
What are the primary private school options serving families in Jericho, New York, and what are their educational philosophies?
Jericho, NY, is served by several highly-regarded private schools, though it's important to note their locations. The most prominent are Portledge School (located in Locust Valley, a short commute), Friends Academy (in Locust Valley), and The Green Vale School (in Old Brookville). Portledge offers a college-prep program with a strong emphasis on arts, athletics, and community. Friends Academy is a Quaker institution focusing on values-based education, community service, and intellectual rigor. The Green Vale School is a co-educational independent day school for nursery through 8th grade, known for its strong foundational curriculum and character development. While not within Jericho's postal boundaries, these schools are central to the educational landscape for Jericho families seeking private education.
How does tuition for private schools in the Jericho, NY, area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to New York State?
Tuition in the Jericho-area private schools is among the highest in the nation, reflecting the cost of living and the resources offered. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges approximately from $40,000 to $55,000+ for upper grades. All major schools—Portledge, Friends Academy, and Green Vale—offer need-based financial aid. Additionally, New York State has programs that can help. For example, the state's Child Care Tax Credit may apply to younger grades, and some families may utilize 529 plan funds for K-12 tuition (up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary). It's crucial to inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their specific aid deadlines and requirements, as packages can be substantial but competitive.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are notable at private schools accessible from Jericho, NY?
Schools serving Jericho offer distinct specializations. Portledge School has a renowned STEAM program, a robotics team, and a unique connection to environmental science through its campus. Friends Academy emphasizes global citizenship with extensive language programs, debate, and a nationally recognized community service requirement. The Green Vale School, while ending at 8th grade, provides exceptional foundational STEM labs, world language instruction from an early age, and a strong visual and performing arts program. A key advantage for Jericho residents is the proximity to these resources, allowing for deep immersion in these specialized areas without the need for boarding.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Jericho area, and when should we start?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For entry at any grade, especially pre-K, kindergarten, and 6th/9th grades, families should start researching 18-24 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically in the fall, a year before enrollment), submitting applications by January deadlines (e.g., January 15th), completing student assessments and school visits in January/February, and receiving decisions in March. For Jericho-area schools, sibling and legacy considerations are important, so applying early is critical. Many families also engage with preschools that have established relationships with these feeder schools.
How do the outcomes and environment of Jericho's top-rated public schools compare with the nearby private school options?
This is a central consideration for Jericho families. The Jericho Union Free School District is consistently ranked among the top public school districts in New York and the nation, known for exceptional academics, particularly in math and science. Choosing private is often about educational philosophy and specific offerings rather than a lack of quality. Private schools typically offer smaller class sizes (often 12-15 students vs. 20-25 in public), more individualized attention, distinct values-based curricula (like Quaker principles at Friends), and often a longer school day with integrated extracurriculars. The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks the specialized, independent school environment versus the high-achieving, but larger-scale, comprehensive public school experience.
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