The Best Private Schools in Oakland Gardens, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Oakland Gardens. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Kew-Forest School
Independent
The Kew-Forest School is one of Queens' oldest independent schools, serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located just minutes from Oakland Gardens in Forest Hills, this prestigious institution offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, art studios, and athletic spaces. With a strong emphasis on both academic excellence and character development, Kew-Forest provides comprehensive Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and extensive arts programs. The school maintains a diverse community and has a proven track record of graduates attending top-tier universities.
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The Lowell School
Independent
Located in nearby Douglaston, The Lowell School has been serving families in northeast Queens for over five decades. This independent Montessori school offers education from early childhood through middle school, emphasizing individualized learning and hands-on experiences. The school features modern classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and specialized areas for art, music, and physical education. Lowell's curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking skills while maintaining the core principles of Montessori education. The school is particularly noted for its warm community atmosphere, experienced faculty, and strong parent involvement, making it a popular choice for Oakland Gardens families seeking progressive education.
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The Windsor School
Independent
The Windsor School in Flushing serves students in grades 6-12 and is easily accessible from Oakland Gardens. This independent college preparatory school offers a comprehensive academic program with small class sizes and individualized attention. Windsor provides a diverse learning environment with students from various cultural backgrounds, including an international student program. The curriculum includes honors and advanced level courses, comprehensive college counseling, and extensive extracurricular opportunities in athletics, arts, and community service. The school is known for its supportive faculty, strong college placement record, and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for higher education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Oakland Gardens, New York
What are the primary private school options available within or very close to Oakland Gardens, NY, and what are their educational philosophies?
Oakland Gardens itself is a residential neighborhood within the borough of Queens, and while it has excellent public schools, nearby private options include several notable institutions. The Kew-Forest School (in Forest Hills) offers a progressive, college-preparatory education from Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on individual attention. The Lowell School (in Flushing) is a Catholic elementary school (Pre-K-8) providing a values-based education. The Windsor School (in Flushing) is an independent, co-ed high school known for its supportive environment and personalized approach for a diverse student body, including international students. Parents in Oakland Gardens often consider these schools for their distinct philosophies, from progressive independent to faith-based education.
How does tuition for private schools in the Oakland Gardens, NY area compare to the broader New York City metro, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Oakland Gardens/Queens area is generally somewhat lower than comparable schools in Manhattan or certain parts of Brooklyn, but it remains a significant investment. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $15,000-$25,000 for elementary grades and $30,000-$40,000+ for high school. All the mentioned schools offer need-based financial aid, and some may have merit scholarships. Critically, New York State offers the Child Care Tax Credit for eligible expenses, and some families may utilize 529 plan funds for K-12 tuition (up to $10,000 per year). It's essential to inquire directly with each school about their specific aid deadlines and application processes (often requiring the SSS/Clarity application).
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Oakland Gardens, NY offer that leverage the city's resources?
Schools in this Queens corridor excel at utilizing New York City as an extended classroom. The Kew-Forest School, for instance, has a renowned Visual and Performing Arts program with partnerships at local museums and theaters. The Windsor School often incorporates project-based learning that connects to the diverse cultural institutions in Flushing and across the city. Given Oakland Gardens' proximity to major highways and subway lines, schools frequently organize trips to the American Museum of Natural History, Queens Botanical Garden, and Citi Field for interdisciplinary learning. Many also offer robust STEM programs with competitions and partnerships linked to NYC's tech and engineering sectors.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Oakland Gardens, NY families?
The admissions process for NYC-area private schools is highly structured and often begins over a year in advance. For fall entry, the key timeline is: **Spring/Summer (Year Prior):** Research and attend open houses. **September-January:** Submit applications (common platforms include Ravenna or school-specific forms). **October-February:** Student assessments, interviews, and school visits occur. **March:** Most independent day schools release admissions decisions on a common notification date. For schools like The Lowell School (Catholic), the process may be more rolling but still competitive. Given the demand in Queens, it is crucial for Oakland Gardens parents to start early, especially for entry points like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 9th grade.
For families in Oakland Gardens weighing options, what are the notable advantages of local private schools compared to the highly-rated public schools in District 26?
Oakland Gardens is part of NYC's District 26, which is consistently the highest-performing public school district in the city. The choice often comes down to specific family priorities. Private schools like Kew-Forest or Windsor offer much smaller class sizes (often 12-15 students vs. 25-30 in public), more individualized learning plans, and specialized curricula (e.g., International Baccalaureate or advanced arts tracks) that may not be available in even the best public schools. They also provide greater continuity from elementary through high school, avoiding the competitive NYC specialized high school admissions process. However, this comes at a high financial cost, whereas District 26 public schools offer a top-tier education free of charge. The decision typically hinges on the desire for a specific educational philosophy, religious foundation, or more tailored student support.
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