The Best Private Schools in South Ozone Park, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in South Ozone Park. 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 north of South Ozone Park 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 labs, art studios, and athletic spaces. Kew-Forest emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and character development while offering robust extracurricular programs in athletics, arts, and community service.
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Archbishop Molloy High School
Catholic School
Archbishop Molloy High School is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school located in nearby Briarwood, serving students from throughout Queens including South Ozone Park. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with extensive Advanced Placement offerings, competitive athletic teams, and outstanding arts programs. Molloy's strong Marist tradition emphasizes academic excellence, service, and character development. The school boasts impressive college acceptance rates and maintains a supportive community environment with modern facilities and dedicated faculty.
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St. Francis Preparatory School
Catholic School
St. Francis Preparatory School is one of the largest Catholic high schools in the United States, serving students from across Queens including South Ozone Park. The school offers both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs, providing rigorous academic challenges for diverse learners. St. Francis features exceptional facilities including modern science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes Franciscan values while preparing students for college success through comprehensive academic support, extensive extracurricular opportunities, and strong college counseling services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in South Ozone Park, New York
What are the primary private school options for families residing in South Ozone Park, NY, and are they located within the neighborhood?
While South Ozone Park itself is primarily residential with strong public and parochial elementary options, the most prominent private schools serving the area are located in nearby Queens neighborhoods. These include The Kew-Forest School (in Forest Hills), Archbishop Molloy High School (in Briarwood), and St. Francis Preparatory School (in Fresh Meadows). Families in South Ozone Park typically commute to these schools, which are accessible via major roads like the Van Wyck Expressway and Grand Central Parkway, or public transit. It's important for parents to consider the commute time as part of their school selection process.
How does tuition for top private high schools like Archbishop Molloy and St. Francis Prep near South Ozone Park compare, and what financial aid is available?
For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at these Catholic institutions is approximately $11,000 to $12,500. While this is significant, it is notably lower than many independent New York City day schools, which can exceed $60,000. Both schools offer robust financial aid and scholarship programs based on demonstrated need, academic merit, and service. Additionally, New York State offers the Child Safety Fund (formerly known as the Mandated Services Aid program) which provides some tuition relief for qualifying families at registered non-public schools. It's crucial to apply for financial aid directly through the school's portal (often using TADS or FACTS) by their early deadlines.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs draw South Ozone Park students to schools like The Kew-Forest School?
The Kew-Forest School, as an independent Pre-K through 12 school, offers distinct programs that attract families from South Ozone Park seeking a specific educational environment. These include a globally-focused curriculum with advanced language studies, a renowned visual and performing arts program, and a strong emphasis on college preparatory writing and research across all grades. Its smaller size allows for highly individualized attention, which is a key differentiator from the larger local Catholic high schools. For families interested in a secular, progressive education with a path to competitive colleges, Kew-Forest provides a unique option in the Queens landscape.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools like St. Francis Prep that serve South Ozone Park?
The enrollment process for these schools begins early. For 9th grade entry, families should start researching in the fall of their child's 7th grade year. The process typically involves: 1) Attending open houses (held in the fall), 2) Registering for and taking the High School Placement Test (HSPT) or the school's own entrance exam, usually in November or December of 8th grade, 3) Submitting an application with transcripts and recommendations by December/January, and 4) Receiving decisions in February. St. Francis Prep, being one of the largest private Catholic schools in the nation, has a highly competitive process, so early preparation is essential for South Ozone Park applicants.
For a family in South Ozone Park deciding between a local public school and a private school, what are the key local considerations?
The decision in South Ozone Park often hinges on several local factors. The area is zoned for NYC District 27 public schools. Key considerations include: **Curriculum & Specialization:** Private schools offer religious education (Catholic) or specific pedagogical approaches (like Kew-Forest's independence) that public schools do not. **Class Size:** Private schools generally have smaller class sizes than the crowded local public middle and high schools. **Commute vs. Proximity:** Attending a top-tier public school like Baccalaureate School for Global Education often requires a lottery or test, while a private school requires tuition but offers a guaranteed seat, albeit with a commute. **Long-Term Planning:** Many families view private high school investment as a direct pipeline to competitive colleges, which can be a driving factor in Queens, where competition for top CUNY and SUNY spots is intense.
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