The Best Private Schools in Westlake, Oregon
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Westlake. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Catlin Gabel School
Independent
Catlin Gabel is one of Portland's most prestigious independent schools, serving students from preschool through 12th grade. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. With a 8:1 student-teacher ratio, students receive personalized attention in state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic complexes. The campus spans 67 acres with extensive outdoor learning spaces. The school consistently produces graduates who attend top-tier colleges and universities nationwide.
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Oregon Episcopal School
Independent
Oregon Episcopal School offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade education on a beautiful 59-acre campus. The school combines academic excellence with character development and global perspective. Notable features include a robust outdoor education program, extensive arts facilities, and competitive athletics. OES maintains small class sizes and offers a diverse curriculum including Advanced Placement courses and international study opportunities. The school community emphasizes inclusivity and service learning while preparing students for success in college and beyond.
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French American International School
Independent
French American International School provides a unique bilingual education from preschool through 8th grade, with many students continuing to top local high schools. The school offers both French and International Baccalaureate curricula, creating globally-minded students fluent in multiple languages. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. FAIS emphasizes cultural understanding and academic rigor, with students consistently demonstrating exceptional academic achievement and cultural competence. The school serves families throughout the Portland metropolitan area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Westlake, Oregon
What are the primary private school options serving families in Westlake, Oregon, and what are their educational philosophies?
While Westlake itself is a small community, it is situated within the Portland metropolitan area, providing access to several prestigious private schools. The most notable nearby institutions include Catlin Gabel School (in Portland), known for its progressive, student-centered approach and strong arts and sciences; Oregon Episcopal School (in Southwest Portland), which offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum within an ethical framework; and the French American International School (in Southwest Portland), providing a bilingual, multicultural, and International Baccalaureate (IB) education. Families in Westlake typically consider these schools, which may involve a commute, as the primary private options due to their national reputations and diverse educational models.
How does tuition at top private schools near Westlake, Oregon, compare, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition for the leading private schools accessible from Westlake, OR, is significant, reflecting their resources and reputations. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition ranges approximately from $30,000 to $40,000+ for upper grades. Catlin Gabel and Oregon Episcopal School are at the higher end of this spectrum. Importantly, all these schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. For Oregon residents, it's also worth investigating the state's "Opportunity Grant" for post-secondary education, though K-12 specific aid is primarily through the schools themselves. Parents should apply for financial aid simultaneously with admissions, as funds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Westlake/Portland area that differentiate them?
The private schools near Westlake, OR, offer distinctive programs that cater to varied interests. Catlin Gabel is renowned for its experiential "May Project" for seniors and extensive outdoor education. Oregon Episcopal School (OES) features a unique global studies program and a 40-acre campus with a robotics lab and extensive arts facilities. The French American International School stands out with its full bilingual (French/English) immersion from preschool, leading to an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Additionally, many of these schools leverage Oregon's natural environment for exceptional outdoor science and sustainability programs, which are a hallmark of education in this region.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Westlake, Oregon, area?
The admissions process for top-tier schools like Catlin Gabel, OES, and French American International is highly structured and begins well over a year in advance. The timeline typically starts in the early fall (September-October) with open houses and campus tours. Application deadlines are usually in early to mid-January for the following academic year. The process includes submitting an application, teacher recommendations, school records, and often a student assessment or visit. Admissions decisions are communicated in mid-March. Given the competitive nature and limited spaces, especially in entry grades, families in Westlake are advised to start research and visits 18-24 months before desired enrollment.
For a family living in Westlake, Oregon, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school in Portland?
Families in Westlake must weigh several local factors. The Westlake area is served by the Lake Oswego School District, which is itself highly rated. The primary considerations are educational philosophy, class size, and specific program offerings. Private schools offer smaller class sizes, specialized curricula (like IB or progressive models), and often more extensive resources in arts and technology. The trade-off includes a substantial financial investment and a daily commute into Portland. Additionally, consider the community aspect: attending a local public school fosters neighborhood connections, while a private school creates a community that may be geographically dispersed. Visiting both types of schools is crucial to understanding the culture and fit for your child.