2023 Best Private High Schools in Hillsborough County

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  88 reviews

Parent: Berkeley is a great school. Lots of amazing teachers who really care about their students academic growth and well being. Children are challenged with an exciting, broad curriculum that prepares them well for high school. Middle schoolers get to try as many sports as they want. High school students are offered a good number of courses with levels giving everyone a chance to be challenged and succeed . There is a myriad of Extracurricular activities and the school is generally open to students interests, so if they are interested in a club that does not exist they will likely be able to form one. The investment in and quality of high school sports varies depending on sport, so there is room for improvement there. The arts program is very good. I have been impressed by their theater performances. I am happy we made the decision to have our kids at Berkeley.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,401

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  83 reviews

Parent: After my wife and I toured numerous private school options, it was evident that the academic rigor, location, and sense of community at Prep was irreplaceable. Our son is a rising Junior and we cannot be more thrilled with how he has progressed academically, socially, and as a newly minted global citizen (having traveled through Europe via a Tampa Prep based practicum). However, what has amazed us the most, was experiencing the thoughtfulness demonstrated by the faculty, when my son fractured his leg. I was shocked at the number of phone calls we received from the teachers, coaches, etc. They genuinely wanted to understand how they could be supportive throughout his future healing process. It has also become clear that the leadership team is best in class. While it is typically difficult for any organization to execute on their long-term strategies while maintaining a consistent standard of excellence day to day...Tampa Prep continues to deliver. See you on campus soon!... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 704

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  106 reviews

Middle School Student: I have been attending Carrollwood Day School for the majority of my life, and I can confidently say that there is no better environment than CDS. All of the teachers genuinely care about you and push you to succeed in and out of the classroom. Since CDS is an IB school, class sizes are small (no more than 18 students), enriching, and truly prepare you for college. CDS also offers a wide array of sports and has a strong arts program offered at every grade level, with music, theater, and visual art options for electives. Recently, CDS built a brand-new athletic complex and gymnasium accompanied by a weight room, and a new building is being built at the moment, expanding the Middle School/Upper School campus. The faculty and staff at CDS are incredibly welcoming and kind; once I forgot my lunch in the car and when a teacher noticed, they didn't hesitate to buy me a lunch from FLIK (our dining service). Overall, I strongly recommend Carrollwood Day School for any family looking to enroll!... Read 106 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,163

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  124 reviews

Senior: 140 years of excellence in education! Wow! This is a state of the art school with impeccable service, modern classrooms and mostly excellent teachers. The robust curriculum, cutting edge science labs, theater & art facilities are complemented well by christian values and a highly professional & dedicated administration/staff. Well worth the investment. We were grateful to have been a part of this excellent & caring community. Hoping more generations of our family will attend AHN in years to come.... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 964

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.49 out of 5  123 reviews

Alum: I transferred into Jesuit my sophomore year and immediately felt welcome. The best part for me was that the teachers and counselors genuinely cared about me and they were there to help us succeed. Peer ministry and the Catholic dominance provided a great balance and eye opening experience. I don't really have a bad experience with Jesuit other than maybe that the rules are little too picky. I would like to see the school days be shorter because for me and many others who had to drive 45 minutes or more everyday made the days a lot longer.... Read 123 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 775

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  83 reviews

Parent: Hands down, this is (by far) the best Islamic school in Florida. We have been to (or know students at) many other Islamic schools in Florida, and UAF has the best overall program. The teachers and staff are truly passionate and invested in each of the children, and from day one we were always treated with sincere kindness and valued as individuals. I love the diversity at the school, the fact that UAF provides real-world experiences, and there is a solid balance between academics, religion, and social/emotional well-being. All of the classes challenge the students so they are constantly growing… and the school works very hard to ensure the students are set up for success in the future. From kindergarten through high school, my kids have all had the best educational experience that I could possibly hope for. Like any school, there is always room to improve… however, I consistently see the school focusing on developing in all areas of importance.... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 774

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  161 reviews

Alum: Tampa Catholic is a private, Catholic high school in Tampa, FL; however, it's welcoming of students of all religious denominations and backgrounds. The faculty is outstanding and the alumni network is strong!... Read 161 reviews

• grade A

• Students 715

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  39 reviews

Sophomore: I would like to see the American Youth Academy appeal more to its students. Whether it be through encouraging clubs, college readiness, or so on, AYA needs to work on making the scholastic experience more appealing to students. Also, the teachers should look into more strategies to make learning more enjoyable for students through incentives and creative teaching styles, rather than the usual lecture style. Otherwise, AYA does a great job at disciplining students and having a rather healthy and Islamic school culture.... Read 39 reviews

• grade A

• Students 718

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  8 reviews

Parent: Both of my girls graduated from Paideia, and my wife and I wouldn’t trade their Paideia education for anything. They were given their own copy of the Great Books of the Western World as high school sophomores and used them as textbooks in high school. They learned how to think logically, argue persuasively, think critically, and write well. They were so well prepared for college that it came easy to them. Most importantly, they learned how to love Christ at a deeper level from teachers who loved them. And the Shakespeare plays are great!... Read 8 reviews

• grade A

• Students 95

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  48 reviews

Parent: The school is such a warm and welcoming environment. My son is thriving here. The staff, parents and students are friendly. The academics are rigorous and they help push my son to do better. I can highly recommend this school!... Read 48 reviews

• grade A

• Students 287

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: We’ve only been at Cambridge Christian School for one year. Our son is in kindergarten and we have been blown away at all he has learned. He’s reading and writing. WOW! I’m a former kindergarten teacher in an inner city school in Houston, Texas. Our curriculum never touched what these children are learning. I’m truly amazed. Their extra activities are also astounding. The science, math, projects, even daily activities he comes home with are intricate and thought out. My son’s heart for Jesus has truly grown. He loves God. He prays for others and his little sister and loves and cares for her. One of my favorite things to do is attend chapel with my son. When we first toured this school, we felt the love of God on the teachers and staff. It was a no brainer when we walked into the school. It immediately felt like home. I’m so happy God lead my family to this school. It has truly been a blessing. We have a little one entering pre-k 3 and I see them both graduating from this school!... Read 76 reviews

• grade A

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Seffner, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  112 reviews

Senior: Overall, my time at Seffner Christian Academy has been well spent. The environment of the school is perfect for the academic, athlete, and artist, and the culture there is incomparable. The school’s primary focus is stated outright to incoming students and faculty and is repeated often by the administration; it helps to remind everyone that we are a united front in everything we do. I can’t imagine a better place to be!... Read 112 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 774

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  19 reviews

Works Here: A very passionate school to be a part of! Cristo Rey ensures students are ready not only to enter college but that they graduate with a degree and connections in the corporate community. The curriculum includes 4 years of college readiness plus 4 years of corporate work experience. Its not just a community of educators, but the relationships with families and students as well as the relationship throughout the community that makes Cristo Rey special. Moreover, it is an excellent place to work with many opportunities for professional development and growth.... Read 19 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 212

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Odessa, FL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  4 reviews

Works Here: Amazing teachers that care, small class sizes and a beautiful property! I have watched students grow into young adults and come out of their shell in the 3 years I have been here. I am consistently amazed at how creative the faculty and staff are with their teaching methods. I have worked many places in my life, but none as rewarding as Keystone Prep. When I am blessed with children one day, I can only hope a school like this is available.... Read 4 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 47

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Ruskin, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  13 reviews

Senior: Ruskin Christian School is a private school located in Ruskin, FL. It provides an environment excellent students striving to learn and build a sense of community at school. The faculties there are always supportive of the students, and they, together, teach the students to become a better Christian.... Read 13 reviews

• grade B

• Students 270

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Valrico, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  22 reviews

Junior: I enjoyed going to the school! The guidance counselor is very helpful, and all the teachers care about your grades. You are able to do so much more and do better because of the small environment. Teachers will have time to help you every day.... Read 22 reviews

• grade B

• Students 261

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.88 out of 5  8 reviews

Parent: Our family came to the USA from Russia, looking for a school that supports an individual learning path, more attention and a place that celebrates my child's uniqueness. A school that could support my son's academic, developmental and social needs. We found all of that and more at Lee Academy. Their excellent teacher-student ratio is extremely beneficial. Each student receives an incredible amount of attention from every teacher in every lesson. The teachers go to great lengths to make sure each child is always progressing toward their full potential. Concepts are taught, studied and authentically assessed for mastery. The teachers are always available to answer questions in class or after class. Of course there is always homework, papers and projects but it is manageable, with dates and timelines clearly defined. There is open communication between students, teachers, parents and administration.... Read 8 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 68

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• grade A

• Students 67

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  9 reviews

Senior: Faith Outreach Academy is a small school, for example my graduating class is eight. Since the classes are so small it is easier for students to get more one on one time with the teacher during class time. Another benefit is the lunch options at the school. I loved most of my time at Faith Outreach, but there were some moments that were not so great. The thing I wish was different was the amount of sports that are available.... Read 9 reviews

• grade A

• Students 172

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Riverview, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  10 reviews

High School Senior: The classes in the school are smaller so you have a great relationship with everybody. Personally, in big classes I feel pressured and nervous about since my school has smaller classes I don't worry about getting things wrong because the students will help you along with the teachers. The atmosphere in Providence is unique because everybody cares for everybody and we don't have the "clicks" that other schools do where they exclude anyone who doesn't have this or that. We love people for who they are and not for what they have.... Read 10 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 205

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• grade B+

• Students 127

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Brandon, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.4 out of 5  5 reviews

Parent: From the first time we stepped onto campus for the tour, we could tell Brandon Academy was a small, quaint school with a big sense of community. All of the teachers and administrators take the time to get to know you and your child personally. It gives me a sense of security knowing my child I've heard horror stories of kids at the local public schools getting "misplaced" or "lost" during car pick up. At Brandon Academy, the small class sizes and low ratio of students to staff takes the worry out of knowing if my child is safe and accounted for. It also opens a door for good communication about my child's needs and the on-goings in the classroom and at the school in general. Teachers and administrators make themselves available and easily accessible to address even the smallest concerns of parents.... Read 5 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 189

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  19 reviews

Works Here: We are giving academically disenfranchised, culturally diverse, and economically disadvantaged students the opportunity of a phenomenal, Christian education. Over 40% of our high school faculty has a Ph.D. Almost 90% of our faculty have a masters degree or higher. Our new high-school is revolutionizing education. This year we have seen our students move to become leaders in their community, school, and family. In the coming year through partnerships with Microsoft Imagine Academy, Co.Starters, the Harrington Mentorship Initiative, and our incredible alumni, we are training tomorrow's business, entrepreneurship, and tech leaders. Come and see, firsthand, through a tour, all the amazing and life-changing things that God is doing on our campus. We are impacting our community for eternity.... Read 19 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 348

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Seffner, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  4 reviews

Senior: I would say I have loved my experience at Hillsborough Baptist school. Ever since I walked into the doors in sixth grade. My teachers and coaches have always pushed me to be the best that I can be and are now pushing me onto the next level in college! Their Christian character and great leadership is something I aspire to be able to show somebody one day.... Read 4 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 144

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Tampa, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  6 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 113

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1