2024 Best Private High Schools in Santa Cruz County

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  45 reviews

Parent: I've looked forward to the opportunity to bring my kids to Kirby for many years. The ethic of care in a culture of achievement allows my children to push toward their own personal goals with ample support. They are inspired by the talents and ambitions of their peers, including the occasional impromptu piano recital in the cafe at lunch! The school has unparalleled access to the arts, which has brought out talents and confidence in my kids I never would have known. My kids were average students prior to Kirby and both have become stronger and more focused. The teachers really get to know your child so they can push them to their growth edge. For the students who are ready for graduate-school level work, which I see in some of the high schoolers, the teachers are ready to meet their enthusiam with expertise and challenge. Every Kirby student is celebrated for their own greatest strength, whether it's academics, song-writing, or gymnastics.... Read 45 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 188

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Watsonville, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  86 reviews

Parent: I have two children who have graduated St Francis and one currently attending. We are so fortunate to have this school in our area. The academics are top quality, the campus is beautiful & safe, and the entire school staff take the time to know each student by name. The students are kind & supportive of each other, even across class levels. Love this school!... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 225

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• La Selva Beach, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  80 reviews

Alum: My experience at Monterey Bay Academy was very positive. Hearing that you will be getting to build great relationships that last a lifetime really captivated me. That is why I chose to go there and it is safe to say I was very impressed. There is a dorm with an outstanding environment to help others there. It's where you meet some of the coolest people and form bonds that last. The teachers and staff are super dedicated, and they actually helped us overcome the obstacles we faced. Plus, the campus is like something out of a dream with the coastline as the backdrop. Probably the worst thing about my experience there was the cafeteria food (which was honestly not that bad) There is almost nothing I would change.... Read 80 reviews

• grade A

• Students 176

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Watsonville, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.86 out of 5  14 reviews

Junior: I love Mount Madonna School, the teachers are there to help you and are always there for you. They also integrate learning in the outdoors, teaching children academics and how to be a whole person with a emphasis on community. I've been at this school since Pre-School and have loved every second of it, it truly is giving me a wonderful education!... Read 14 reviews

• grade A

• Students 164

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Watsonville, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  148 reviews

Alum: Monte Vista Christian is a wonderful school for me. I am thriving in an environment that stimulates my curiosity, promotes cooperation and kindness, encourages a healthy lifestyle, and seems to spark my interest to succeed. There is no such thing as a perfect school. But for me, this a great choice. The staff is devoted to the kids and respectful to parents, in my experience. My impression is that most of the teachers are well qualified and excited about their work. I was a little concerned about the Christian education aspect usurping science topics such as evolution, but that is not the case. In fact, the science program covers core topics and is conscious of environmental issues. The food program is convenient! Normally I participate in the lunch program and on occasion may even pick up breakfast if I have overslept; it's great to have the option. The campus facility is amazing and the new theater remarkable. The school offers lots of choices for sports programs.... Read 148 reviews

• grade A

• Students 854

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Watsonville, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• grade unavailable

• Students 191

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Watsonville, CA•

• Private School•

• 2-12

• grade unavailable

• Students 37

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Soquel, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• grade unavailable

• Students 24

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1