2024 Best Private K-12 Schools in Minnesota

• Eden Prairie, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  74 reviews

Parent: Our children received a world-class education at ISM. They were extremely well-prepared for college and both received merit-based Regent Scholarships (full-ride tuition) for all four years of their university expreriences thanks to the International School of Minnesota. The math program is second to none in the Twin City area, with most students successfully completing all AP math courses offered by the College Board by their junior year and then taking at least one more year of college level math before graduating. Teachers at ISM are passionate about the subjects they teach. The school is passionate about students' success in academics, in citizenship, and in extra-curriculars. One of the greatest aspects of the school is the annual all-school musical where students from first to twelfth grade work together to create extraordinary, memorable performances! Our children learned to accept and celebrate diversity from the earliest age at ISM and are avid world travelers & citizens.... Read 74 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 310

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Saint Paul, MN•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  101 reviews

Middle school student: I moved to this school in 4th Grade because I have a parent who works at SPA. As soon as I walked in the door, the school scenery and aesthetic was amazing. From the convenient gender-neutral bathrooms to the many flexible classrooms and technology, SPA is a place of moving forward and shaping the minds and hearts of children. The teachers at this school are out of this world and are some of the nicest human beings you will ever meet. They form strong connections with me and my peers that are important in a class. SPA has many programs that help with kids that are behind or in need of more attention as well. Overall, SPA is a place of joy and professionalism and I definitely recommend going here!... Read 101 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 890

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• St. Paul, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  163 reviews

Parent: Our family unexpectedly found ourselves seeking a private school for our children last year. We were hesitant to start an independent school search as we were concerned the atmosphere would feel elitist and stray from our down-to-earth values. We were blown away by MPA, and our concerns were left at the door. MPA is the most inviting and warm environment, with the perfect blend of challenging academics and a nurturing approach. Once starting the school year, our children were immediately seen as a part of the community and valued for their strengths while the fantastic teachers honed in on their growth areas. We are so fortunate for MPA and have not looked back since enrolling. We can not recommend MPA enough!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 582

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Hopkins, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  101 reviews

Parent: Absolutely exceptional school! The staff and teachers are 1000% committed to student success. The preparation and training is parallel to none. Each year builds upon another in ways missing from other schools. Students are nurtured to excel and thrive, to find their passions. Yes it’s competitive, but so is life and students are set up for success.... Read 101 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,370

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Minneapolis, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  107 reviews

Senior: Teachers have always been readily available and happy to help no matter the time of day. The dining service is absolutely outstanding with many options for people on various diets. The campus and building are always excellently maintained by the facilities staff. There’s a lot of promotion to join clubs, sports, special programs and other activities and I’m pretty sure none of them have cuts. From a culture stand point, it is incredible welcoming and there are numerous yearly events that are unique to the school. Some of the less greats thing would be the sports equipment and facilities (especially baseball and swimming) could use a little work. Also, as much of the school promotes open conversations in the end the school is very much liberal so more moderate or conservative viewpoints may not be as inclined to speak up. However, in my four years, I have never heard of instances of discrimination because of political beliefs... Read 107 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,218

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Minneapolis, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  118 reviews

Parent: Minnehaha is a wonderful school! We have three kids who've attended Minnehaha ranging from middle school through graduation. Minnehaha has prepared them extremely well for college and beyond. The small class sizes allow for students to engage with the faculty frequently to foster continued learning. In addition to exceptional academics, Minnehaha creates an environment where students grew and develop as unique individuals. While intentionally rooted in the Christian faith tradition, Minnehaha allows for students to explore their own faith journey in a safe community. We would highly recommend Minnehaha Academy to families!... Read 118 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 844

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Fridley, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  21 reviews

Junior: Being a student at Al-Amal School has been an awe-inspiring journey, brimming with personal growth, invaluable learning opportunities, and unforgettable moments. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be a part of this exceptional institution that places equal emphasis on fostering academic excellence and nurturing character development. I definitely would love to see more changes as the school goes on. Especially with sports, clubs, and extracurriculars. Even though this is a academic school we need basic clubs to be more interactive with the school and create a closer community.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 393

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Plymouth, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  150 reviews

Parent: I have a lower school and middle school student currently enrolled in Providence for our 3rd year at this school and I can say with confidence that this is the school my children will graduate from. From the moment we first entered the building for a tour, we felt something special. Not only is the school building beautiful inside and out but the community is equally amazing. From day one, both of my children came home saying "Everyone is so nice, there are no bullies" and this has not changed. By parent-teacher conferences of our first year (two months after the start of the school year) I felt like the teachers had gotten to know my children at their core: strengths and growth areas. This is true even for my middle school student who had 7 teachers! Everyone at Providence, from the amazing private chefs to the wonderful teachers/faculty/admin to the protective security guards to the kind custodians is there to support every student to become the best human they can be.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A

• Students 941

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Mendota Heights, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  186 reviews

Parent: We are relatively new to the Visitation community, but it immediately felt like home. From the first time we set foot in the door of the Portress we knew that it was special. Our daughters were welcomed by their fellow students with open arms, which isn't always the case with tween/teenage girls. The teachers are masters of their crafts and it shows in their passion and engagement with the girls. They know how girls learn and how to teach girls -- the extra help that they have for students who need it is amazing. And the opportunities that are available to these girls are absolutely incredible -- we feel so blessed that Vis has been such a great fit for our family. We tell everyone who asks how much we love it and we can't wait until our younger girls can walk the halls at Vis! If you are looking for a school that really knows girls and what they are cabable of -- schedule a tour! You won't regret it.... Read 186 reviews

• grade A

• Students 601

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Fergus Falls, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  71 reviews

Parent: Our daughter has attended Hillcrest since 7th grade and she will graduate in 2022. We love the culture and the people! All staff genuinely care about the students and allow for individual personalities, they truly can excel while being allowed to be themselves. She has made lifelong friends and has grown academically, spiritually, and socially. She has had many positive experiences that will impact her for the rest of her life. Our only regret is that we didn’t send all of our children there.... Read 71 reviews

• grade A

• Students 344

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Woodbury, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  89 reviews

Senior: A good school with good teachers (mostly). Very conservative with traditional views on the bible. Arent extremely accepting of new world ideas. NLA has a very good support system and a tight-knit community. They are there to help you succeed. Dont attend this school for sports, it's a more art-centered school. They have fun traditions such as decade dance and pep fests.... Read 89 reviews

• grade A

• Students 748

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Duluth, MN•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  55 reviews

Parent: Marshall School has incredibly dedicated and supportive teachers! Their encouragement enabled my kids to learn and understand the required curriculum while still exploring and developing their own diverse interests. Teachers emphasize strong academic habits, while still recognizing that each child learns differently along the way. Marshall allows teachers to have flexibility: there were many times where students could choose their assignment based on what fits their particular learning style. The college counseling program is top-notch and starts early! The International program at Marshall is very strong, with students from as many as ten different countries living in the on-campus dorm. Having them around is beneficial to all and expands perspectives! Marshall School has the most beautiful campus located within the vibrant city of Duluth. The campus has beautiful trails for walking, biking, and skiing, and the city is located on the world's largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior.... Read 55 reviews

• grade A

• Students 509

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• White Bear Lake, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  19 reviews

Parent: We absolutely love Liberty! The teachers, staff and students are exceptional. The care shown towards the students is amazing. The values and education align with our family and we are so grateful that we found Liberty!... Read 19 reviews

• grade A

• Students 443

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Brooklyn Park, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  115 reviews

Alum: I am so thankful for my time at Maranatha! I had the opportunity to learn from several wonderful teachers and be surrounded by opportunities for growth in my areas of interest. The community I found at MCA was truly unique, for I was surrounded by other students who were passionate about their relationships with Jesus. There are so many extracurriculars to get involved in, too, which was one of the highlights of my high school experience. Additionally, I found the class sizes to be just right. Overall, Maranatha offers opportunities that are set apart from other schools and there is a clear focus on providing education through a Christian lens.... Read 115 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 870

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Mankato, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  40 reviews

Senior: It's rather progressive considering it's a Catholic school which I like. The small size allows for everyone to get to know each other easier and allow for students to work more one on one with the teachers and staff if need be.... Read 40 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 599

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Mankato, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Senior: Grace Christian School is a nice small christian school. Even though it may seem small you learn to get along with everyone and work as a team. The teachers are great; you get help if you are struggling to learn something. And the teachers care about their students.... Read 1 review

• grade A minus

• Students 35

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Rochester, MN•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  29 reviews

Senior: I have loved my education at Schaeffer! I have been taught to do everything well: I can speak well, read well, and think well. I love being taught from a Christian worldview, being taught how to defend my faith in the real world, and being taught how to think on a deeper level. Schaeffer has been the place that I have grown so much and I would not want my education to be any other way. The only improvements that the school really needs is a few minor structural things.... Read 29 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 283

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Winsted, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  24 reviews

Parent: We are blessed to be a part of the Holy Trinity community! My daughter just finished 2nd grade and had a fabulous year! She received the sacraments of reconciliation and first communion and it was such a blessing to watch her grow in this process. She has grown so much in her faith and love for Jesus! She stated that she got the tingles and felt peaceful after reconciliation. After first communion she said that could not wait for the next time to receive Jesus again! She is excited to go to mass each day! She has improved academically very well in this past year as well!... Read 24 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 119

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Plymouth, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  18 reviews

Parent: We spent K-2nd in Wayzata schools and pulled our children this year to Fourth Baptist. These are the three biggest differences I’ve noticed: 1. Fourth Baptist focuses on learning phonics, sounds, blending. Wayzata was all about sight words and my son quickly fell behind in reading. 2. Academic rigor. Between weekly spelling words, vocabulary, cursive starting in 1st grade, memorization and reciting in front of peers (to build public speaking skills), book reports, and homework, the academic rigor is more challenging than our Wayzata experience. 3. Transparency. I get a folder home weekly of my kids work. Anywhere between 15-20 pages of Math, history, science, spelling tests, reading comprehension tests, etc. Everything is percentage graded, so I know exactly how my children are doing academically. 4. We absolutely love how the Christian faith is foundational in the Fourth Baptist experience, this is done with great academic excellence and rigor!... Read 18 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 331

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Owatonna, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  5 reviews

Senior: I loved the family atmosphere and the close-knit environment with the students. The teacher to student ratio is very low, so this makes it easy to be close as a whole unit--not divided. Owatonna Christian School made a huge impact in my life, and I'm very thankful for that!... Read 5 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 103

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• East Grand Forks, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  25 reviews

Parent: We love Sacred Heart School and are fortunate to find such a wonderful school family in our area! We send 5 of our 6 children, ranging from Kindergarten to 11th grade and have been impressed with the journey along each step of the way. Sacred Heart School becomes like family and we are thankful that they truly are an extension of our home and the values we want to teach our children. Our children are well rounded, intelligent, selfless, world changing people because of the core values taught to them in our home and continued at Sacred Heart in their education.... Read 25 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 514

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Maple Grove, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  49 reviews

Works Here: I love Heritage Christian Academy. The faculty and staff love Jesus, and it shows in the way they care for and educate their students. HCA is a community that love deeply and work together to make the Truth of God's Word at the heart of all that do together. All for God's glory!... Read 49 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 431

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Saint Cloud, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  60 reviews

Senior: I have gone to Saint Cloud Christian school ever sine I was a kindergartener, meaning I have seen all the changes it has gone through. Saint Cloud Christian school constantly makes an effort to better itself by adding new electives for students, giving students opportunities to go on mission trips, sending out surveys to students about what they would like changed, and even by renovating the classrooms. I really do appreciate that the school's teachers also make a serious effort to help out students who are struggling with classes. Any time I miss a day of school are a part of the lesson, the teacher's will take time out of their day to review over the subject with me. The only issue I truly have with the school is its gym. the gym's floor is outdated and is in major need of renovation with several tiles creating lumps within the ground. I've really appreciated my time at Saint Cloud Christian school and I would recommend it to any new students.... Read 60 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 248

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Crystal, MN•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  5 reviews

Junior: I have been going to RiverTree since Kindergarten and don't want to leave this beautiful place. The environment is truly created so that children can grow into who God has created them to be without a fear of teachers or grades. Grades have never been the priority. Teaching children to care about learning is the priority. Therefore, the grade takes care of itself. Everyone at RiverTree strives to learn and truly cares because we have been trained to be good stewards of what we have been given. Not a resource is wasted. No one is overlooked. The attention given by each teacher is unparalleled. Each teacher notices and cares for the student as an individual child of God, not just another body passing through the building. The community of students and families is not an afterthought and neither is the curriculum. Both are wonderfully designed to compliment Godly living. When I leave this school I will be coming back to visit, and to continue to be a part of that faithful community.... Read 5 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 143

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Minneapolis, MN•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.54 out of 5  28 reviews

Parent: All our children have attended Hope Academy since Kindergarten, they are now in college and high school. The staff and teachers have all gone above and beyond to push my children to do more than they thought possible, have seen my children's hearts behind their behaviors, and have helped them understand the Lord's goodness to them throughout all of life. We are so thankful for Hope Academy and the caring community it has provided for our family!... Read 28 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 544

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1