The Top 10 Best Private Schools in Phoenix for 2026
As an education expert living in Phoenix, parents often ask me for recommendations on the top private schools in the area. With over 80 private schools in the greater Phoenix region, selecting the right school for your child can feel overwhelming. Based on extensive research and campus visits, I‘ve compiled this expert guide on the 10 best private schools in Phoenix.
What Makes a Private School One of the Best in Phoenix?
Elite private schools in Phoenix tend to excel in five key areas:
1. Academic Excellence
Top-tier private schools challenge students with rigorous curriculums taught by passionate, highly qualified teachers. Students consistently test above national averages and gain acceptance to selective colleges.
2. Variety of Programs
Beyond stellar academics, the best schools nurture students‘ unique talents and interests through diverse extracurricular activities like sports, arts, and community service.
3. Cutting-Edge Facilities
Private schools invest in first-class amenities – from STEM labs to acres of green space – that enrich learning environments. State-of-the-art facilities also prepare students for college campuses and future careers.
4. Low Student-Teacher Ratios
Small class sizes allow teachers to personalize instruction to meet individual learning needs. With more one-on-one attention, students build strong relationships and develop confidence.
5. College Preparatory Focus
Premier private schools provide the tools students need to successfully apply for and gain admission to selective colleges. Offerings include standardized test prep, college counseling, and help throughout the entire application process.
Let‘s explore the top 10 private schools excelling across all these fronts.
The Top 10 Private Schools in Phoenix for 2023
1. Brophy College Preparatory
As Arizona‘s only Jesuit high school, Brophy delivers academic rigor rooted in 450 years of Jesuit education. The school consistently appears on lists of best U.S. high schools based on college placement and alumni success.
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Notable stats:
- 100% college acceptance rate
- Average SAT score: 1280
- Student-faculty ratio: 12-to-1
2. Xavier College Preparatory
This all-girls Catholic high school empowers young women within a tight-knit community. Balancing faith and reason, Xavier ignites intellectual curiosity plus skills for leadership.
- 100+ student clubs and activities
- Over 20 athletic teams with multiple state titles
- Visit Website
3. Phoenix Country Day School
As the only secular school on this list, Phoenix Country Day School embraces inclusion across socioeconomic, religious and cultural lines. Students thrive within a vibrant elementary through high school environment.
- Student-centered inquiry fuels love of discovery
- 100% four-year college matriculation
- Visit Website
4. BASIS Phoenix
The BASIS network of charter schools is renowned for intense academics centered around math, science and technology. BASIS students continually ace Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams.
- Average BASIS student takes over 12 AP courses
- Visit Website
5. Bourgade Catholic High School
At this co-ed Catholic high school, the mantra rings true: "Enter to learn, leave to serve." Combining faith and action, Bourgade inspires students to better their local and global communities.
- Over 20 athletic programs with multiple state championship wins
- Over 35 unique student clubs and activities
- Visit Website
6. Midtown Primary School
Fostering a nurturing environment for Preschool to Grade 5 learners, Midtown Primary School champions both academic and social-emotional growth. The school excels at educating the whole child within an intimate setting.
- 10-to-1 student-teacher ratio
- Early childhood education based on project approach
- Visit Website
7. Arizona Lutheran Academy
At this faith-based high school, academic rigor aligns with spiritual development and service learning. Well-rounded graduates earn millions in college scholarship funds.
- Over 30 Honors and 18 AP courses
- Wide breadth of art, music and theater programs
- Visit Website
8. Great Hearts Academies
The Great Hearts classical education model steeps students in the liberal arts while preparing them for competitive colleges. Campuses across Phoenix deliver this esteemed academic program.
- Humanities-focused Socratic teaching
- Public charter school model provides tuition-free access
- Visit Website
9. American Leadership Academy
ALA leads Arizona for academic performance among charter school networks. Coupled with robust arts and athletics, ALA fuels well-rounded student development.
- Nationally ranked athletic programs
- STEAM-focused (adding “arts”) approach in earlier grades
- Visit Website
10. Desert View Academy
This intimate private academy serves preschool to grade five students within personalized learning plans. The school embraces neurodiversity and supports gifted to special needs learners.
- Mindfulness and social-emotional intelligence embedded in curricula
- Visit Website
Key Takeaways for Selecting a Private School
I hope this guide provides a useful overview of amazing private schools available as we seek the best educational fit for your child. Schedule tours, attend open houses, evaluate culture – then follow your instincts. Please reach out with any questions as you navigate this important decision. Wishing your student much success!
