Cleveland, Ohio, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and commitment to education. For families seeking the best educational opportunities, Cleveland offers a range of prestigious private schools that provide exceptional academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and strong community values. In this blog, we will explore some of the best private schools in Cleveland, Ohio, highlighting their unique offerings, academic excellence, and contributions to student development.

Hathaway Brown School

Founded in 1876, Hathaway Brown School is an all-girls institution located in Shaker Heights, a suburb of Cleveland. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, innovative programs, and commitment to empowering young women. Hathaway Brown offers a comprehensive education from early childhood through grade 12, with a strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, the arts, and leadership development.

One of the standout features of Hathaway Brown is its Institute for 21st Century Education, which offers specialized programs in areas such as entrepreneurship, global scholars, and science research. These programs provide students with unique opportunities to explore their interests, engage in real-world projects, and develop critical thinking skills. The school's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community ensures that each student is encouraged to reach her full potential.

University School

University School, founded in 1890, is an independent boys' school with campuses in Shaker Heights and Hunting Valley. The school is dedicated to providing a holistic education that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and leadership. University School serves boys from kindergarten through grade 12 and offers a challenging curriculum designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

University School is known for its outstanding faculty, small class sizes, and individualized attention. The school's commitment to experiential learning is evident in its extensive outdoor education program, which includes activities such as camping, hiking, and environmental stewardship. Additionally, University School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service, allowing students to explore their passions and develop well-rounded skills.

Laurel School

Laurel School, established in 1896, is an independent day school for girls located in Shaker Heights and Russell Township. The school offers a dynamic and challenging academic program from kindergarten through grade 12, with a strong focus on developing leadership, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Laurel School is known for its commitment to experiential learning and its emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education.

One of the unique aspects of Laurel School is its Center for Research on Girls (CRG), which conducts research on issues related to girls' education and development. The CRG's findings inform the school's programs and practices, ensuring that Laurel provides an education that is tailored to the needs and strengths of girls. The school's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment allows students to thrive academically and personally.

Hawken School

Hawken School, founded in 1915, is a coeducational independent school with campuses in Gates Mills and Lyndhurst. The school serves students from preschool through grade 12 and is known for its innovative educational programs, commitment to diversity, and strong sense of community. Hawken School's mission is to prepare students for a changing world through experiential learning, global awareness, and character development.

Hawken School offers a rigorous academic curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, as well as unique programs such as the Mastery School, which emphasizes project-based learning and interdisciplinary studies. The school's commitment to social justice and community engagement is evident in its Service Learning program, which integrates community service into the academic curriculum. Hawken's vibrant arts and athletics programs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop their talents.

Gilmour Academy

Gilmour Academy, founded in 1946, is an independent, Catholic, coeducational school located in Gates Mills. The school offers a comprehensive education from preschool through grade 12, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, faith formation, and character development. Gilmour Academy's mission is to educate the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—preparing students for leadership and service.

Gilmour Academy's academic program includes a wide range of honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, as well as unique offerings such as the Entrepreneurship Institute, which provides students with hands-on experiences in business and innovation. The school's commitment to faith and service is evident in its Campus Ministry program, which offers opportunities for spiritual growth, retreats, and community service. Gilmour's strong arts and athletics programs, along with its state-of-the-art facilities, provide students with a well-rounded educational experience.

Montessori High School at University Circle

Montessori High School at University Circle is a unique independent school that follows the Montessori educational philosophy. Located in the heart of Cleveland's cultural district, the school serves students from grades 9 through 12 and offers a distinctive educational experience that emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on experiences, and global citizenship.

The school's academic program is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which encourages critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural understanding. Montessori High School's commitment to experiential learning is evident in its Urban Farm program, which provides students with opportunities to engage in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. The school's location in University Circle allows students to take advantage of the rich cultural and educational resources of the area, including museums, universities, and research institutions.

Conclusion

Cleveland, Ohio, is home to a diverse array of private schools that offer exceptional educational experiences for students. Whether you are seeking a single-gender or coeducational environment, a focus on STEM or the arts, or a commitment to faith-based education, Cleveland's private schools provide a range of options to meet the needs and aspirations of every student. From Hathaway Brown's empowering all-girls education to University School's holistic approach for boys,

and from Laurel School's emphasis on experiential learning to Gilmour Academy's comprehensive Catholic education, each institution offers unique programs designed to foster academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement.

Other Noteworthy Private Schools in Cleveland

While the aforementioned schools are among the top choices, Cleveland boasts several other reputable private schools that are worth considering:

Saint Ignatius High School

Saint Ignatius High School, founded in 1886, is a private Catholic Jesuit high school for boys located in Cleveland. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, strong emphasis on faith and service, and commitment to developing "Men for Others." Saint Ignatius offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors classes, as well as an extensive co-curricular program that includes athletics, arts, and service opportunities. The school's commitment to fostering a sense of brotherhood and community ensures that students develop strong moral and ethical foundations.

The Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School

The Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School, established in 1963, is an independent Montessori school located in Pepper Pike. The school serves students from toddler through eighth grade and is dedicated to providing a child-centered education that fosters independence, creativity, and a love of learning. Ratner Montessori's curriculum is based on the Montessori method, which emphasizes hands-on learning, individualized instruction, and respect for the child's natural development. The school's small class sizes and nurturing environment allow students to thrive academically and socially.

Hawken Upper School

In addition to its lower and middle school programs, Hawken School's Upper School in Gates Mills offers a challenging and innovative curriculum for students in grades 9-12. The Upper School emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, experiential learning, and global citizenship, preparing students for success in college and beyond. Hawken's unique offerings, such as the Mastery School and the Service Learning program, provide students with opportunities to engage in real-world projects and make meaningful contributions to their communities. The school's vibrant arts and athletics programs, along with its commitment to diversity and inclusion, create a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Montessori School at Holy Rosary

Montessori School at Holy Rosary, located in Cleveland's Little Italy neighborhood, is a private Catholic Montessori school serving children from preschool through eighth grade. The school combines the Montessori method with Catholic values, providing a nurturing and faith-based educational environment. The school's curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, individualized instruction, and the development of critical thinking skills. Montessori School at Holy Rosary's small class sizes and strong sense of community ensure that each child receives personalized attention and support.

Choosing the Right School

When choosing a private school in Cleveland, it's important to consider your child's individual needs, interests, and learning style. Each school offers unique programs and opportunities that cater to different aspects of student development. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best private school for your child:

1. Academic Programs: Look for schools that offer a rigorous and challenging curriculum that aligns with your child's academic goals and interests. Consider the availability of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and specialized programs in areas such as STEM, arts, or entrepreneurship.

2. Extracurricular Activities: Consider the range of extracurricular activities offered by the school, including athletics, arts, clubs, and community service opportunities. Extracurricular activities provide valuable opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build friendships.

3. School Culture and Values: Consider the school's mission, values, and community culture. Look for schools that align with your family's values and provide a supportive and inclusive environment. Visit the school, attend open houses, and talk to current students and parents to get a sense of the school's culture and community.

4. Class Size and Individual Attention: Smaller class sizes often allow for more individualized attention and support for students. Consider the student-to-teacher ratio and the level of personalized instruction and support provided by the school.

5. Location and Facilities: Consider the school's location and facilities, including the availability of transportation, campus amenities, and safety measures. A convenient location and well-maintained facilities can enhance the overall educational experience for your child.

6. Tuition and Financial Aid: Private school tuition can be a significant investment. Consider the cost of tuition and the availability of financial aid or scholarships. Many schools offer financial assistance to help families afford a private education.

Final Thoughts

Cleveland's private schools offer a wealth of opportunities for students to receive a high-quality education in a supportive and enriching environment. Whether you are looking for a single-gender school, a faith-based education, or a Montessori approach, Cleveland's private schools provide diverse options to meet the needs and aspirations of every student. By carefully considering your child's individual needs and researching the unique offerings of each school, you can find the best private school in Cleveland, Ohio, to support your child's academic and personal growth.