Best Portland Schools: Public and Private Schools of Portland Oregon

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Best Portland Schools: Public and Private Schools of Portland Oregon

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Welcome to Our Portland School Rankings Guide

Choosing the right school is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. This guide was created for parents who want a clear, thoughtful view into the best schools in Portland across elementary, middle, and high school levels, without having to sort through conflicting opinions or incomplete information.

Our rankings reflect a balanced, parent-focused approach ranked by our editorial team. We evaluated schools using a combination of public opinion, cost and accessibility, reviews, reputation within the community. We also considered how well schools support the full development of students, including creativity, confidence, independence, and preparation for the next stage of life.

This guide includes both public and private schools and is designed to help families understand not only where schools rank, but why they stand out. Every family and every child is different, so we encourage parents to explore multiple options, visit campuses, and consider fit alongside rankings. Our goal is to provide a trusted starting point as you navigate Portland’s exceptional and diverse educational landscape.

Each section is ranked independently and includes a mix of public and private schools. Together, these rankings offer a comprehensive view of Portland’s top educational options from early learning through high school completion. This guide was prepared by the Foundation List staff and reflects the collective perspectives, research, and evaluations of our editorial team. These rankings represent informed opinions, not guarantees of outcomes.

How This Guide Is Organized

To make this guide easy to navigate, we have grouped our rankings by school level so families can quickly find the information most relevant to their child’s current and future educational journey.

High Schools (Grades 9–12)
High school rankings are based on academic offerings, college and career preparation, student outcomes, extracurricular and arts programs, accessibility, and overall student experience. Special consideration was given to schools that successfully support students as they prepare for college, careers, and personal interests beyond graduation.

Middle Schools (Grades 6–8)
Middle school rankings emphasize academic growth, student support, program depth, and preparation for high school. We looked closely at how schools help students transition into more independent learning while continuing to provide structure, mentorship, and a strong sense of belonging.

Elementary Schools (K–5)
Our elementary school rankings focus on foundational academics, student engagement, teacher quality, community involvement, and early indicators of long-term success. These schools were evaluated for how well they support curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning during the most formative years.


High Schools (Grades 9–12) Portland, OR

Best Private High Schools

Winner: Best Portland Highschool of 2026 (Northwest Academy)

Northwest Academy Logo, Portland Oregon Best Portland School

#1 Northwest Academy

Address: 1130 SW Main St, Portland, OR 97205

Website: https://www.nwacademy.org

Northwest Academy is Portland’s #1 top-ranked high school for academic excellence combined with creative achievement and student satisfaction. Students genuinely love attending Northwest Academy and thrive in an environment led by some of the most respected and dedicated teachers in Portland. The school offers a modern, college-preparatory curriculum that includes nationally recognized arts programs, strong STEM instruction, advanced writing, and select AP courses that provide an academic head start in college. Classes are thoughtfully designed to be engaging and appropriately challenging while remaining supportive, relevant, and connected to real-world learning.

Northwest Academy serves a diverse student body with a wide range of interests, talents, and perspectives, supported by a strong culture of inclusion and belonging. The school is widely respected for producing highly successful graduates through exceptional college counseling, strong institutional connections, and individualized guidance as students prepare for their next educational step or pursue personal and creative interests beyond graduation. At every stage, students receive meaningful academic and personal support to ensure they are confident, capable, and well prepared to succeed. A close-knit faculty, along with a passionate community of alumni and parents, creates an environment where students develop independence, strong critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning within a supportive, centrally located Portland campus.

Financial Aid and Accessibility
Northwest Academy is deeply committed to making its education accessible to families from a wide range of financial backgrounds. The school offers meaningful financial aid assistance and actively raises funds each year through community-supported annual fundraisers to expand access and affordability. These efforts help ensure that talented, motivated students can attend regardless of financial circumstance. Compared to many private schools across the Portland metro area, Northwest Academy delivers exceptional value, offering a top-tier academic and arts education without the highest tuition costs. Families are strongly encouraged to explore both the admissions process and financial aid opportunities as part of their application.

#2 Oregon Episcopal School

Oregon Episcopal School
Private
Address: 6300 SW Nicol Rd, Portland, OR 97223
Phone: (503) 768-3115
Website: https://www.oes.edu
Description: College-preparatory academics paired with experiential learning, global studies, and strong student support.

#3 Catlin Gabel School

Catlin Gabel School
Private
Address: 8825 SW Barnes Rd, Portland, OR 97225
Phone: (503) 292-3423
Website: https://www.catlin.edu
Description: Highly rigorous independent school emphasizing inquiry-based learning, arts, athletics, and critical thinking.

#4 Central Catholic High School

Central Catholic High School
Private
Address: 2401 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 231-5090
Website: https://www.centralcatholichigh.org
Description: College-preparatory education with a focus on leadership, service learning, and academic accountability within a strong community culture.

#5 French American International Upper School

French American International Upper School
Private
Address: 850 NW Johnson St, Portland, OR 97209
Phone: (503) 292-7776
Website: https://www.faispdx.org
Description: Offers the IB Diploma Programme with bilingual instruction and a globally focused academic experience.

#6 Lincoln High School

Lincoln High School
Public
Address: 1600 SW Salmon St, Portland, OR 97205
Phone: (503) 916-5200
Website: https://lincoln.pps.net
Description: One of Portland’s highest-performing public high schools, offering strong AP coursework, athletics, arts, and consistent college placement outcomes.

#7 Grant High School

Grant High School
Public
Address: 2245 NE 36th Ave, Portland, OR 97212
Phone: (503) 916-5200
Website: https://grant.pps.net
Description: Known for advanced academics, strong performing arts programs, and high demand among Portland families.

#8 Jesuit High School

Jesuit High School
Private
Address: 9000 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225
Phone: (503) 291-5486
Website: https://www.jesuitportland.org
Description: Highly respected college-preparatory school rooted in Jesuit values, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, service, and character development.

#9 Cleveland High School

Cleveland High School
Public
Address: 3400 SE 26th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (503) 916-5400
Website: https://cleveland.pps.net
Description: Career pathways and college prep within a neighborhood-based, student-centered model.

#10 Roosevelt High School

Roosevelt High School
Public
Address: 6941 N Central St, Portland, OR 97203
Phone: (503) 916-5260
Website: https://roosevelt.pps.net
Description: Known for career technical education, leadership development, and strong community partnerships.

#11 St. Mary’s Academy

St. Mary’s Academy
Private
Address: 1615 SW Fifth Ave, Portland, OR 97201
Phone: (503) 223-8482
Website: https://www.smapdx.org
Description: All-girls college-preparatory school with a strong focus on leadership, academics, and service.

#12 Ida B. Wells High School

Ida B. Wells High School
Public
Address: 1151 SW Vermont St, Portland, OR 97219
Phone: (503) 916-5280
Website: https://idabwells.pps.net
Description: Strong academics, arts, and athletics serving Southwest Portland.

#13 La Salle Catholic College Preparatory

La Salle Catholic College Preparatory
Private
Address: 1313 SE Stark St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
Phone: (503) 659-4800
Website: https://www.lasalleprep.org
Description: College-focused academics with leadership development and service emphasis.

#14 Franklin High School

Franklin High School
Public
Address: 5405 SE Woodward St, Portland, OR 97206
Phone: (503) 916-5280
Website: https://franklin.pps.net
Description: Offers the IB Programme alongside diverse academic and career pathways.

#15 Benson Polytechnic High School

Benson Polytechnic High School
Public
Address: 546 NE 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
Phone: (503) 916-5100
Website: https://benson.pps.net
Description: Specialized technical and engineering-focused high school with hands-on learning.

#16 De La Salle North Catholic High School

De La Salle North Catholic High School
Private
Address: 7522 N Greely Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 285-9383
Website: https://www.dlsnc.org
Description: Combines college prep with a nationally recognized work-study model.

#17 Parkrose High School

Parkrose High School
Public
Address: 12003 NE Shaver St, Portland, OR 97220
Phone: (503) 408-2700
Website: https://www.parkrose.k12.or.us
Description: Career pathways and improving academic outcomes in Northeast Portland.

#18 Jefferson High School

Jefferson High School
Public
Address: 5210 N Kerby Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 916-5180
Website: https://jefferson.pps.net
Description: Community-centered high school with leadership development and academic growth.

#19 Madison High School

Madison High School
Public
Address: 2735 NE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97220
Phone: (503) 916-5200
Website: https://madison.pps.net
Description: Neighborhood-based learning with expanding academic and extracurricular offerings.

#20 McDaniel High School

McDaniel High School
Public
Address: 2735 NE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97220
Phone: (503) 916-5220
Website: https://mcdaniel.pps.net
Description: Diverse academic pathways with strong language and international programs.

#21 Cleveland STEM Partnership Programs

Cleveland High School STEM
Public
Address: 3400 SE 26th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (503) 916-5400
Website: https://cleveland.pps.net
Description: Specialized STEM-focused tracks supporting college and career readiness.

 


Best Middle Schools (Grades 6–8) Portland, OR

Private Middle Schools

Winner: Best Private Middle School in Portland, 2026 (Northwest Academy)

Northwest Academy Logo, Portland Oregon Best Portland School

#1 Northwest Academy
Address: 1130 SW Main St, Portland, OR 97205
Phone: (503) 223-6564
Website: https://www.nwacademy.org
Portland’s top-ranked middle school, Northwest Academy offers arts-integrated college preparation with highly individualized instruction led by exceptional teachers. Students thrive in engaging, modern classes that balance challenge with meaningful academic and personal support. The school is widely recognized for high student satisfaction and for preparing middle school learners with the confidence, skills, and curiosity needed for long-term academic success.

Financial Aid and Accessibility
Northwest Academy is committed to making its middle school program accessible to families from a wide range of financial backgrounds. The school offers meaningful financial aid and hosts annual community-supported fundraisers to help expand access and affordability for middle school students. These efforts are designed to ensure that motivated, curious learners can attend regardless of financial circumstance. Compared to many private middle school options across the Portland metro area, Northwest Academy provides exceptional value, offering a high-quality academic and arts education without the highest tuition costs. Families are encouraged to explore both the admissions process and available financial aid opportunities as part of their application.

#2 Cedarwood Waldorf School

Cedarwood Waldorf School
Private
Address: 3030 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97201
Phone: (503) 977-7679
Website: https://www.cedarwoodschool.org
Description: Praised for student happiness and engagement, Cedarwood offers developmentally aligned middle grades with strong academics, public speaking, collaboration, and experiential learning via a modern interpretation of the Waldorf education model.

#3 French American International Middle School

French American International School
Private
Address: 850 NW Johnson St, Portland, OR 97209
Phone: (503) 292-7776
Website: https://www.faispdx.org
Description: IB Middle Years Programme with bilingual instruction and a strong global academic focus.

#4 The International School Middle School

The International School
Private
Address: 025 SW Sherman St, Portland, OR 97201
Phone: (503) 226-2496
Website: https://intlschool.org
Description: Continued language immersion with global studies and multicultural learning.

#5 Hosford Middle School

Hosford Middle School
Public
Address: 2303 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 916-5600
Website: https://hosford.pps.net
Description: One of Portland’s strongest public middle schools with solid academics, arts, athletics, and high parent satisfaction.

#6 West Sylvan Middle School

West Sylvan Middle School
Public
Address: 8111 SW West Slope Dr, Portland, OR 97225
Phone: (503) 916-5650
Website: https://westsylvan.pps.net
Description: Known for advanced academics, strong STEM offerings, and consistent outcomes.

#7 Ockley Green Middle School

Ockley Green Middle School
Public
Address: 6031 N Montana Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 916-5400
Website: https://ockleygreen.pps.net
Description: Equity-centered school with arts integration and a supportive learning environment.

#8 Gray Middle School

Gray Middle School
Public
Address: 5505 SE 41st Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (503) 916-5600
Website: https://gray.pps.net
Description: Well-rounded academics, music programs, and strong neighborhood reputation.

#9 Mt. Tabor Middle School

Mt. Tabor Middle School
Public
Address: 5800 SE Ash St, Portland, OR 97215
Phone: (503) 916-5640
Website: https://mttabor.pps.net
Description: Balanced academics with arts, athletics, and strong community engagement.

#10 Sellwood Middle School

Sellwood Middle School
Public
Address: 3016 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (503) 916-5655
Website: https://sellwood.pps.net
Description: Consistently well-regarded neighborhood school with solid academic performance.

#11 Beaumont Middle School

Beaumont Middle School
Public
Address: 4043 NE Fremont St, Portland, OR 97213
Phone: (503) 916-5615
Website: https://beaumont.pps.net
Description: Strong academics and family engagement in Northeast Portland.

#12 Lane Middle School

Lane Middle School
Public
Address: 7205 SE 60th Ave, Portland, OR 97206
Phone: (503) 916-5675
Website: https://lane.pps.net
Description: Neighborhood-based learning with improving academic outcomes.

#13 Stoller Middle School

Stoller Middle School
Public
Address: 14151 NW Laidlaw Rd, Portland, OR 97229
Phone: (503) 844-1250
Website: https://www.hsd.k12.or.us/stoller
Description: Highly rated for academic consistency and STEM preparation.

#14 Tumwater Middle School

Tumwater Middle School
Public
Address: 3825 SW 114th Ave, Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: (503) 356-2810
Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/tumwater
Description: Strong Beaverton-area middle school with high family satisfaction.

#15 Cedar Park Middle School

Cedar Park Middle School
Public
Address: 19325 SW McCormick Hill Rd, Beaverton, OR 97007
Phone: (503) 356-2850
Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/cedarpark
Description: Known for student support and steady academic outcomes.

#16 Highland Park Middle School

Highland Park Middle School
Public
Address: 14100 SW Downing St, Beaverton, OR 97008
Phone: (503) 356-2820
Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/highlandpark
Description: Academically solid school with strong community ties.

#17 Happy Valley Middle School

Happy Valley Middle School
Public
Address: 13700 SE Sieben Park Way, Happy Valley, OR 97086
Phone: (503) 353-5900
Website: https://www.nclack.k12.or.us/happyvalley
Description: Well-regarded Clackamas-area middle school with growing academic reputation.

#18 Meridian Creek Middle School

Meridian Creek Middle School
Public
Address: 1801 NW Meridian Dr, Beaverton, OR 97006
Phone: (503) 356-2800
Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/meridiancreek
Description: Diverse academic offerings with strong student support.

#19 Gordon Russell Middle School

Gordon Russell Middle School
Public
Address: 1111 Main St, Oregon City, OR 97045
Phone: (503) 785-8600
Website: https://www.orecity.k12.or.us/grms
Description: Known for student-centered learning and academic growth.

#20 Rock Creek Middle School

Rock Creek Middle School
Public
Address: 1855 NE 15th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124
Phone: (503) 844-1350
Website: https://www.hsd.k12.or.us/rockcreek
Description: Strong academic programming and preparation for high school success.


Best K–5 Elementary Schools Portland, OR (Ranked)

Cedarwood Waldorf School Logo image says Cedarwood Waldorf School

#1 Cedarwood Waldorf School

Private | South Portland
Address: 3030 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97201
Phone: (503) 977-7679
Website: https://www.cedarwoodschool.org
Description: Cedarwood offers a modern interpretation of Waldorf education grounded in rigorous academics. The school delivers strong instruction in math, science, and English while emphasizing public speaking, performance, critical thinking, and experiential learning. Cedarwood is widely respected for cultivating a genuine love of learning and supporting the full development of each student through collaborative projects, hands-on exploration, and exceptional faculty engagement. Serving students from early childhood through the middle grades, Cedarwood is consistently regarded as one of Portland’s top elementary programs for academic preparation, student satisfaction, and parent confidence in long-term success.

#2 Ainsworth Elementary School

Public | Northwest Portland
Address: 7835 NW Kaiser Rd, Portland, OR 97229
Phone: (503) 916-6200
Website: https://ainsworth.pps.net
Description: One of Portland’s highest-performing public elementary schools, known for strong academics, consistent outcomes, and high family engagement.

#3 Alameda Elementary School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 2732 NE Fremont St, Portland, OR 97212
Phone: (503) 916-5480
Website: https://alameda.pps.net
Description: A top-tier neighborhood school with consistently strong academic performance and high demand among Portland families.

#4 Chapman Elementary School

Public | Northwest Portland
Address: 1445 NW 26th Ave, Portland, OR 97210
Phone: (503) 916-6276
Website: https://chapman.pps.net
Description: Academically strong school offering arts integration, a supportive parent community, and a long-standing reputation for excellence.

#5 Abernethy Elementary School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 2421 SE Orange Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 916-6240
Website: https://abernethy.pps.net
Description: Well-rounded academics combined with music, arts, and strong community involvement. Consistently regarded as a top SE Portland school.

#6 Bridger Creative Science School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 7910 SE Market St, Portland, OR 97215
Phone: (503) 916-6245
Website: https://bridger.pps.net
Description: Science-focused, project-based elementary school emphasizing inquiry, experimentation, and hands-on learning.

#7 Glencoe Elementary School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 825 NE 51st Ave, Portland, OR 97213
Phone: (503) 916-5200
Website: https://glencoe.pps.net
Description: Consistently strong neighborhood school with solid academics, enrichment programs, and active family participation.

#8 Irvington Elementary School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 1320 NE Brazee St, Portland, OR 97212
Phone: (503) 916-5610
Website: https://irvington.pps.net
Description: Known for strong literacy outcomes, music programs, and arts enrichment within a supportive learning environment.

#9 Buckman Elementary School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 320 SE 16th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 916-6206
Website: https://buckman.pps.net
Description: Highly engaged parent community paired with steady academic performance in inner SE Portland.

#10 Llewellyn Elementary School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 6300 SE 14th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (503) 916-5715
Website: https://llewellyn.pps.net
Description: High-performing neighborhood school recognized for academic consistency and strong community support.

#11 Bridlemile Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 4300 SW 47th Dr, Portland, OR 97221
Phone: (503) 916-6278
Website: https://bridlemile.pps.net
Description: One of Southwest Portland’s strongest public elementary schools with high achievement and active family engagement.

#12 Rieke Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 1405 SW Vermont St, Portland, OR 97219
Phone: (503) 916-6335
Website: https://rieke.pps.net
Description: Academically solid school offering a well-rounded experience and a strong sense of community.

#13 Hayhurst Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 5037 SW Iowa St, Portland, OR 97221
Phone: (503) 916-6330
Website: https://hayhurst.pps.net
Description: Supportive school culture with steady academic growth and strong neighborhood involvement.

#14 Capitol Hill Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 8401 SW 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97219
Phone: (503) 916-6332
Website: https://capitolhill.pps.net
Description: Inclusive neighborhood school offering balanced academics, enrichment, and family partnerships.

#15 Maplewood Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 7452 SW 52nd Ave, Portland, OR 97219
Phone: (503) 916-6338
Website: https://maplewood.pps.net
Description: Community-centered elementary school with steady academic performance and strong parent engagement.

#16 Markham Elementary School

Public | Southwest Portland
Address: 10531 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR 97219
Phone: (503) 916-6340
Website: https://markham.pps.net
Description: Supportive learning environment focused on student growth and inclusive education.

#17 Sabin School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 4013 NE 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97212
Phone: (503) 916-5640
Website: https://sabin.pps.net
Description: PK–8 school offering strong elementary academics and continuity through middle grades.

#18 Sunnyside Environmental School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 3421 SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 916-6150
Website: https://sunnyside.pps.net
Description: Environmental and experiential learning focus paired with solid elementary instruction.

#19 Boise-Eliot Elementary School

Public | North Portland
Address: 620 N Fremont St, Portland, OR 97227
Phone: (503) 916-6130
Website: https://boiseeliot.pps.net
Description: Equity-centered elementary school with growing academic outcomes and strong community ties.

#20 Lewis Elementary School

Public | North Portland
Address: 6700 N Missouri Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 916-6370
Website: https://lewis.pps.net
Description: Inclusive school offering steady academic progress and strong student support services.

#21 Rosa Parks Elementary School

Public | North Portland
Address: 8960 N Woolsey Ave, Portland, OR 97203
Phone: (503) 916-6380
Website: https://rosaparks.pps.net
Description: Literacy-focused elementary school with strong family partnerships and a supportive learning environment serving North Portland communities.

#22 Vernon School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 2044 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
Phone: (503) 916-6415
Website: https://vernon.pps.net
Description: PK–8 school offering continuity through the elementary years with a strong emphasis on community engagement and foundational academics.

#23 Chief Joseph Elementary School

Public | North Portland
Address: 2400 N Saratoga St, Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 916-6430
Website: https://chiefjoseph.pps.net
Description: Neighborhood elementary school emphasizing literacy development, student support, and family involvement.

#24 Faubion School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 2930 NE Dekum St, Portland, OR 97211
Phone: (503) 916-6375
Website: https://faubion.pps.net
Description: PK–8 school with wraparound services, strong elementary programming, and a focus on whole-child development.

#25 James John Elementary School

Public | North Portland
Address: 8315 N Lombard St, Portland, OR 97203
Phone: (503) 916-6385
Website: https://jamesjohn.pps.net
Description: Community-centered elementary school providing strong student supports and a stable neighborhood learning environment.

#26 Atkinson Elementary School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 5815 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97206
Phone: (503) 916-6410
Website: https://atkinson.pps.net
Description: Inclusive elementary school offering steady academic progress, bilingual supports, and strong family engagement.

#27 Arleta School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 5109 SE 66th Ave, Portland, OR 97206
Phone: (503) 916-6420
Website: https://arleta.pps.net
Description: K–8 school providing continuity and long-term relationships, with developing academic outcomes and strong community ties.

#28 Rigler Elementary School

Public | Northeast Portland
Address: 5401 NE Prescott St, Portland, OR 97218
Phone: (503) 916-5635
Website: https://rigler.pps.net
Description: Dual-language Spanish immersion elementary school supporting bilingual learning and inclusive education.

#29 Kelly Elementary School

Public | Southeast Portland
Address: 9030 SE Cooper St, Portland, OR 97266
Phone: (503) 916-6425
Website: https://kelly.pps.net
Description: Family-centered elementary school with improving academic growth and strong community partnerships.

#30 Astor School

Public | North Portland
Address: 5601 N Yale St, Portland, OR 97203
Phone: (503) 916-6378
Website: https://astor.pps.net
Description: Small K–8 school with a close-knit community model, supporting elementary learners through relationship-based instruction.


Final Thoughts for Parents

We hope this guide serves as a helpful starting point as you explore Portland’s outstanding public and private school options. Every student is unique, and the best school experience is one that aligns with a child’s academic needs, personal interests, learning style, and long-term goals. Rankings can provide useful perspective, but they are only one part of a much larger decision.

We encourage families to visit campuses, speak directly with school administrators and teachers, attend open houses, and involve students in the process whenever possible. The strongest outcomes occur when families take the time to understand both the culture and expectations of a school and how well it supports their student’s growth, confidence, and success.


Disclaimer and Methodology Notes

This guide was prepared by the Foundation List staff and reflects the collective perspectives, research, and evaluations of our editorial team. These rankings represent informed opinions, not guarantees of outcomes.

We strongly recommend that families consult multiple sources, including other ranking publications, school websites, independent reviews, and direct conversations with schools as part of their research process. No school should be selected or ruled out without careful evaluation of whether it is the right match for a specific student and family. Educational fit is highly personal, and what works well for one student may not be the best choice for another.