Best Private High Schools

By Ian Aldrich, Amanda Boyd, Brent Donaldson, Aiesha D. Little, Katherine L. Sontag, and Linda Vaccariello

Rankings by I. Elaine Allen and Clare Baker

The 36 schools featured in these pages have many things in common: spirit, academics, clubs, and plenty of homework. That hardly means they’re the same. Some are so small that a graduating class consists of one student. Some have alumni networks that measure in the thousands. Some have innovative programs to support at-risk and special-needs kids. And some have built strong communities of faith. Each one has a distinct personality. Which private high school is the best for your child? Only you can make that call, but our ranking chart and these profiles will give you a place to start.

Small Wonders: Specialized Schools 

Higher Power: Christian Schools

Prep Work: Traditional Prep Schools

A League of Their Own: Girls' Schools

No Girls Allowed: Boys' Schools

School Colors: Co-ed Catholic Schools

The Rankings: Best Private High Schools (Download a PDF file)

Originally published in the August 2007 issue.