Private schools in Portland offer a diverse array of educational opportunities, catering to families moving to Portland or relocating to Portland. With a variety of institutions ranging from faith-based schools to progressive academies, families can find the right fit for their child’s learning style and needs. These schools provide strong academic foundations, extracurricular activities, and community engagement, helping students grow both intellectually and personally.

19 Top Private Schools in Portland

For families new to the area, finding the right private school can be a crucial step in ensuring a smooth transition. Many of these institutions emphasize small class sizes, individualized attention, and innovative curricula to prepare students for college and beyond. This guide provides an overview of the top 19 private schools in the area, serving as a valuable resource for newcomers seeking quality education options.

1. Catlin Gabel School

Catlin Gabel School is a nationally recognized progressive private day school in Portland, Oregon, offering an exceptional education for preschool through 12th grade. The school nurtures each student’s curiosity and individuality in an inclusive community that values creativity, character, and a lifelong love of learning. Students are empowered to think critically, explore boldly, and contribute meaningfully to the world.

2. Oregon Episcopal School

Oregon Episcopal School (OES) is a college preparatory, independent school in Portland, serving nearly 880 students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, including approximately 60 boarding students from around the world in Grades 9-12. OES emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual development, and community engagement, preparing students for higher education and global citizenship.

3. St. Mary’s Academy

St. Mary’s Academy is a premier all-girls Catholic high school in Portland, dedicated to the development of young women through rigorous academics, leadership opportunities, and service programs. The school fosters a supportive environment that encourages students to excel academically and grow personally.

4. Jesuit High School

Jesuit High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory school in Portland committed to forming men and women for others. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, a robust athletics program, and numerous extracurricular activities, all rooted in Jesuit values.

5. Trinity Academy of Portland

Trinity Academy of Portland is a private Christian school serving students in grades 6-12. The academy emphasizes a classical education approach, integrating faith and learning to cultivate wisdom and virtue in students. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Trinity Academy provides a nurturing environment for academic and personal growth.

6. Valley Catholic School

Valley Catholic School in Beaverton offers a faith-based education from preschool through 12th grade. The school is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts and athletics.

7. St. Stephen’s Academy

St. Stephen’s Academy in Beaverton provides a classical Christian education to students from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. The school focuses on developing critical thinking, virtuous character, and a love for learning, preparing students for college and beyond.

8. Portland Waldorf School

Portland Waldorf School in Milwaukie offers a holistic education based on the Waldorf philosophy, serving students from preschool through 12th grade. The school emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

9. Westside Christian High School

Westside Christian High School in Tigard provides a Christ-centered education for students in grades 9-12. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum, competitive athletics, and a variety of extracurricular activities, all within a supportive community.

10. La Salle Catholic College Preparatory

La Salle Catholic College Preparatory in Milwaukie is a co-educational high school committed to providing a transformative education rooted in Catholic values. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, including Advanced Placement courses, and emphasizes service, leadership, and community involvement.

11. Columbia Christian School

Columbia Christian School in Portland offers a Christ-centered education from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. The school focuses on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and character development, preparing students for success in college and life.

12. Portland Adventist Academy

Portland Adventist Academy is a private high school providing a faith-based education in a supportive environment. The school offers a rigorous academic program, including Advanced Placement courses, and encourages students to develop their talents through various extracurricular activities.

13. Northwest Academy

Northwest Academy in Portland is an independent college preparatory school for students in grades 6-12. The school offers a challenging academic curriculum complemented by robust arts programs, fostering creativity and critical thinking.

14. Central Catholic High School

Central Catholic High School in Portland is a co-educational college preparatory school rooted in Catholic values. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, including Advanced Placement courses, and emphasizes service, leadership, and community engagement.

15. Blanchet Catholic School

Blanchet Catholic School in Salem provides a faith-based education for students in grades 6-12. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum, a variety of extracurricular activities, and a supportive community that fosters personal and spiritual growth.

16. Cascades Academy

Cascades Academy in Bend is an independent, college preparatory day school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. The school emphasizes experiential learning, small class sizes, and a strong sense of community, preparing students for success in college and beyond.

17. Portland Christian Jr/Sr High School

Portland Christian Jr/Sr High School offers a Christ-centered education for students in grades 7-12. The school provides a comprehensive academic program, including Advanced Placement courses, and encourages students to develop their talents through athletics, arts, and service opportunities.

18. Delphian School

Delphian School in Sheridan is a private boarding and day school offering a unique proficiency-based curriculum for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and personal responsibility, preparing students for success in higher education and life.

19. Oak Hill School

Oak Hill School in Eugene is an independent, non-profit school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school offers a challenging academic curriculum, small class sizes, and a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity and creativity.

Conclusion

For families moving to Portland or relocating to Portland, selecting the right private school is a crucial decision. With diverse educational philosophies, rigorous academics, and strong community values, the private schools in Portland provide high-quality education options to meet the needs of every student. Whether looking for a faith-based institution, a progressive learning environment, or a college-preparatory program, newcomers will find an excellent selection of schools to choose from. By exploring these top-rated schools, families can ensure their children receive the best education possible in their new city.

 

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