Menu

The 14 Best Private Middle Schools in San Francisco

For families seeking a top-tier education for their middle school-aged children in San Francisco, the city offers a wide array of private middle schools known for their rigorous academics, supportive communities, and diverse extracurricular offerings. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, these institutions provide a personalized learning experience that can help students thrive both academically and personally.

Whether you are looking for a school with a strong emphasis on STEM fields, a focus on arts and humanities, or a nurturing environment for your child, there are numerous options to choose from in San Francisco's private middle school landscape. By exploring the following list of schools and their unique offerings, you can find the perfect fit for your family's educational needs and aspirations.

Discover the best options for your child by exploring the following list of The Best Private Middle Schools in San Francisco:

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of private Middle schools in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 14 local options side by side

San Francisco High School of the Arts#1
What it does well
  • This is the place with the most and the largest dance classroom in San Francisco, making it an incredible and awesome experience for students.

  • The school focuses on cultivating children's moral education and enhancing their sense of responsibility through its programs.

  • The teachers are highly praised for their quality and elegant temperament, creating a great study atmosphere for all students.

  • Visitors have commended the school for its uplifting and clean energy, making it a welcoming and friendly place for learning.

San Francisco High School of the Arts

5.017 reviews
1950 Page St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

San Francisco High School of the Arts is a renowned educational institution that offers a wide range of programs for high school students. The school provides a strong emphasis on dance training, including ballet and Chinese classical dance. The facility boasts spacious dance classrooms, allowing students to hone their skills in a comfortable and inspiring environment.

If you are looking for a school that values tradition, excellence, and a positive learning environment, San Francisco High School of the Arts is the ideal choice for aspiring young artists.

San Francisco Day School#2
What it does well
  • The curriculum is well thought out and intentional, emphasizing both academic excellence and social-emotional development.

  • The art program is phenomenal, exposing students to local and international artists, with some artists even visiting the school to teach.

  • The community at San Francisco Day School is diverse and inclusive, fostering lasting friendships and a sense of belonging among students and families alike.

San Francisco Day School

5.07 reviews
350 Masonic Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

San Francisco Day School is a top-tier middle school that excels in creating lifelong learners and critical thinkers. The school boasts a talented and committed faculty who continuously improve their teaching skills through professional development. Students benefit from an impressive student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support.

Customer reviews rave about the school's exceptional community, curriculum, facilities, and faculty. Parents express delight in seeing their children thrive at the school, highlighting its positive impact on their academic and personal growth. Overall, San Francisco Day School stands out as a premier educational institution that prioritizes holistic student development.

San Francisco Pacific Academy#3
What it does well
  • The excellent management at the academy has been highly praised by parents, especially for their dedication to safety and well-being during challenging times.

  • The after-school activities offered add immense value to students' education and growth.

  • The strong math and science curriculum combined with great teachers creates a nurturing and progressive environment.

San Francisco Pacific Academy

4.712 reviews
3301 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

San Francisco Pacific Academy is a renowned Private educational institution in San Francisco, CA, offering exceptional services to students. The academy prides itself on the small class size that allows for personalized attention, fostering a unique learning experience for each child.

Customer reviews highlight the academy's dedication to providing a strong academic curriculum in a nurturing environment, with great after-school classes and individual attention. Parents appreciate the academy's commitment to creating an exceptional learning environment where education, safety, and community come together seamlessly.

Fusion Academy San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Teachers are accommodating, kind, educated, and enthusiastic.

  • Students have the opportunity to tailor their coursework towards their career interests.

  • Communication with professionals in every subject is personal and daily.

Fusion Academy San Francisco

5.06 reviews
1160 Battery St #40, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Fusion Academy San Francisco is a renowned private educational institution that offers a personalized approach to learning. With a 5.0 rating from satisfied customers, it's clear that this institution excels in providing top-notch education and support.

Whether students need academic support, flexibility in their schedule, or a positive change in their school experience, Fusion Academy San Francisco is dedicated to providing an enriching and supportive environment for all learners.

Synergy School, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • One Word AMAZING: A parent mentioned that their child loved the school from day one.

  • I teach at the school. I love it!: An educator expressed their love for the school.

  • Amazing school: A short and sweet review highlighting the excellence of the school.

Synergy School

5.05 reviews
1387 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Synergy School is a top-rated middle school located in San Francisco. This school provides a nurturing and innovative educational environment for students to thrive. The school offers a variety of programs and extracurricular activities to enhance the learning experience of every student.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

The Synergy School has received a stellar rating of 5.0 stars based on customer feedback. This speaks volumes about the quality of education and care provided to students. Visit their website for more information on enrollment and programs offered.

Kittredge School, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Great school and great teachers, even when I went there in the early 80's.

  • We should have supported our Kittredge School friends more. One of them was picking up golf balls at the park. We should have picked up more golf balls in the 1980s.

  • Customers have been impressed by the exceptional teaching and support provided at Kittredge School.

Kittredge School

5.05 reviews
2355 Lake St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Kittredge School is a highly acclaimed Educational institution located in San Francisco, CA. With a perfect rating of 5.0 stars, it's no wonder that customers have raved about their experiences.

Their hours are convenient, ensuring that they are accessible to all. For more information on their services, visit their website or give them a call at +1 415-750-8390.

Presidio Knolls School, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Fantastic school that promotes curiosity, exploration, and academic excellence.

  • Very welcoming, involved, and collaborative community.

  • Loving teachers who help students come out of their shells and excel academically.

Presidio Knolls School

4.416 reviews
250 10th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Presidio Knolls School is a top-notch bilingual school located in San Francisco, CA. The school offers a stimulating environment that promotes curiosity, exploration, and academic excellence. With a rating of 4.4 based on 16 reviews, it's clear that families are thrilled with the education their children receive at Presidio Knolls School.

The school is highly praised for its dedicated teachers, interactive curriculum, and supportive community. Parents appreciate the positive impact the school has on their children and rave about the loving environment that facilitates their child's development. If you're looking for a school that values holistic education and fosters a love for learning, Presidio Knolls School is the place to be.

Children's Day School - Middle School, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Good

  • Top-notch education

  • Excellent facilities

  • Highly recommended

Children's Day School - Middle School

4.45 reviews
601 Dolores St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Children's Day School - Middle School is a highly regarded educational institution located in San Francisco offering a variety of services and features for middle school students. With a rating of 4.4, the school has received excellent reviews from satisfied customers.

Parents and students alike appreciate the 24-hour accessibility of the school on weekdays, ensuring flexibility and convenience for busy schedules. The wheelchair-accessible car park and entrances also make it a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Visit their website or give them a call at +1 415-861-5432 to learn more about what Children's Day School - Middle School has to offer.

Live Oak School, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • Warm environment with caring teachers

  • Truly individualized experience for each student

  • Challenging curriculum

Live Oak School

4.36 reviews
1555 Mariposa St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Live Oak School is a reputable middle school located in San Francisco, CA. The school offers a warm environment with caring teachers who provide a truly individualized experience for each student to help them grow and be challenged.

With a rating of 4.3, Live Oak School is highly regarded by its students and parents. The school is known for its accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance. Visit their website for more information on enrollment and programs.

School of the Epiphany, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • Enriching academic environment with personalized learning

  • Strong sense of community and inclusivity

  • Building lasting relationships with teachers and peers

  • Preparation for high school and beyond

School of the Epiphany

4.211 reviews
600 Italy Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112, United States

School of the Epiphany is a reputable middle school located in San Francisco.

The school is known for its high level of academics and talented teachers who are dedicated to challenging and supporting each student. They prioritize individualized learning, fostering growth, and building confidence in their students.

Noteworthy features of this school include Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance to ensure accessibility for all students. Visit their website for more information on enrollment and programs offered.

De Marillac Academy, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • An amazing school doing great work!

  • Awesome school!

  • Great school.

  • Amazing

De Marillac Academy

4.18 reviews
175 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

De Marillac Academy is a renowned Catholic school located in San Francisco, CA. The academy offers a variety of educational services and features that have attracted many positive customer reviews.

These reviews highlight the exceptional quality of education provided by De Marillac Academy. Customers praise the school for its dedication to academic excellence and community engagement. With a 4.1 rating and a track record of satisfied students and families, this academy is a top choice for those seeking a holistic and enriching educational experience.

MLocal choice
#12
What it does well
  • One reviewer mentioned that the school has experienced a decline in quality due to staffing changes.

  • Another reviewer shared a spiritual experience while attending the academy in the late 1960s.

  • Some reviewers suggest exploring other Catholic schools in the area.

  • Others simply described the school as "awesome" and "beautiful."

Mission Dolores Academy

4.116 reviews
3371 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Mission Dolores Academy is a renowned Middle school located in San Francisco. The academy offers a range of educational services that cater to the holistic development of students. The school prides itself on maintaining a supportive and nurturing environment for all learners.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

With a Rating of 4.1, Mission Dolores Academy continues to impact students positively, providing a solid foundation for their academic and personal growth. The school's commitment to excellence is reflected in the reviews of satisfied parents and students. Visit their website for more information on admissions and programs.

Adda Clevenger School, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Former students express great fondness for their time at Adda Clevenger, highlighting the school's focus on creativity, compassion, and personal growth.

  • Parents commend the school for its holistic approach to education, emphasizing the development of all aspects of a child.

  • The school is highly recommended for families seeking a supportive and enriching academic environment for their children.

Adda Clevenger School

4.08 reviews
180 Fair Oaks St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Adda Clevenger School is a renowned middle school located in San Francisco, CA, that has garnered a solid 4.0 rating from 8 reviews. Customers have praised the school for its exceptional quality of education and nurturing environment. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development, Adda Clevenger School stands out as a top choice for families in search of a high-quality middle school education.

Sterne School, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • My child has thrived at Sterne, feeling included socially and making academic progress at a comfortable pace - a true Godsend for us.

  • The potential and opportunities at Sterne are exciting for students and their families.

  • Sterne School provides a welcoming environment where students feel like they belong and can explore diverse ways of learning.

  • The school has transformed students' lives, bolstering their confidence and preparing them for a successful future.

Sterne School

4.013 reviews
838 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Sterne School is a renowned educational institution in San Francisco that caters to students with different learning needs. The school offers a wide range of academic programs and services, including a new gym, music room, film studio, and theatre that enhance the overall learning experience. The teachers are known for being caring, attentive, and supportive, while the administration is hailed for its excellence.

The positive reviews from the school's patrons highlight a few key points:

These glowing testimonials underscore the school's commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all students.

A quick comparison of the options

Running a local business?

Add or claim my business

Map of Private Middle Schools in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to a plethora of private middle schools offering unique educational experiences for students. From specialized curriculums to smaller class sizes, these schools provide students with a well-rounded education in a supportive environment. Use the map below to explore the various private middle schools in San Francisco and find the best fit for your child's needs.

How to pick Private Middle Schools in San Francisco

  1. Strong academic curriculum.
  2. Robust extracurricular activities.
  3. Small class sizes.
  4. Supportive community.
  5. Experienced faculty.

Common questions

Admission requirements for private middle schools

Each private middle school in San Francisco has its own unique admission requirements. Typically, these schools will request academic transcripts, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and a personal statement from the student. Some schools may also require an entrance exam or interview. Additionally, many private middle schools in the area place a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, community service, and character references when considering applications. It's important to thoroughly research the requirements for each school before applying. Keep in mind that competition for admission to private middle schools in San Francisco can be fierce, so it's essential to showcase your strengths and unique qualities in your application.

Cost of tuition at private middle schools

The cost of tuition at private middle schools in San Francisco can vary significantly depending on the school. On average, tuition for a private middle school in the area can range from $20,000 to $35,000 per year. Many private middle schools offer financial aid or scholarships to assist families who may not be able to afford the full tuition cost. It's important to inquire about the availability of financial aid options and application deadlines when exploring different private schools in San Francisco. Keep in mind that in addition to tuition, there may also be additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, and field trips. It's important to factor in these expenses when budgeting for your child's education.

Academic programs offered at private middle schools

Private middle schools in San Francisco often offer a diverse range of academic programs to meet the needs of their students. These programs may include advanced placement courses, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, language immersion programs, and arts education. Additionally, many private middle schools in the area prioritize small class sizes, individualized attention, and personalized learning experiences for students. This can help students excel academically, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for high school and beyond. It's important to research the academic programs offered at each private middle school in San Francisco to ensure they align with your child's learning style, interests, and academic goals.

Extracurricular activities and programs at private middle schools

Private middle schools in San Francisco often provide a wide range of extracurricular activities and programs to complement their academic curriculum. These activities may include sports teams, clubs, community service opportunities, music and arts programs, and leadership development initiatives. Participating in extracurricular activities can help students develop social skills, teamwork abilities, leadership qualities, and time management skills. These experiences can also enrich students' overall educational experience and contribute to their personal growth and development. When researching private middle schools in the area, be sure to inquire about the extracurricular opportunities available and consider how they align with your child's interests and passions.

Similar guides