The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn
The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn
From Progressive Hubs to Historic Institutions, Brooklyn’s Diverse Educational Landscape
Brooklyn, a borough celebrated for its diversity and innovation, offers a private school landscape that mirrors its vibrant character. Unlike Manhattan’s long-established “Ivy Prep” monoliths, Brooklyn’s independent schools often lean towards **progressive educational philosophies**, strong **community engagement**, and a more **inclusive atmosphere**. However, don’t mistake “progressive” for less rigorous; these schools are highly competitive and send graduates to the nation’s top universities.
Parents choose Brooklyn private schools for their unique blend of academic excellence, a focus on social-emotional learning, and a sense of belonging in a deeply connected community. From historic Quaker institutions to cutting-edge international programs, Brooklyn’s schools are shaping the next generation of New Yorkers with a distinct borough identity.
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey
| Borough / Region | Primary Vibe & Focus |
|---|---|
| The 10 Best Private Schools in Manhattan | The “Old Guard” Ivy Pipeline |
| The 10 Best Private Schools in The Bronx | The “Country Day” Campuses |
| The Best Private Schools in Queens | Global Diversity & IB Curriculum |
| The Best Private Schools in Staten Island | Traditional, Campus-Based Schools |
| Guide to NYC Private School Tiers | Decoding the “Types” of Schools |
Strategic Tips for Brooklyn Admissions
- Progressive vs. Traditional: Brooklyn is a hub for **progressive education**. Schools like Brooklyn Friends, Packer, and Saint Ann’s emphasize student-centered learning, creativity, and interdisciplinary approaches. If you’re seeking a more traditional, structured environment, you’ll find fewer options compared to Manhattan.
- Community & Diversity: Brooklyn schools often pride themselves on their diverse student bodies and strong sense of community. Expect a focus on social-emotional learning and an emphasis on inclusive environments.
- The “Cool Factor”: Many Brooklyn schools have a distinct cultural cachet, attracting families from the arts, tech, and creative industries. This can translate to innovative programs and a vibrant, less formal atmosphere.
- Early Application is Key: Like all top NYC private schools, competition for spots is intense, especially for kindergarten. Start your research and application process early.
The Brooklyn X-Factor: Authentic Urban Experience. Brooklyn private schools offer a genuine urban experience, integrated into their vibrant neighborhoods. Students often walk to school, engage with local businesses, and see the city as an extension of their classroom, fostering a strong sense of place and community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Brooklyn private schools as good as Manhattan’s?
Absolutely. Academically, schools like Packer Collegiate and Saint Ann’s are on par with Manhattan’s elite, sending graduates to the same top-tier universities. The difference lies primarily in educational philosophy and campus culture, not quality.
Are Brooklyn private schools generally more “progressive”?
Yes, on average. While you can find traditional schools, the dominant philosophical trend in Brooklyn’s independent school scene leans towards progressive, child-centered, and project-based learning. This is a key differentiator from many Manhattan institutions.
What’s the typical tuition range for Brooklyn private schools?
Tuition for top-tier Brooklyn independent schools generally ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 per year for elementary and secondary grades, similar to the mid-tier and some upper-tier schools in Manhattan. Financial aid is available at many institutions.
Ranking: The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn
This list highlights Brooklyn’s leading independent and selective private institutions.
1. Packer Collegiate Institute (Brooklyn Heights)
Highlight: A historic, co-ed K-12 institution known for academic excellence and a progressive yet structured approach.
Justification: Packer Collegiate is often considered Brooklyn’s most prestigious private school. It combines a rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on social justice, community, and the arts, all within a stunning historic campus.
Address: 170 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (718) 250-0200
Website: packer.edu
2. Saint Ann’s School (Brooklyn Heights)
Highlight: A highly selective K-12 school renowned for its radical progressive philosophy and arts focus.
Justification: Saint Ann’s has no grades, no tests, and no required curriculum. It’s built on a philosophy of intellectual freedom and artistic expression, attracting fiercely independent and creative students who thrive in its unique, rigorous environment.
Address: 129 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (718) 522-1660
Website: saintanns.org
3. Brooklyn Friends School (Downtown Brooklyn)
Highlight: A historic Quaker school (Pre-K to 12) offering the full IB Diploma Programme.
Justification: Brooklyn Friends blends Quaker values of peace, community, and service with a rigorous academic program, including the globally recognized International Baccalaureate. It’s known for its inclusive environment and strong sense of purpose.
Address: 375 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (718) 852-1029
Website: brooklynfriends.org
4. Berkeley Carroll School (Park Slope)
Highlight: A highly respected K-12 independent school with a strong academic program and community focus.
Justification: Berkeley Carroll offers a balanced education that challenges students while fostering their individual growth. It’s a favorite among Park Slope families for its strong academics, arts, and athletics.
Address: 181 Lincoln Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Phone: (718) 789-6060
Website: berkeleycarroll.org
5. Poly Prep Country Day School (Bay Ridge)
Highlight: A sprawling 25-acre “country day” campus in Brooklyn, offering a comprehensive K-12 education.
Justification: Poly Prep provides a unique suburban-style campus experience within NYC. It’s known for its strong athletics, robust academics, and a sense of tradition often associated with boarding schools.
Address: 9216 Seventh Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11228
Phone: (718) 836-9800
Website: polyprep.org
6. German School Brooklyn (Prospect Heights)
Highlight: A newer, co-ed German/English bilingual STEM-focused IB World School.
Justification: GSB brings a modern, STEM-focused German bilingual education to Brooklyn. As an IB school, it’s quickly becoming a top choice for international and tech-focused families in the borough.
Address: 570 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Phone: (347) 897-8255
Website: germanschoolbrooklyn.org
7. Friends Seminary (Manhattan – but a strong Brooklyn feeder)
Highlight: Historic Quaker school with a strong Brooklyn presence, progressive values, and academic rigor.
Justification: Although technically in Manhattan, Friends Seminary draws heavily from Brooklyn due to its progressive Quaker philosophy aligning with many Brooklyn families’ values. It’s known for its intellectualism, social justice focus, and tight-knit community.
Address: 222 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003
Phone: (212) 979-5030
Website: friendsseminary.org
8. Marymount School of New York (Manhattan – strong Brooklyn appeal)
Highlight: All-girls Catholic school with strong academics and an innovative approach, popular with Brooklyn families.
Justification: While on the Upper East Side, Marymount‘s blend of strong academics, a supportive all-girls environment, and a commitment to modern teaching methods makes it highly attractive to Brooklyn families seeking a faith-based option.
Address: 1026 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone: (212) 744-4486
Website: marymountnyc.org
9. Avenues: The World School (Chelsea – strong Brooklyn feeder)
Highlight: The “Global Elite” school with top-tier Mandarin and Spanish immersion tracks, drawing from Brooklyn.
Justification: Avenues, though in Chelsea, has excellent transportation from Brooklyn. Its cutting-edge facilities, global network, and strong language immersion programs appeal greatly to ambitious Brooklyn families.
Address: 259 10th Avenue, New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 524-9000
Website: avenues.org/ny
10. The Calhoun School (UWS – strong Brooklyn appeal)
Highlight: A leading progressive, co-ed K-12 school with a strong arts and social justice focus, attracting Brooklyn families.
Justification: Calhoun, on the Upper West Side, offers an innovative, progressive curriculum that resonates with many Brooklyn parents. Its emphasis on inquiry-based learning and social responsibility makes it a popular choice.
Address: 433 West End Ave, New York, NY 10024
Phone: (212) 875-6300
Website: calhoun.org
Check Out Our Other Education Guides
- The 10 Best Private Schools in Manhattan
- The 10 Best Private Schools in The Bronx
- Guide to NYC Private School Tiers
Keywords for your online search
best private schools in brooklyn, packer collegiate institute, saint ann’s school, brooklyn friends school, berkeley carroll school, poly prep country day school, german school brooklyn, progressive private schools nyc, independent schools brooklyn, private school admissions brooklyn.
Back to: The 10 Best Private Schools in NYC
The 10 Best Private Schools in NYC
The 10 Best Universities in New York City
