The Best Private Schools in Staten Island
The Best Private Schools in Staten Island
Traditional Values & Community Focus: Staten Island’s Distinct Private School Scene
Staten Island, often referred to as the “Greenest Borough,” offers a private school landscape distinct from its Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Bronx counterparts. Here, the emphasis is largely on **traditional values, strong community ties, and a more suburban, campus-like environment**. While not as numerous as in other boroughs, Staten Island’s private schools provide excellent academic rigor, often with a faith-based foundation, and a tight-knit community feel.
Families choose Staten Island’s private schools for their commitment to character development, smaller class sizes, and a sense of belonging in a more insular, family-oriented borough. From historic Catholic institutions to modern independent academies, these schools focus on holistic development, preparing students for college and beyond within a supportive and stable setting.
“Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.” – G.K. Chesterton
| Borough / Region | Primary Vibe & Focus |
|---|---|
| The 10 Best Private Schools in Manhattan | The “Old Guard” Ivy Pipeline |
| The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn | Progressive & “New School” Hubs |
| The 10 Best Private Schools in The Bronx | The “Country Day” Campuses |
| The Best Private Schools in Queens | Global Diversity & IB Curriculum |
| Guide to NYC Private School Tiers | Decoding the “Types” of Schools |
Strategic Tips for Staten Island Admissions
- Faith-Based Options are Dominant: Many of the top private schools on Staten Island are Catholic, offering a values-based education. If this aligns with your family’s beliefs, these schools provide excellent and often more affordable options.
- Community Focus: Expect a strong emphasis on community service, local engagement, and a generally more “neighborhood school” feel compared to the larger, more anonymous institutions in Manhattan.
- Transportation: While some schools may offer bus services, proximity is often a major factor for Staten Island families. Consider the commute from your home.
- Values Over “Brand Name”: Unlike other boroughs where “brand name” schools dominate, Staten Island parents often prioritize a school’s values, academic support, and community fit over national rankings.
The Staten Island X-Factor: A “Small Town” Feel in a Big City. Staten Island’s private schools often cultivate a close-knit, supportive environment where students and families feel truly connected. It’s a unique blend of urban accessibility with a sense of suburban community, ideal for those seeking a more personal educational journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Staten Island private schools less rigorous than those in Manhattan or Brooklyn?
Not necessarily. While they might have different educational philosophies, the top Staten Island private schools offer challenging curricula and prepare students well for competitive colleges. Their rigor often comes from a structured, traditional approach rather than a progressive one.
Are most private schools on Staten Island Catholic?
Yes, Catholic schools form a significant and highly respected part of Staten Island’s private education landscape. However, there are also non-sectarian and other faith-based options available.
What is the typical tuition for private schools on Staten Island?
Tuition can vary, but many of Staten Island’s faith-based private schools offer a more affordable option compared to Manhattan’s elite independent schools, often ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 annually. Independent schools might be slightly higher, but generally still less than the highest-tier NYC schools.
Ranking: The Best Private Schools in Staten Island
This list includes top-tier, highly-regarded private institutions on Staten Island.
1. Notre Dame Academy (Grymes Hill)
Highlight: An all-girls Catholic school (Pre-K to 12) with a strong academic reputation and values-based education.
Justification: Notre Dame Academy is one of Staten Island’s most prestigious schools. It’s known for its rigorous academics, commitment to empowering young women, and a supportive, faith-filled community that prepares students for top universities.
Address: 134 Howard Ave, Staten Island, NY 10301
Phone: (718) 447-8878
Website: notredameacademy.org
2. St. Joseph by the Sea High School (Arden Heights)
Highlight: A co-ed Catholic high school known for its strong academics, athletics, and community.
Justification: St. Joseph by the Sea offers a comprehensive high school experience with a wide range of academic programs, competitive sports teams, and a vibrant student life, all within a faith-based framework.
Address: 5150 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10312
Phone: (718) 984-6500
Website: stjosephbythesea.com
3. Xaverian High School (Bay Ridge, Brooklyn – strong SI feeder)
Highlight: An all-boys Catholic high school with a strong legacy, drawing many students from Staten Island.
Justification: While located in Brooklyn, Xaverian is a popular choice for Staten Island families seeking an all-boys, faith-based college-preparatory education known for its academic rigor and strong community.
Address: 7100 Shore Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Phone: (718) 836-7100
Website: xaverian.org
4. Monsignor Farrell High School (Oakwood)
Highlight: A prominent all-boys Catholic high school with a reputation for academic and athletic excellence.
Justification: Monsignor Farrell is a cornerstone of the Staten Island community, known for its challenging curriculum, competitive sports programs, and commitment to developing well-rounded young men of faith and character.
Address: 2900 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306
Phone: (718) 987-2900
Website: msgrfarrellhs.org
5. St. Peter’s Boys High School (New Brighton)
Highlight: Another historic all-boys Catholic high school with a strong legacy on Staten Island.
Justification: St. Peter’s Boys High School provides a rigorous, faith-based education focused on preparing students for college and instilling strong moral values. It has a long tradition of academic and athletic success.
Address: 200 Clinton Ave, Staten Island, NY 10301
Phone: (718) 447-1676
Website: stpeterboyshs.org
6. St. Adalbert School (Port Richmond)
Highlight: A highly-regarded Catholic elementary school (Pre-K to 8) known for its strong academics and community.
Justification: St. Adalbert School provides an excellent foundational education in a nurturing, faith-based environment. It’s a popular choice for families seeking a strong start for their children.
Address: 336 Morningstar Rd, Staten Island, NY 10303
Phone: (718) 442-2977
Website: stadalbertschool.org
7. Academy of St. Dorothy (Great Kills)
Highlight: A co-ed Catholic elementary school (Pre-K to 8) focusing on academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Justification: The Academy of St. Dorothy is known for its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and a supportive environment that fosters both intellectual and spiritual development in its students.
Address: 1305 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305
Phone: (718) 351-4200
Website: academyofstdorothy.org
8. St. Ann Catholic School (Dongan Hills)
Highlight: A well-established co-ed Catholic elementary school (Pre-K to 8) with strong community ties.
Justification: St. Ann Catholic School offers a nurturing, faith-filled environment combined with a solid academic program, emphasizing traditional values and preparing students for successful high school careers.
Address: 125 Cromwell Ave, Staten Island, NY 10305
Phone: (718) 351-4343
Website: stannschoolstatenisland.org
9. Our Lady Star of the Sea School (Huguenot)
Highlight: A highly-rated co-ed Catholic elementary school (Pre-K to 8) with a focus on academic excellence.
Justification: Our Lady Star of the Sea School is known for its strong academics, dedicated teachers, and a supportive environment that encourages students to achieve their full potential, both academically and spiritually.
Address: 5411 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10312
Phone: (718) 984-5720
Website: olss.org
10. Staten Island Academy (Todt Hill)
Highlight: The only independent, non-sectarian K-12 school on Staten Island, offering a broad curriculum.
Justification: Staten Island Academy provides a co-educational, college-preparatory experience with a wide range of academic, athletic, and artistic opportunities. It’s a strong alternative for families seeking an independent school model in the borough.
Address: 715 Todt Hill Rd, Staten Island, NY 10304
Phone: (718) 987-8100
Website: statenislandacademy.org
Check Out Our Other Education Guides
- The 10 Best Private Schools in Manhattan
- The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn
- Guide to NYC Private School Tiers
Keywords for your online search
best private schools staten island, catholic schools staten island, notre dame academy si, st joseph by the sea, monsignor farrell high school, st peter’s boys high school, staten island academy, private elementary schools staten island, private high schools staten island, faith-based schools staten island.
Back to: The 10 Best Private Schools in NYC
The 10 Best Private Schools in NYC
The 10 Best Universities in New York City
