Best private high schools in Alaska
As filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron said during a 1996 commencement address at Wellesley College, “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” If that’s the case, high school may be one of the greatest dress rehearsals of all.
It’s a place where students explore their interests, dive into extracurricular activities, finally get the freedom to choose their own classes, and prepare for college or the workplace. For many of these students and their families, education is key: 1.4 million students enrolled in private high schools in fall 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. There were about 3,600 private secondary schools nationwide as of 2020.
For many anxious parents, getting their kids into the best of these private high schools is of the utmost importance. Some families even move homes to send their kids to better schools. However, among all of these thousands of schools, a few stand out for their academic excellence, incredible track records, and the future success of their young students.
Stacker compiled a list of the best private high schools in Alaska using 2024 rankings from Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students.
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#8. Anchorage Christian Schools
– Location: Anchorage, AK
– Enrollment: 461 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B-
About
Anchorage Christian Schools provide a Christ-centered education that combines academic excellence with spiritual growth. Rooted in Biblical principles, the school’s mission is to prepare students to live with faith, integrity, and purpose. This foundation shapes graduates for success in college, careers, and service.
The academic program offers a full college-preparatory curriculum, including honors and Advanced Placement options. Teachers challenge students to think critically, solve problems, and apply Christian values in their studies. Learners leave equipped with both knowledge and strong character.
Student life is vibrant with opportunities in athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular activities. From championship-level sports to music and service projects, learners develop teamwork, leadership, and creativity. These experiences foster school pride and strengthen community ties.
Parents and local churches play an active role in supporting Anchorage Christian’s mission. Their encouragement, mentorship, and resources expand opportunities for students both in and out of the classroom. With this partnership, the school continues to thrive as a faith-driven community of learning.
Where is Anchorage Christian Schools?
Anchorage Christian Schools is a private, faith-based institution located in Anchorage, Alaska. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, it provides a Christ-centered education that combines academics, athletics, and spiritual development.
Its setting in Alaska’s largest city gives students the benefits of a close school community while connecting them to the cultural and natural opportunities of the region.
#7. Birchwood Christian School
– Location: Chugiak, AK
– Enrollment: 292 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B+
About
Student life at Birchwood Christian School is shaped by a close-knit community where faith and fellowship guide daily experiences. Learners participate in athletics, fine arts, and service opportunities that encourage leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. These activities provide balance to academic studies while strengthening spiritual values.
The academic program blends rigorous instruction in core subjects with a Christ-centered perspective. Teachers encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of Biblical principles in everyday life. This approach equips students with both academic readiness and a strong moral foundation.
Tradition plays an important role in the culture of Birchwood Christian. Respect, responsibility, and devotion are values passed down through each new class of students. This heritage helps sustain a strong sense of identity and pride in the school community.
Family and church partnerships are central to the school’s mission. Their support provides mentorship, resources, and encouragement that enrich every aspect of student life. With this collaboration, Birchwood Christian School continues to thrive as a community rooted in faith and learning.
Where is Birchwood Christian School?
Birchwood Christian School is a private Christian school located in Chugiak, Alaska. Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, it offers a Christ-centered education that emphasizes academic achievement, faith formation, and character development.
Its small-community setting provides students with a supportive environment while surrounded by the natural beauty of south-central Alaska.
#6. Grace Christian School
– Location: Anchorage, AK
– Enrollment: 529 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B+
About
Grace Christian School has built its mission on integrating faith with academic excellence. Rooted in Biblical principles, the school emphasizes the development of both mind and spirit. This foundation prepares students to serve with integrity while pursuing success in college and beyond.
The academic program includes a full college-preparatory curriculum with honors and Advanced Placement opportunities. Teachers guide learners through rigorous coursework while encouraging them to apply Christian values in their studies. Graduates leave equipped with critical thinking skills and a strong spiritual compass.
Life at Grace Christian extends beyond the classroom with athletics, music, drama, and service activities. These programs allow students to develop leadership, creativity, and teamwork while building lasting friendships. School pride is strengthened through participation in both competition and collaboration.
Families and churches play a vital role in sustaining the school’s mission. Their mentorship, encouragement, and resources expand opportunities for students across academics and extracurriculars. With this support, Grace Christian School continues to thrive as a Christ-centered community of learning.
Where is Grace Christian School?
Grace Christian School is a private, faith-based institution located in Anchorage, Alaska. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, it provides a Christ-centered education that blends rigorous academics with spiritual growth, athletics, and the arts.
Its setting in Alaska’s largest city allows students to learn in a close-knit school community while also engaging with the wider cultural and natural opportunities of the region.
#5. Cook Inlet Academy
– Location: Soldotna, AK
– Enrollment: 101 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B+
About
Student life at Cook Inlet Academy is grounded in community, fellowship, and faith. Learners take part in athletics, music, service projects, and extracurricular activities that foster leadership, teamwork, and creativity. These experiences help students grow socially and spiritually while building school pride.
The academic program provides a college-preparatory curriculum integrated with Biblical instruction. Core subjects are taught alongside faith-based studies, giving learners a strong foundation in both knowledge and values. Teachers guide students to think critically, communicate effectively, and live responsibly.
Tradition is an important part of the academy’s culture. Values of integrity, perseverance, and service are carried forward by each new generation of students. This heritage strengthens the identity of the school and inspires future classes to continue the mission.
Family and church partnerships play a central role in the life of Cook Inlet Academy. Their mentorship, resources, and encouragement enrich academic programs and spiritual growth. With this collaboration, the academy continues to thrive as a Christ-centered community of learning.
Where is Cook Inlet Academy?
Cook Inlet Academy is a private Christian school located in Soldotna, Alaska. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, it offers a Christ-centered education that integrates academics, spiritual development, and character training.
Its Kenai Peninsula setting provides a small-community atmosphere where students benefit from close relationships and the surrounding natural beauty of south-central Alaska.
#4. Lumen Christi Catholic High School
– Location: Anchorage, AK
– Enrollment: 132 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
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About
Lumen Christi Catholic High School provides a faith-based education rooted in Catholic tradition. Its mission emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. This focus prepares students to succeed in higher education while living out values of integrity and compassion.
The academic program includes a full college-preparatory curriculum supported by honors and Advanced Placement courses. Teachers encourage students to think critically, communicate clearly, and integrate faith into their studies. Learners graduate with a strong foundation for college and lifelong discipleship.
Beyond academics, student life at Lumen Christi is enriched by athletics, fine arts, service opportunities, and extracurricular activities. These experiences give learners outlets for creativity, leadership, and teamwork. School pride and community spirit grow through active participation.
Families, parish members, and the broader community provide strong support for the school. Their mentorship, resources, and encouragement strengthen both academic and spiritual life. With this collaboration, Lumen Christi Catholic High School continues to thrive as a faith-driven center of learning.
Where is Lumen Christi Catholic High School?
Lumen Christi Catholic High School is a private Catholic school located in Anchorage, Alaska. Serving students in grades 7–12, it provides a college-preparatory education rooted in Catholic faith, academics, and community service.
Its smaller school environment fosters close student-teacher relationships while connecting students to both parish life and the broader Anchorage community.
#3. Amazing Grace Academy
– Location: Palmer, AK
– Enrollment: 108 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Student life at Amazing Grace Academy is grounded in a Christ-centered community where fellowship and service are at the heart of daily learning. Learners engage in athletics, music, and outreach programs that strengthen both character and teamwork. These experiences give students balance while building lifelong connections.
The academic program provides a college-preparatory curriculum rooted in Christian principles. Core subjects are paired with faith-based instruction that encourages learners to grow spiritually as well as intellectually. Teachers guide students in developing problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
Tradition plays an important role in the academy’s culture. Respect, perseverance, and responsibility are values carried forward through each new generation of learners. This foundation gives students a strong identity while shaping them into compassionate leaders.
Families and local churches actively support the mission of Amazing Grace Academy. Their mentorship, encouragement, and resources enrich the academic and spiritual life of the school. With this partnership, the academy continues to thrive as a community devoted to faith and learning.
Where is Amazing Grace Academy?
Amazing Grace Academy is a private Christian school located in Palmer, Alaska. Serving students from preschool through 12th grade, it provides a faith-based education that combines academics, character development, and spiritual growth.
Its location in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley offers students a close-knit learning environment surrounded by the natural beauty of south-central Alaska.
#2. Holy Rosary Academy
– Location: Anchorage, AK
– Enrollment: 162 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Holy Rosary Academy is rooted in Catholic tradition, offering students a faith-based education that emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual growth. The school’s mission centers on forming well-rounded individuals who live with integrity, compassion, and purpose. This foundation guides learners toward lives of service and leadership.
The academic program blends a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with Catholic teaching. Core courses, electives, and opportunities for advanced study give students the tools to think critically and communicate effectively. Teachers mentor learners to grow intellectually while keeping faith at the center of their education.
Student life is enriched by athletics, fine arts, and service opportunities. These activities allow learners to develop teamwork, creativity, and leadership while strengthening community ties. Participation helps balance academics and reinforces the values of respect and responsibility.
Families, parish members, and alumni play a vital role in sustaining Holy Rosary’s mission. Their encouragement, resources, and mentorship provide students with support both inside and outside the classroom. With this collaboration, Holy Rosary Academy continues to thrive as a faith-driven community of learning.
Where is Holy Rosary Academy?
Holy Rosary Academy is a private Catholic school located in Anchorage, Alaska. Offering classes from preschool through 12th grade, it provides a classical, faith-based education that integrates rigorous academics with Catholic tradition and values.
Its small-school environment fosters close relationships while preparing students for higher education and lifelong service rooted in faith.
#1. Catholic Schools of Fairbanks
– Location: Fairbanks, AK
– Enrollment: 372 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
The Catholic Schools of Fairbanks provide students with a Christ-centered education that blends faith, academics, and service. Rooted in Jesuit and Catholic traditions, the schools focus on developing leaders who act with integrity and compassion. This mission prepares learners for success in both higher education and community life.
Academically, students follow a rigorous college-preparatory program supported by honors, Advanced Placement, and elective courses. Teachers encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and communication while integrating Catholic values into daily instruction. Graduates leave with strong academic skills and a firm moral foundation.
Student life is enriched through athletics, performing arts, clubs, and service opportunities. These activities allow learners to explore their interests, strengthen leadership, and foster teamwork. The sense of community created through these experiences deepens school pride.
Families, parish members, and alumni are vital partners in the schools’ success. Their encouragement, resources, and mentorship expand opportunities for students both in and out of the classroom. With this collaboration, the Catholic Schools of Fairbanks continue to thrive as a faith-driven community of excellence.
Where is Catholic Schools of Fairbanks?
Catholic Schools of Fairbanks is a private Catholic school system located in Fairbanks, Alaska. It serves students from preschool through 12th grade and includes Monroe Catholic High School as part of its campus.
The schools provide a Christ-centered education that blends academics, faith formation, and community service, offering families in Interior Alaska a supportive and mission-driven learning environment.
This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Emma Rubin, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
By Stacker
