Best private high schools in Nevada
As filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron said during a ’96 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 Nevada 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.
You may also like: States sending the most people to Nevada
#17. Mountain View Christian Schools
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 203 (7:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B-
About
Mountain View Christian Schools is recognized for small class sizes and a close-knit culture. Teachers pair clear expectations with individualized support for every learner. This balance helps students grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
College-preparatory coursework emphasizes writing, problem-solving, and collaboration. Students explore electives that build creativity and confidence. Frequent feedback guides steady growth across subjects.
Extracurricular options include arts, athletics, and service organizations. Participation develops leadership, teamwork, and resilience. These programs complement the classroom and strengthen school spirit.
Families value the school’s communication and student-centered approach. Counselors help align course choices with long-term goals. Consistent outcomes reinforce its standing among Nevada’s top private schools.
Where is Mountain View Christian Schools?
Mountain View Christian Schools is located in Las Vegas within the Las Vegas Valley. The city offers museums, libraries, and community centers that support enrichment. Parks and trail systems provide year-round recreation in a desert climate. Regional highways and transit connect students to cultural venues and universities.
#16. GV Christian School
– Location: Henderson, NV
– Enrollment: 600 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B
About
GV Christian School blends rigorous academics with character-focused instruction. Teachers set ambitious goals while providing targeted support. Students learn to communicate clearly and solve complex problems.
A college-prep sequence includes advanced courses and purposeful electives. Projects encourage inquiry, creativity, and collaboration. Regular check-ins help students track progress and adjust strategies.
Arts, athletics, and student organizations are central to campus life. Performances and competitions create opportunities to lead and excel. These activities foster pride and a strong sense of belonging.
Families appreciate steady communication and a welcoming environment. Counselors guide planning for college admissions and scholarships. Reliable results keep the school highly regarded statewide.
Where is GV Christian School?
GV Christian School is in Henderson, a city adjacent to Las Vegas. The community features extensive parks, recreation centers, and libraries. Proximity to major employers and colleges expands mentorship options. Well-connected roadways offer convenient access to regional resources.
#15. Cristo Rey St. Viator
– Location: North Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 260 (13:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B
About
Cristo Rey St. Viator combines challenging academics with real-world learning. Teachers emphasize research, writing, and professional skills. Students learn to collaborate and communicate with purpose.
Coursework is designed to prepare graduates for selective colleges. Electives allow exploration in arts, technology, and world languages. Advising helps students map multi-year plans that reflect ambitions.
Clubs, athletics, and service programs strengthen community ties. Students practice leadership through projects and presentations. These experiences build confidence and resilience.
Families value clear expectations and consistent feedback. Support systems help learners balance academics with experiential opportunities. Strong outcomes sustain the school’s growing reputation.
Where is Cristo Rey St. Viator?
Cristo Rey St. Viator is located in North Las Vegas within the metropolitan area. The community offers access to job corridors, civic venues, and parks. Cultural institutions and libraries provide research and internship options. Major routes connect students to colleges and regional partners.
#14. Excel Christian School
– Location: Sparks, NV
– Enrollment: 208 (8:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade B+
About
Excel Christian School is known for close relationships and purposeful rigor. Teachers pair high expectations with individualized support. Students learn to analyze texts, solve problems, and present ideas clearly.
College-prep pathways include advanced classes and meaningful electives. Projects connect classroom concepts to real-life contexts. Frequent feedback encourages steady academic growth.
Arts, athletics, and clubs invite broad participation. Students develop teamwork and leadership through performances and competitions. These activities enrich daily life on campus.
Families appreciate a safe environment and responsive communication. Counselors guide course planning and postsecondary preparation. Consistent results uphold the school’s strong reputation.
Where is Excel Christian School?
Excel Christian School is in Sparks, part of the Reno-Sparks metro area. The community features parks, regional trails, and family-friendly amenities. Nearby cultural venues and colleges expand enrichment opportunities. Interstate connections provide quick access to museums and civic centers.
#13. American Heritage Academy
– Location: Henderson, NV
– Enrollment: 336 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
You may also like: What Medicaid acceptance looks like at Nevada substance use treatment centers
About
American Heritage Academy emphasizes scholarship, character, and service. Teachers provide structured instruction with timely feedback. Students practice critical thinking and effective communication every day.
A robust college-prep curriculum offers advanced options and electives. Interdisciplinary projects encourage inquiry and creativity. Advising helps families plan courses that reflect long-term goals.
Athletics, arts, and student organizations shape a vibrant culture. Leadership roles allow learners to design events and mentor peers. These opportunities foster confidence and initiative.
Families value strong partnerships with teachers and staff. Supports help students balance academics with activities and community life. Reliable outcomes keep the academy among Nevada’s best.
Where is American Heritage Academy?
American Heritage Academy is located in Henderson in the Las Vegas Valley. The city is known for extensive parks, trail systems, and community programming. Cultural institutions and libraries support research and enrichment. Regional roadways connect students to internships and higher education.
#12. Awaken Christian Academy
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 396 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
About
Awaken Christian Academy pairs a nurturing culture with ambitious academics. Teachers use clear learning targets and consistent feedback. Students develop study habits that translate to long-term success.
College-prep pathways feature advanced courses and purposeful electives. Projects emphasize research, collaboration, and real-world application. Advising ensures plans align with future goals.
Arts, athletics, and service groups welcome wide participation. Performances and competitions build perseverance and teamwork. These experiences strengthen pride and community connection.
Families appreciate open communication and a safe environment. Targeted supports help learners manage rigorous schedules. Steady results reinforce the school’s strong standing.
Where is Awaken Christian Academy?
Awaken Christian Academy is situated in Las Vegas within the broader valley. Students benefit from nearby libraries, museums, and recreation centers. Parks and desert trails encourage outdoor learning and wellness. Major corridors provide access to colleges and cultural venues.
#11. Calvary Chapel Green Valley Christian Academy
– Location: Henderson, NV
– Enrollment: 119 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
About
Calvary Chapel Green Valley Christian Academy is recognized for personalized instruction. Teachers set high expectations and offer individual guidance. Students strengthen literacy, numeracy, and communication across subjects.
The curriculum includes college-prep courses and creative electives. Project-based learning helps connect ideas to practical contexts. Regular reflection promotes growth and confidence.
Extracurricular programs include arts, athletics, and student leadership. Participation teaches responsibility, teamwork, and service. These offerings enrich the school’s welcoming culture.
Families value transparent communication and caring support systems. Counselors assist with long-term planning and readiness. Consistent outcomes maintain the school’s positive reputation.
Where is Calvary Chapel Green Valley Christian Academy?
Calvary Chapel Green Valley Christian Academy is in Henderson’s Green Valley area at 2615 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy near the I-215 Beltway. The neighborhood clusters parks and amenities—Paseo Verde Library, Cornerstone Park and lake, Arroyo Grande Sports Complex, the Henderson Multigenerational Center, and The District at Green Valley Ranch—within a short drive.
Major corridors (Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Valle Verde Dr, St. Rose Pkwy, and I-215) connect students to UNLV, CSN, museums, and cultural venues across the Las Vegas Valley.
#10. Sierra Lutheran High School
– Location: Carson City, NV
– Enrollment: 127 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
About
Sierra Lutheran High School offers a focused college-prep experience. Teachers blend high expectations with close mentorship. Students refine writing, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Advanced coursework and electives provide academic depth and balance. Field experiences connect learning to local civic life. Frequent feedback keeps progress on track.
Athletics, arts, and clubs encourage broad participation. Students take on leadership roles that cultivate responsibility. These opportunities strengthen community and school pride.
Families appreciate a safe environment and steady communication. Advising supports careful planning for college admissions. Strong outcomes sustain the school’s statewide standing.
Where is Sierra Lutheran High School?
Sierra Lutheran High School is located in Carson City, Nevada’s capital region. The community offers museums, libraries, and access to the Sierra foothills. Parks and trail systems support outdoor learning and recreation. Regional roadways connect students to universities and cultural venues.
#9. Word of Life Christian Academy
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 226 (16:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
About
Word of Life Christian Academy is known for supportive teaching and purposeful rigor. Instructors provide structured lessons with individualized feedback. Students build confidence through daily practice and reflection.
College-prep pathways include advanced courses and electives in the arts. Collaborative projects develop research and communication skills. Advising helps align choices with postsecondary goals.
Co-curriculars feature athletics, fine arts, and service initiatives. Students learn leadership by planning events and mentoring peers. These experiences enrich the academic program.
Families value transparent communication and a safe, welcoming culture. Targeted supports help learners meet ambitious expectations. Consistent results reinforce the academy’s reputation for quality.
Where is Word of Life Christian Academy?
Word of Life Christian Academy is in Las Vegas within the urban core. The city provides access to libraries, museums, and community programs. Parks and recreation centers offer spaces for wellness and play. Regional routes connect students to colleges and internship sites.
#8. Liberty Baptist Academy
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 166 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A-
You may also like: How drunk driving fatalities in Nevada compare to the rest of the US
About
Liberty Baptist Academy emphasizes strong academics and character formation. Teachers set clear goals and offer personalized support. Students practice analysis, writing, and collaboration across courses.
A college-prep curriculum features advanced classes and creative electives. Projects encourage inquiry and problem-solving. Frequent checkpoints help students stay on pace.
Athletics, arts, and clubs invite students to explore interests. Leadership roles develop responsibility and initiative. These activities strengthen connection and school spirit.
Families appreciate open communication and attentive counseling. Planning tools guide course selection and college readiness. Reliable outcomes sustain the school’s respected standing.
Where is Liberty Baptist Academy?
Liberty Baptist Academy is located in Las Vegas in the central valley. Nearby parks, libraries, and cultural venues support enrichment. Community centers host youth programs and events throughout the year. Major corridors provide access to universities and regional resources.
#7. Trinity International School
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 81 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Trinity International School delivers rigorous academics in a small-school setting. Teachers pair high expectations with individualized attention. Students build strong foundations in literacy, math, and science.
College-prep offerings include advanced coursework and global-minded electives. Projects focus on research, presentation, and collaboration. Advising helps students design multi-year academic plans.
Extracurriculars span arts, athletics, and service organizations. Participation develops leadership and resilience. These experiences complement classroom learning and foster pride.
Families value consistent communication and a supportive culture. Counselors provide guidance for testing, timelines, and applications. Steady outcomes keep the school highly regarded statewide.
Where is Trinity International School?
Trinity International School is situated in Las Vegas near major community amenities. The area includes libraries, recreation centers, and neighborhood parks. Cultural institutions offer exhibits, classes, and performances. Convenient routes connect students to colleges and regional programs.
#6. Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 2,036 (17:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School is one of Nevada’s largest private schools. Teachers combine high standards with extensive student supports. Learners practice analysis, writing, and collaboration in every department.
The school offers a wide array of advanced courses and signature programs. Students explore arts, technology, and design alongside core studies. Project-based learning connects coursework to real-world challenges.
Clubs, athletics, and performing arts create a dynamic campus culture. Leadership roles allow students to plan events and mentor peers. These opportunities build confidence and community.
Families appreciate clear communication and comprehensive college counseling. Advisors help navigate testing, scholarships, and applications. Strong outcomes reinforce the school’s statewide reputation.
Where is Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School?
Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School is in Las Vegas on the west side of the valley. The area features community parks, libraries, and sports facilities. Cultural venues and universities are accessible across the metro. Well-connected corridors make regional enrichment convenient.
#5. Lake Mead Christian Academy
– Location: Henderson, NV
– Enrollment: 837 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Lake Mead Christian Academy blends rigorous academics with a caring environment. Teachers provide clear learning targets and frequent feedback. Students learn habits that support long-term success.
College-prep courses pair with electives in arts, technology, and business. Projects encourage inquiry, creativity, and collaboration. Advising helps students align plans with future goals.
Athletics, fine arts, and service programs engage learners widely. Students develop leadership by organizing events and teams. These experiences strengthen community and school pride.
Families value steady communication and student-centered supports. Counselors guide timelines for testing and applications. Consistent outcomes keep the academy among the state’s best.
Where is Lake Mead Christian Academy?
Lake Mead Christian Academy is located in Henderson near regional recreation areas. The community offers extensive parks, trails, and community facilities. Cultural institutions and libraries support academic enrichment. Major roadways connect students to colleges and civic partners.
#4. Bishop Manogue Catholic High School
– Location: Reno, NV
– Enrollment: 638 (14:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Bishop Manogue Catholic High School combines tradition with forward-looking academics. Teachers set rigorous standards while providing close mentorship. Students strengthen research, writing, and quantitative reasoning.
Advanced coursework and electives offer breadth and depth. Projects link classroom concepts to community contexts. Regular feedback supports measurable growth.
Athletics, campus ministry, and the arts are central to school life. Leadership roles encourage service and advocacy. These programs build character and community engagement.
Families appreciate transparent communication and comprehensive guidance. College counseling supports selective admissions and scholarships. Strong outcomes maintain the school’s excellent reputation.
Where is Bishop Manogue Catholic High School?
Bishop Manogue Catholic High School is in Reno at the base of the Sierra Nevada. The city features museums, libraries, and university partnerships. Parks and regional trails support outdoor learning and wellness. Interstate connections link students to cultural and academic venues.
#3. Bishop Gorman High School
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 1,474 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
You may also like: Cities with the most expensive homes in Nevada
About
Bishop Gorman High School is nationally known for rigorous academics and extracurricular success. Teachers blend high expectations with robust support systems. Students learn to think critically, write clearly, and collaborate effectively.
The curriculum includes a wide selection of advanced courses and electives. Signature programs and research opportunities challenge motivated learners. Advising helps families plan for competitive admissions.
Athletics, performing arts, and student leadership are pillars of campus life. Teams and ensembles regularly compete at high levels. These experiences cultivate resilience, teamwork, and pride.
Families value comprehensive communication and college-planning resources. Students receive guidance on testing, scholarships, and applications. Consistent outcomes sustain the school’s top-tier status.
Where is Bishop Gorman High School?
Bishop Gorman High School is located in Las Vegas in the southwestern valley. The area offers parks, libraries, and community recreation facilities. Cultural venues and universities are reachable across the metro. Major corridors provide access to internships and service opportunities.
#2. The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson School
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 685 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson School is distinguished by academic excellence and global perspective. Teachers combine rigorous instruction with individualized attention. Students build strong skills in research, writing, and collaboration.
Advanced courses and signature electives provide meaningful challenge. Projects connect classroom learning to real-world issues. Advising supports multi-year planning for selective admissions.
Arts, athletics, and service programs offer broad participation. Leadership roles allow students to design initiatives and mentor peers. These experiences develop confidence and purpose.
Families appreciate comprehensive communication and student supports. Counselors assist with testing timelines and scholarship planning. Strong outcomes uphold the school’s elite reputation.
Where is The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson School?
The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson School is in Las Vegas near major community amenities. Libraries, museums, and recreation centers provide enrichment options. Parks and trails support wellness throughout the year. Road networks connect students to universities and cultural venues across the valley.
#1. The Meadows School
– Location: Las Vegas, NV
– Enrollment: 960 (6:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
The Meadows School is widely regarded as Nevada’s premier independent school. Teachers set exceptionally high standards and provide close mentorship. Students master analysis, writing, and collaborative problem-solving.
A deep college-prep curriculum features numerous advanced courses and electives. Interdisciplinary projects encourage inquiry and creativity. Regular feedback helps learners refine their craft.
Arts, athletics, and student leadership are woven into daily life. Performances, competitions, and publications showcase talent and initiative. These opportunities foster community and school pride.
Families value a culture of excellence and transparent communication. College counseling supports ambitious goals and selective admissions. Consistent outcomes confirm the school’s top statewide status.
Where is The Meadows School?
The Meadows School is located in Las Vegas within the Las Vegas Valley. Nearby cultural institutions and libraries support academic enrichment. Parks and sports facilities offer year-round activities in a desert climate. Regional roadways connect students to universities and civic partners.
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
