Best Non-Religious Private Schools Near Me: How to Choose
- Private School Village
- May 13
- 6 min read
Table of Contents
Searching for a non-religious private school that fits your family's values and your child’s learning style can feel overwhelming, especially when you're navigating a sea of polished brochures and generic rankings. At PrivateSchoolVillage.org, we’ve walked this path with hundreds of families. Based on firsthand conversations, campus visits, and deep engagement with school communities, we know what truly matters beyond the stats: culturally affirming environments, student-centered teaching, and inclusive values that aren’t just talked about—they're lived daily. In this guide, we share what we've learned to help you confidently choose the best non-religious private schools near you. This isn't just another list—it's a reflection of real family priorities, school culture insights, and the critical questions you won’t find in traditional directories.
Top Takeaways
Prioritize fit, not just academics: Look for schools that support your child’s emotional well-being and identity.
Focus on leadership and teachers: Choose schools with diverse leadership and student-centered educators.
Go beyond rankings: Trust your instincts—visit schools and connect with families for insights.
Leverage real-world insights: Talk to parents and learn from firsthand experiences.
Take your time: Don’t rush—this decision shapes your child’s future.
"At PrivateSchoolVillage.org, we don’t just match families with schools—we help them find environments that truly align with their child’s identity and values. From firsthand conversations with hundreds of families, we know that it’s not just about academics. Families are seeking schools that understand their child’s emotional needs, foster real inclusion, and provide a space where they can thrive. This is why we focus on what truly matters: cultural fit, student well-being, and leadership that actively supports diverse identities."
Supporting Statistics: What the Numbers Reveal—and Why They Matter
At PrivateSchoolVillage.org, our work with families confirms what national data shows: parents want more than academics—they want values-aligned, emotionally supportive, and truly inclusive non-religious school environments.
1. Most Private Schools Are Religious
66% of U.S. private schools have a religious affiliation Source: U.S. Dept. of Education (NCES, 2021)
What we see: Families often struggle to find quality secular options.
Our approach: We help identify lesser-known, progressive non-religious schools that don’t show up in traditional rankings.
2. Parents Prioritize Educators, Not Just Facilities
92% of parents rate teacher/principal quality as very important Source: NCES, 2019
What we hear: Families want culturally competent, student-centered staff.
Our tip: Ask real questions during tours—like “How does leadership support student identity and belonging?”
3. Emotional Health Is Non-Negotiable
27% of schools added SEL/mental health classes since 2020 Source: KFF, 2023
What families tell us: Rigor alone isn’t enough—kids need to feel emotionally safe.
What we look for: Schools where SEL is part of the culture, not just a one-off program.
💡 Insight from the Ground
Families are asking better questions.
They’re choosing values over prestige.
And they’re not settling for “good enough.”
Final Thought & Opinion: Choosing the Right Non-Religious Private School
Finding the best non-religious private school is more than just comparing test scores—it’s about matching values, supporting emotional well-being, and fostering a true sense of belonging.
Highlights
It’s Not Just About Academics
Families want schools that nurture both the heart and the mind.
Schools should be environments where emotional safety and intellectual curiosity coexist.
Cultural Fit Matters Most
The best schools embrace authentic inclusion and foster real belonging.
Leadership should actively support diverse identities and engage with families beyond marketing statements.
Our Unique Insight
Emotional Safety Equals Success
Students who feel supported in their identity and values are more likely to thrive academically.
Schools should be seen as partners in growth, where both families and educators work towards a shared goal: the child’s success.
My Opinion
Heart and Mind Should Work Together
The best school is one that helps students grow in every sense: emotionally, intellectually, and socially.
Schools with strong values and commitment to inclusion lead to long-term success for students and families alike.
Next Steps: Finding the Right School for Your Child
Ready to take the next steps? Here’s how to move forward with confidence:
1. Assess Your Priorities
List values and needs (e.g., cultural inclusion, mental health).
Rank them based on importance.
2. Explore Schools Near You
Use resources like PrivateSchoolVillage.org to find non-religious private schools.
Visit each school’s website for details on their mission and programs.
3. Schedule School Tours
Prepare questions on cultural fit, teacher quality, and emotional safety.
4. Connect with Parents
Join forums or parent groups for real-world insights.
Ask about their experiences and how the school supports students.
5. Evaluate & Decide
Compare schools based on your list of priorities.
Choose the school that feels like the best fit for your child.
6. Get Support if Needed
Reach out to PrivateSchoolVillage.org for personalized guidance.
We can help with school matching and expert advice.
7. Apply!
Start the application process as soon as you’re ready.
Keep track of deadlines and documents.
By following these steps, you’ll be on the right path to finding a school that aligns with your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there private schools without religion?
Yes, there are private schools that do not adhere to any specific religious doctrine. These schools are often referred to as non-sectarian or secular private schools. They aim to provide education without the influence of any religious beliefs or practices.
What is a non-religious school called?
A non-religious school is typically referred to as a secular school. This type of school focuses on providing a well-rounded education that does not include religious teachings or practices in its curriculum.
Can you go to a private school without being religious?
Yes, you can attend a private school without being religious. While some private schools are religious, many others are secular and do not require students to adhere to a specific faith or belief system. It's always advised to research a school's philosophy and policies before enrolling.
Who removed religion from schools?
The removal of religious practices from public schools in the United States can be largely attributed to a series of Supreme Court decisions in the 1960s, including Engel v. Vitale and Abington School District v. Schempp. These rulings asserted that government-mandated religious activities in public schools violated the First Amendment's Establishment Clause.
Why do people pay for private school?
People often pay for private school because they believe it provides a superior education. This can be due to smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, a wider range of extracurricular activities, or a curriculum that better aligns with their personal beliefs and values.
What percentage of US private schools are religious?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 79% of private schools in the United States have a religious orientation or purpose. This includes Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and other religious schools.
Are public schools better than private schools?
Whether public schools are better than private schools often depends on individual circumstances and needs. Some people prefer public schools because they are usually more diverse and offer a variety of programs and services. Others prefer private schools for their smaller class sizes and more personalized learning environments.
How to know if a private school is good?
To determine if a private school is good, you can look at factors such as the school's accreditation status, class sizes, student-teacher ratio, curriculum, extracurricular offerings, and the qualifications of the faculty. Feedback from current students and parents can also provide valuable insights.
How much does private school cost in the US?
The cost of private school in the US can vary greatly depending on the location and the specific school. On average, however, the annual tuition for a private K-12 school is around $11,000. Some exclusive private schools can cost upwards of $40,000 per year.
Do private schools pay taxes?
Private schools are generally exempt from taxes because they are considered non-profit organizations. However, they are required to pay taxes on unrelated business income, and employees of private schools pay income taxes.
Can private schools discriminate based on religion?
In the United States, private schools that are not receiving federal funds can discriminate based on religion. This means that they can choose to admit students based on their religious beliefs or require students to adhere to certain religious practices.
Are private schools strict?
Private schools often have stricter rules and higher academic standards than public schools. This may include uniform requirements, stricter discipline policies, and more rigorous coursework. However, the level of strictness can vary greatly from one private school to another.
Comments