Hello friends welcome to the TigerJek, if you are searching for Best schools in Georgia then you are at right place. Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family, and Georgia offers a wide range of excellent options for students of all ages. From top-rated public schools to prestigious private institutions, the state is home to campuses that are known for their strong academics, dedicated teachers, diverse extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environments.
Whether you’re looking for innovative STEM programs, college-preparatory excellence, or nurturing early education, Georgia’s schools stand out for their commitment to student success. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best schools in Georgia that continue to set high standards in education and help shape the leaders of tomorrow.
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Midtown International School
Located at 1575 Sheridan Road NE in Atlanta, Midtown International School is an independent, non-sectarian private school that serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. With a strong focus on gifted and high-achieving learners, MIS has established itself as one of Georgia’s most innovative educational institutions. Families can reach the school directly at (404) 542-7003.
The mission of Midtown International School is to help gifted students engage deeply with learning and thrive in a globally minded, problem-based environment. The school emphasizes values such as curiosity, respect, justice, and celebrating differences as strengths. Students are encouraged to think critically, solve real-world problems, and develop into compassionate global citizens. MIS is accredited by respected organizations including the National Association of Independent Schools, the Georgia Accrediting Commission, Cognia (AdvancED), and the Georgia Independent School Association.
MIS offers a carefully structured curriculum across all grade levels:
- Elementary School (K–5):
Young learners are introduced to critical thinking through cross-curricular projects in humanities and STEM. Language learning begins early, with Spanish, Mandarin, and American Sign Language offered from kindergarten. Daily enrichment in art, music, theater, computer science, and physical education rounds out the program. - Middle School (6–8):
Students build independence by pursuing personal interests, exploring electives, and participating in leadership opportunities. International travel experiences are an important part of the middle school journey, broadening students’ perspectives. - High School (9–12):
MIS high schoolers benefit from small class sizes, with no more than 15 students per class. The academic program combines standard and honors courses with dual enrollment opportunities at Oglethorpe University and Georgia Tech. Students may also choose to self-study for Advanced Placement (AP) exams. A unique “HS 101” course helps ninth graders transition smoothly by focusing on academic skills, digital literacy, stress management, and college readiness.
Teachers at MIS act as co-learners alongside students, creating a collaborative atmosphere. Nearly half of the faculty are multilingual, and more than 60% hold advanced degrees. Small class sizes, typically with a student–teacher ratio of 4:1 to 6:1, allow for personalized attention and individualized learning paths. The curriculum is flexible, creative, and globally focused, ensuring students are challenged while supported.
Midtown International School enrolls approximately 150–234 students each year, maintaining its commitment to intimate learning environments. The average SAT score for MIS students ranges between 1300 and 1420, and the school proudly boasts a 100% graduation rate. Annual tuition is around $23,900–$24,000. MIS consistently earns recognition as one of Georgia’s top private schools, ranking highly in categories such as STEM education, college preparation, and overall academic excellence.
The Westminster Schools
Located in the heart of Atlanta’s prestigious Buckhead neighborhood, The Westminster Schools have built a reputation as one of the most respected private schools in Georgia. The campus, found at 1424 West Paces Ferry Road NW, offers a serene and academically vibrant environment for students from Pre-First (early kindergarten) through 12th grade.
History & Heritage
Founded in 1951, Westminster traces its roots back to 1878 through its predecessor, Washington Seminary. Since then, the school has grown into a nationally recognized institution while staying true to its Christian foundation and commitment to developing ethical, well-rounded leaders.
Mission & Culture
Westminster is dedicated to cultivating bright, curious, and motivated students who thrive when challenged. The school emphasizes experiential learning, service opportunities, design thinking, and innovation, alongside strong Christian values. At the same time, it embraces inclusivity by welcoming students of all faiths, backgrounds, and perspectives, fostering a community where character development is just as important as academic success.
Academics & Student Outcomes
With nearly 1,900 students enrolled, Westminster maintains an impressive 6:1 student–teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention and meaningful relationships between students and faculty. Academic performance is consistently outstanding, with average SAT scores around 1440, ACT scores averaging 33, and an average GPA of 3.79. Students also have access to 23 Advanced Placement courses, with a pass rate of about 82%, reflecting the school’s strong college preparatory focus.
The school boasts a 100% graduation rate, and its graduates are highly competitive in admissions to top colleges and universities nationwide. Tuition averages $34,106 per year, with about 11% of students receiving financial aid, ensuring that opportunities remain accessible to a diverse population.
Recognition & Rankings
Westminster consistently ranks among the very best schools in the state. It holds the title of #1 Best Christian High School in Georgia and ranks as #2 among private high schools and K–12 schools statewide.
Atlanta International School – Sandy Springs Campus
The Atlanta International School – Sandy Springs Campus is the newest addition to AIS, located on a serene 25-acre wooded site along the Chattahoochee River. Acquired in late 2023, the campus occupies the former Brandon Hall School facilities and blends natural beauty with a strong academic setting.
Set to open in August 2025, the Sandy Springs campus will welcome both boarding and day students in grades 9 through 12. The school will offer the full International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, including the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students in grades 9 and 10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) or Career-related Programme (CP) for those in grades 11 and 12.
One of the most exciting aspects of this expansion is that it introduces AIS’s first dedicated boarding program. Designed to house up to 70 students, the residential facilities provide a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially. Beyond academics, the boarding program fosters college readiness and builds a diverse international community.
The campus itself is thoughtfully designed to enrich student life. It features modern dormitories with on-site staff, classrooms and laboratories, and versatile meeting spaces. Students also enjoy access to new recreational facilities, including four state-of-the-art tennis courts—home to Georgia’s first Mouratoglou Tennis Academy—along with a gym, student lounge, and open-air gathering areas such as the Great Hall, River House, and a riverside overlook. In addition, the grounds serve as a registered wildlife sanctuary and host AIS summer camps, AISx flexible academic programs, and other experiential opportunities.
Academically, the Sandy Springs campus mirrors AIS’s Buckhead location by delivering the complete IB continuum. It also houses AISx, an innovative program tailored for student-athletes, artists, or others who need flexible scheduling, offering learning in virtual, in-person, or blended formats.
At its core, Atlanta International School remains committed to its mission of developing courageous leaders who shape the world for the better. With students representing more than 90 nationalities and speaking over 60 languages, the Sandy Springs campus continues the school’s tradition of celebrating diversity, intercultural understanding, and global perspectives.
Ethos Classical Charter School
Ethos Classical Charter School is a tuition-free public charter school located in the Sylvan Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, at 2295 Springdale Circle SW. The school serves families across both Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County School districts, offering an accessible, high-quality education for children in the community.
The school was founded in 2019 under the leadership of Emily White León, a Building Excellent Schools fellow. It opened its doors with kindergarten and third-grade classes and has steadily grown since then. Ethos was built on a mission to provide a rigorous, classical curriculum within a structured and supportive environment—ensuring that every student is prepared not only for higher education but also for a life of opportunity.
The academic program at Ethos is centered on literacy and the humanities, with additional emphasis on math, the arts, and enrichment opportunities. Classrooms follow a two-teacher model, allowing students to receive more individualized attention and stronger support. Daily literacy instruction is anchored in the Lifelong Readers curriculum and supplemented with blended learning tools like Lexia. Writing is taught through structured methods such as The Writing Revolution, while math instruction blends fluency practice, conceptual understanding, and real-world problem-solving through programs like Eureka Math, CGI, and Zearn. Beyond core academics, students enjoy a robust arts program—spanning visual arts, music, and performing arts—while also gaining exposure to computer science and Spanish through engaging platforms like Seesaw and Tynker.
Since its opening, the school has experienced steady growth. In Fall 2025, Ethos will expand into middle school with the addition of sixth grade. Its long-term goal is to serve up to 648 students in grades K–5, with enrollment currently around 535 and an average student–teacher ratio of 18:1. Importantly, over 80% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, reflecting the school’s strong commitment to serving underserved families south of I-20.
Despite many students entering below grade level, Ethos has demonstrated impressive academic outcomes. Roughly 85% of kindergarten students surpass expected reading levels, while third graders consistently rank in the 98th–99th percentile for growth in both literacy and math. At the state level, student proficiency stands at 45% in reading and 25% in math—evidence of both progress and continued focus on achievement.
The school operates on a nearly six-acre campus, originally centered around a renovated church building of about 11,000 square feet. Over time, modular classrooms were added, followed by a new three-story, 30,000-square-foot addition completed in 2022 to support its growth.
Families and staff alike describe Ethos as a warm and supportive community. Parents consistently praise the school’s dedicated teachers, strong leadership, and emphasis on integrating the arts into learning. Teachers and staff echo these sentiments, noting that the school fosters collaboration, empowerment, and a genuine commitment to student success.
Ethos Classical Charter School stands out as a dynamic, community-centered school that blends rigorous academics with creativity, culture, and care.
Benjamin Preparatory School
Benjamin Preparatory School is a Christian-based early education program serving families across several Greater Atlanta locations, including Vinings and Kennesaw. Rooted in faith, creativity, and academic enrichment, the school provides young learners with an immersive environment where both character and intellect are nurtured.
At the heart of Benjamin Prep’s mission is its “whole child” philosophy, which balances academic, social, emotional, and physical growth within a Christ-centered framework. Christian values—such as integrity, compassion, and character formation—are woven into everyday learning. The school also emphasizes transparency, ensuring families understand tuition and fees while maintaining affordability and trust.
The academic experience at Benjamin Prep is both rigorous and creative. Its distinctive STEAM+ curriculum blends Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics with a biblical worldview, helping students connect faith with inquiry and discovery. Students engage in hands-on academic enrichment, performing arts, and athletics, all included as part of the program. This approach fosters perseverance, critical thinking, and confidence from the earliest years.
The school operates out of the Providence International Christian Church and other facilities, making use of expanded spaces designed to support its STEAM+ vision. Programs are play-based and developmentally tailored, ensuring children build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, social-emotional skills, and expressive arts while enjoying engaging and age-appropriate learning experiences.
Benjamin Prep also places a strong emphasis on family and community. Through initiatives like Parent Powerhouse workshops, family gatherings, and community events, parents are encouraged to play an active role in their child’s education. The result is a school culture that feels warm, collaborative, and deeply supportive—one where families, teachers, and students grow together.
In all, Benjamin Preparatory School stands out as a faith-led, nurturing, and academically rich environment that prepares children not just for school, but for life.
Mount Vernon School | Best schools in Georgia
The Mount Vernon School, originally founded as Mount Vernon Presbyterian School in 1972, is a private, coeducational day school in Sandy Springs, Atlanta. Spread across a beautiful 37-acre campus, it serves students from early preschool through grade 12. The Lower Campus is home to preschool through grade 5, while the Middle and Upper Schools are located just a short distance away on Mount Vernon Highway.
With a student body of roughly 1,100 learners, the school maintains small class sizes—typically 10 to 18 students—ensuring close connections between teachers and students. The student–teacher ratio of about 8:1 allows for personalized guidance and meaningful academic engagement.
Mount Vernon is widely recognized for its forward-thinking approach to education. The school emphasizes design thinking, inquiry-based learning, and real-world problem solving. Its modern Upper School facility, opened in 2019, reflects this philosophy with flexible learning neighborhoods, maker studios, VR and art labs, and collaborative hubs that encourage creativity and innovation.
While rooted in Christian values, the school also prioritizes inclusivity and belonging through its IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action) initiative. Students benefit from a robust curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, a Global Scholars track, and opportunities in the arts and experiential learning.
Beyond the classroom, Mount Vernon offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Students can join programs ranging from robotics and entrepreneurship to athletics, with 43 sports teams competing in the Georgia High School Association. Chapel services, small group gatherings, and leadership opportunities further enrich student life.
The school’s reputation is strong both locally and nationally. It consistently ranks among Georgia’s top private schools, placing in the top 10 for K–12 education and earning recognition for its excellence in Christian schooling. With more than 1,200 students enrolled, it is also one of Atlanta’s largest private schools.
Tuition for the 2025–2026 academic year ranges from about $17,000 for preschool to $34,400 for upper grades. The cost includes not only academics, but also advisory support, college counseling, lunch, and unique learning experiences. Financial aid options are available to ensure accessibility for a wide range of families.
In summary, The Mount Vernon School blends academic rigor with innovative learning, strong values, and a vibrant community. Its commitment to preparing students for the future—while fostering creativity, inclusivity, and character—makes it one of Atlanta’s standout independent schools.
The Galloway School
The Galloway School, founded in 1969 by educator Elliott Galloway, is an independent day school that serves students from preschool through grade 12. Nestled in Atlanta’s Chastain Park neighborhood, the school has two main campuses: the Early and Middle Learning programs are located on Chastain Park Avenue, while the Upper School is housed on Northside Parkway in the Paces/Buckhead area. Its setting provides a blend of tradition and innovation, making it a distinctive place for learning.
With an enrollment of roughly 750 students, Galloway offers a close-knit and vibrant community where relationships between students and faculty flourish. The school employs around 102 full-time faculty members, maintaining an impressive student–teacher ratio of about 7:1. This ensures that students receive individualized support while developing strong connections with their teachers and peers.
Academically, Galloway emphasizes a learner-centered and inquiry-driven philosophy. Rather than tracking students into honors courses, the school offers 18 Advanced Placement classes, encouraging all learners to stretch themselves. Its commitment to academic rigor is reflected in results—84 percent of students consistently score a 3 or higher on AP exams. The approach is rooted in the belief that children thrive when they are simultaneously challenged and supported.
Beyond academics, the school is deeply committed to inclusivity and diversity. Galloway prioritizes dignity, respect, and common decency as guiding principles, fostering an environment where each child’s individuality is celebrated. The emphasis on curiosity and creativity is woven into every aspect of school life, preparing students not only for college but also to become thoughtful, enlightened citizens.
Tuition varies by grade level, beginning at around $17,500 for Pre-K and increasing to nearly $30,000–$33,000 for high school. While the acceptance rate is selective at approximately 25 percent, Galloway works to ensure accessibility, with about 14 percent of students receiving financial assistance each year.
The school’s campus also carries a rich history. Its most recognizable landmark was the Gresham Building, a structure originally built in 1911 as a Fulton County Almshouse and later added to the National Register of Historic Places. For decades it served as the symbolic entrance to the school, until its demolition in 2024 due to structural issues. The decision, though difficult, was part of a broader plan to modernize and expand facilities for future generations.
Student life at Galloway is dynamic and well-rounded. Middle schoolers explore electives ranging from robotics and coding to moviemaking and wilderness training, while upper grades enjoy a wide variety of clubs and extracurricular opportunities. Popular offerings include Science Olympiad, calligraphy, and immersive field trips that expand learning beyond the classroom. Athletics also play a strong role in the community, with competitive junior varsity and varsity teams in basketball, volleyball, football, and more.
Altogether, The Galloway School stands out as a progressive, learner-focused institution that blends strong academics with creativity, inclusivity, and personal growth. By combining its rich history with forward-looking values, the school continues to shape students into confident, engaged, and compassionate leaders.
Atlanta Classical Academy
Atlanta Classical Academy, established in 2014, is a tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school in the Atlanta Public Schools district. Located on Northside Drive in the West Paces area, the school occupies the former Heiskell School campus and blends a classical education tradition with a modern approach. Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, ACA has quickly become known for its strong academics and focus on character development. Guided by core virtues such as courage, honesty, humility, perseverance, and service, the school emphasizes both intellectual growth and moral responsibility. Students pledge to “learn the true, do the good, and love the beautiful,” a reflection of the academy’s mission to nurture both mind and character.
Over the years, ACA has achieved impressive milestones, including a 100% college acceptance rate, over $32 million in merit-based scholarships, some of the highest SAT and ACT scores in the district, and recognition as a state Literacy Leader. It has also been ranked first in Georgia for U.S. History Milestone performance and twice awarded the Henry Salvatori Prize for Excellence in Teaching. The curriculum follows a rigorous great-books model, encouraging students to engage with timeless ideas and big questions. Nearly 70% of the faculty hold advanced degrees, and staff retention remains high, underscoring the strength of its academic community.
Life at ACA goes beyond academics, with students encouraged to think deeply, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. A hallmark of the high school experience is the senior thesis project, where students present original, thought-provoking ideas before a formal panel. Enrollment is open to all through a lottery system, with preference given to economically disadvantaged families, ensuring accessibility and diversity. Supported by strong governance, ACA recently secured a five-year charter renewal, affirming its reputation for excellence. In just a decade, Atlanta Classical Academy has grown into a respected institution that prepares students not only for college but also for thoughtful and virtuous lives.
The Davis Academy
The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy, widely recognized as Atlanta’s leading Reform Jewish day school, serves students from Kindergarten Prep through 8th grade. With campuses located on Roberts Drive in Atlanta, the school provides a nurturing environment rooted in Jewish values while preparing students for academic and personal success.
Founded in 1992, The Davis Academy has grown to become the largest Reform Jewish day school in the United States. From the beginning, its mission has been to provide a holistic, student-centered education that balances rigorous academics with the ethical and spiritual teachings of Judaism. The school fosters not only intellectual growth but also strong character, encouraging students to become compassionate, community-minded individuals.
Today, the academy is home to approximately 475–500 students and maintains a low student–teacher ratio of around 6:1. This allows teachers to give each child the personal attention needed to thrive. The curriculum is broad and engaging, blending secular and Judaic studies with social development, Hebrew language instruction, the arts, athletics, community service, and leadership opportunities.
Community life is central to the Davis experience. The school embraces families from a wide range of backgrounds, with students representing many zip codes and international cultures, including Spanish, Hebrew, and Portuguese speakers. Programs such as the Tzedek initiative highlight the school’s deep commitment to social justice and service, ensuring students learn the importance of giving back.
Graduates of The Davis Academy leave well prepared for high school and beyond. Nearly 99% are accepted into top public and private high schools, carrying with them not only academic strength but also a strong moral foundation shaped by the school’s values. Alumni often reflect on the ways Davis helped shape their lifelong commitment to learning, leadership, and community.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, tuition ranges from $18,960 in the Mechina program to $33,770 for middle school, with costs covering supplies and dining. To make education more accessible, roughly one-third of students receive financial aid. The school also offers unique grants, such as the Jewish Community Professional Grant, which may cover up to 50% of tuition for eligible families.
North Atlanta High School
North Atlanta High School, located at 4111 Northside Parkway NW in the Buckhead area, stands as one of Atlanta’s most dynamic public high schools. Established in 1991 through the merger of North Fulton and Northside High Schools, it has grown into a flagship institution within Atlanta Public Schools (APS). Known for its academic rigor, diverse student body, and unique campus design, NAHS offers students an environment that balances high achievement with community spirit.
The school is particularly distinctive for its setting—a repurposed IBM office complex spread across a 56-acre wooded campus. Within its 11-story main building, students are divided into smaller “learning communities,” each designed to foster close connections in an otherwise large school. Modern athletic fields and thoughtfully designed facilities further enhance the student experience, making the campus one of the most unique in the state.
Serving more than 2,300 students in grades 9 through 12, North Atlanta is among the largest schools in APS. With a student–teacher ratio of about 15:1 and over 150 full-time teachers, the school maintains a supportive learning environment. Its student body reflects the diversity of Atlanta itself, with roughly 67% of students identifying as part of a minority group.
Academically, NAHS is well regarded for its robust offerings. It is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, providing students access to a globally recognized curriculum across multiple subjects. Advanced Placement courses are also widely available, with more than half of students participating in AP exams. The school has consistently strong outcomes, including a graduation rate of around 94%, high reading proficiency scores, and recognition as one of the top-ranked schools in Georgia.
Beyond academics, North Atlanta thrives on a culture of involvement and opportunity. Students participate in an extensive range of extracurriculars, from athletics and orchestra to robotics, debate, journalism, and advocacy groups. This balance of rigorous academics, diversity, and vibrant student life reflects the school’s guiding principles of “Diversity, Scholarship, Community,” making North Atlanta High School a standout institution in the city.
The Lovett School
The Lovett School, founded in 1926 by educator Eva Edwards Lovett, is an independent, coeducational day school that serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Located on a 100-acre campus at 4075 Paces Ferry Road NW in north Atlanta, the school welcomes families from across the metropolitan area, representing more than 70 zip codes and 11 counties.
At the heart of Lovett’s mission is a dedication to whole-child education. True to its founder’s philosophy of learning by doing, the school emphasizes intellectual, emotional, and social growth. Its culture is rooted in nurturing “young people of honor, faith, and wisdom,” encouraging students to become thoughtful, compassionate leaders.
The school is home to about 1,600 students and maintains a student–teacher ratio of roughly 8:1, supported by a faculty in which more than 70 percent hold advanced degrees. This balance allows for close mentorship and personalized instruction. The campus itself is designed to foster connection and exploration, offering state-of-the-art academic, artistic, and athletic facilities.
Academically, Lovett is recognized as one of Atlanta’s leading college-preparatory schools. Students have access to 20 honors and 20 Advanced Placement courses, along with distinctive electives such as AP Chinese, Marine Biology, and Global Nonviolence Studies. Signature experiential programs, including SING for freshmen, RAFT for environmental stewardship, and the Junior Outdoor Experience, provide opportunities for personal growth beyond the classroom.
The arts and athletics are integral to the Lovett experience. More than 90 percent of students participate in visual or performing arts, while nearly 80 percent join athletic teams. The school also extends its learning footprint globally, owning an 825-acre cloud forest preserve in Ecuador where students can study biodiversity and conservation firsthand.
Graduates of Lovett are well prepared for higher education, with many going on to attend some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, including Harvard, Stanford, and Duke. Strong SAT performance and numerous National Merit recognitions reflect the school’s academic rigor and student achievement.
Tuition for the 2025–26 school year is approximately $33,350 for grades K–5 and $39,340 for grades 6–12. Lovett is equally committed to making its education accessible, providing more than $6 million in financial aid each year. About 15 percent of students benefit from this support, with the average award exceeding $25,000.
Blending academic excellence, experiential learning, and a values-driven culture, The Lovett School has built a reputation as one of Atlanta’s most respected independent schools. It continues to uphold its legacy of preparing students to thrive academically while growing into engaged, principled citizens.
Heritage Preparatory School
Heritage Preparatory School, a classical Christian institution, was founded in 1998 by a small group of families who desired a faith-rooted, intellectually rich education for their children. The school began in Westminster Presbyterian Church before relocating to Morningside Baptist Church, where it secured a long-term lease—initially for 50 years in 2008 and later extended to 99 years in 2019. This move established a strong and permanent presence in Midtown Atlanta.
From its humble beginnings with just 15 students, Heritage has grown thoughtfully and intentionally. A middle school was added in 2005, with its first graduates completing the program in 2008. In the years that followed, the school expanded its offerings to include athletics, extracurricular clubs, and a distinctive House program. In 2021, Heritage unveiled its high school program and a dedicated Upper School campus, completing its PreK–12 journey. The school is fully accredited by SACS and has been accredited by SAIS since 2014, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.
At the heart of Heritage is its mission to cultivate wisdom, virtue, and character through a classical, biblically grounded education. Daily liturgies, mentorship, and the House system all serve to nurture students not only intellectually but spiritually and morally as well. The school’s motto—Think with excellence. Believe with confidence. Live with character.—captures its holistic approach to learning and life.
Heritage operates across two Midtown campuses: the Lower School, serving PreK through grade 5, and the Upper School, serving grades 6 through 12. The House system, with groups named after influential figures of faith such as Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Mother Teresa, helps foster leadership, service, and community among students. High school students can step into leadership roles such as Prefect or Shepherd while also participating in service learning and mentorship programs.
The school’s community life is vibrant and well-rounded. Students engage in fine arts, athletics, and service projects, while traditions such as hymn sings, class trips, and house competitions enrich the culture of the school. Parents, too, play a vital role in the Heritage experience, with frequent opportunities to participate in workshops and family events.
Academically, Heritage builds its programs on a classical framework that integrates Socratic discussion, Latin, and interdisciplinary humanities to sharpen critical thinking and communication. The high school curriculum combines history, philosophy, and literature in a unified humanities program, supported by a physics-first science sequence, theology across all grades, and enrichment in music, art, and technology, including robotics. Experiential learning is another cornerstone, with opportunities such as January term courses, Washington, D.C. trips for freshmen, European study tours for seniors, and daily mentorship. To encourage balance, the school also maintains an earlier dismissal schedule that allows time for reflection, study, and extracurricular pursuits.
Today, Heritage enrolls approximately 300 students from PreK through grade 12, with class sizes averaging just 12 students. High school tuition is around $26,500, with about 11 percent of students receiving financial aid. This thoughtful balance of affordability, academic rigor, and spiritual formation reflects the school’s enduring mission.
Heritage Preparatory School continues to stand out in Atlanta as a community where classical learning, Christian faith, and character development intersect to prepare students for both academic success and lives of purpose.
Cliff Valley School
Cliff Valley School is a respected independent, non-sectarian private school located on Clairmont Road in Northeast Atlanta’s Briarcliff Heights community. Serving children from age 3 through 8th grade, the school is home to about 431 students representing nearly 300 families.
At the heart of Cliff Valley’s mission are the values of Respect, Responsibility, and Resourcefulness. These principles shape the school’s culture, guiding students to grow not only academically but also socially and emotionally within a supportive community.
The school’s campus reflects its forward-thinking approach. Spread across 6.8 acres, the 47,000-square-foot facility was thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind. From rooftop gardens to a 58.9 kW solar panel system, the campus has earned EarthCraft certification, making it one of the most eco-friendly school environments in Metro Atlanta.
Cliff Valley prides itself on its nurturing learning environment, with a student–teacher ratio of about 6:1. Each classroom benefits from two co-lead teachers, and the school employs more than 80 faculty and staff, most of whom hold advanced degrees. This commitment to professional excellence is reflected in an impressive 95% teacher retention rate.
Academically, the school follows a research-based curriculum tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Beyond core academics, students enjoy daily enrichment in areas such as art, music, Spanish, physical education, and hands-on outdoor learning, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Athletics and extracurricular opportunities also play a vital role in the Cliff Valley experience. Younger children participate in intramural sports, while middle schoolers compete in basketball, soccer, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and flag football. Students can also explore after-school clubs like robotics, chess, and drama, with built-in homework support included at no extra cost.
Graduates of Cliff Valley School are well-prepared for the next stage of their academic journey. Many go on to prestigious high schools such as Westminster, Paideia, Galloway, Marist, and North Atlanta, before continuing to top universities including Georgia Tech, Emory, Stanford, Duke, NYU, and UCLA.
In summary, Cliff Valley School blends academic rigor with a nurturing, values-based approach, all within a sustainable and thoughtfully designed campus. Its strong emphasis on community, enrichment, and preparation for future success makes it one of Atlanta’s standout independent schools.
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