Hello friends welcome to the Tigerjek, if you want to know about the Best Schools in Columbia, then you are at right place in Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family, and Columbia offers a wide range of exceptional educational opportunities. Known for its strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environments, the city is home to schools that consistently rank among the best in the region.
Whether you’re looking for top-rated public institutions, prestigious private academies, or innovative charter schools, Columbia provides families with excellent options to help every child succeed. In this guide, we highlight some of the best schools in Columbia to help you make an informed choice for your child’s future.
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Etna Elementary School | Best Schools in Columbia
Etna Elementary School, part of the Southwest Licking Local School District, is located at 8500 Columbia Road SW in Pataskala, Ohio. Serving primarily grades K–3, the school is dedicated to building a strong foundation for young learners through a safe, supportive, and engaging environment.
The school follows the “Warrior Way” philosophy, which emphasizes responsible citizenship, respect, and community values. With an enrollment of nearly 500 students, Etna Elementary provides a close-knit learning atmosphere where children are encouraged to thrive academically and personally.
Etna consistently earns positive recognition for its performance. According to Niche, the school holds an overall grade of B+, with strong marks in academics, diversity, and teaching quality. Reading proficiency averages around 72–75%, while math proficiency is in the 71–77% range. GreatSchools gives Etna an impressive 8 out of 10 rating, reflecting its commitment to academic growth and equity.
Leadership plays a central role in the school’s success. Principal Travis Smith and Assistant Principal Chelsea Brown foster an environment that is both nurturing and challenging, encouraging family involvement and ensuring that every child feels supported.
In short, Etna Elementary is more than just a school—it’s a community where students, staff, and families work together to help children grow into responsible, confident learners.
North Columbus Preparatory Academy
North Columbus Preparatory Academy (NCPA) is a tuition-free, public charter school located at 1965 Gladstone Avenue in Columbus, Ohio, within the South Linden neighborhood. The school serves students in kindergarten through eighth grade, with enrollment ranging between 144 and 198 students.
While NCPA faces academic challenges, performance data provides valuable context. According to U.S. News, only 3% of students reach proficiency in math and 8% in reading, compared to state averages of 51% and 57% respectively. Public School Review reports similar results, placing the school in the bottom half of Ohio schools statewide. On Niche, NCPA holds an overall grade of D–, with proficiency levels around 5% in math and 8% in reading, along with a relatively high student–teacher ratio of 29:1.
Despite these academic struggles, NCPA is committed to fostering growth and resilience. Operated by ACCEL Schools and sponsored by St. Aloysius Orphanage, the school emphasizes strong academic expectations and positive behavior, aiming to develop critical thinkers and lifelong learners in a safe, caring environment. The school is led by Principal Ernest White, who brings expertise in counseling and at-risk student support.
NCPA is Cognia-accredited and offers a well-rounded curriculum that includes core subjects—English language arts, math, science, and social studies—along with art, physical education, and daily social-emotional lessons through the Be Good People program. Technology plays a central role in classrooms, with Smartboards and Chromebooks integrated into instruction.
Beyond academics, the school provides extensive support services to meet student and family needs. These include free breakfast and lunch, transportation, on-site counseling, and after-school programs such as We Are Linden’s Great Minds Academy. Families also benefit from community partnerships that provide backpacks, weekend meal bags, tutoring, mental health counseling, and early childhood resources.
In summary, North Columbus Preparatory Academy is more than just a school—it is a community hub that places strong emphasis on social-emotional learning, student support, and family engagement. While academic performance remains an area for growth, its focus on whole-child development and wraparound services reflects a deep commitment to its students and their future success.
Cesar Chavez College Preparatory School
Cesar Chavez College Preparatory School is a public charter elementary school located at 2400 Mock Road in the Brittany Hills neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. The campus features a welcoming, tree-lined setting with a large playground and an outdoor community garden, creating a vibrant environment for students to learn and grow.
The school serves children from kindergarten through fifth grade and enrolls around 320 students. Its student body is highly diverse, with the majority identifying as Black, followed by Hispanic/Latino students, and smaller percentages of White and Multiracial students.
Academically, Cesar Chavez faces some challenges but also shows signs of progress. Roughly 47% of students are proficient in math and 42% in reading, slightly below state averages. However, the school recently earned a strong 4.5 overall rating on Ohio’s Report Card, including the highest possible marks in Gap Closing and Progress, reflecting significant growth. On Niche, the school holds an overall grade of C–, with teachers receiving slightly higher ratings. Class sizes remain larger than average, with a student-to-teacher ratio ranging from 26:1 to 32:1, compared to the state average of 16:1.
Cesar Chavez offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes English language arts and math, supported by research-based teaching strategies. Students also benefit from the unique addition of a community garden, which enhances their learning experience. Family engagement is a core value, and the school actively works to foster strong parent-school relationships.
In terms of student support, all children receive free breakfast and lunch through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). The school also organizes culturally relevant field trips and provides a safe, supportive environment for every learner. Recent campus upgrades—including new flooring, modern LED lighting, and refreshed wall treatments—have further improved the learning atmosphere.
Cesar Chavez operates under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Robert Stephens and Superintendent Dr. Estella Stephens. Guided by its mission to “make a World of Difference,” the school is dedicated to academic growth and building strong, nurturing relationships between students, families, and educators.
Cesar Chavez College Preparatory School
Cesar Chavez College Preparatory School is a public charter elementary school located at 2400 Mock Road in the Brittany Hills neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. The campus features a welcoming, tree-lined setting with a large playground and an outdoor community garden, creating a vibrant environment for students to learn and grow.
The school serves children from kindergarten through fifth grade and enrolls around 320 students. Its student body is highly diverse, with the majority identifying as Black, followed by Hispanic/Latino students, and smaller percentages of White and Multiracial students.
Academically, Cesar Chavez faces some challenges but also shows signs of progress. Roughly 47% of students are proficient in math and 42% in reading, slightly below state averages. However, the school recently earned a strong 4.5 overall rating on Ohio’s Report Card, including the highest possible marks in Gap Closing and Progress, reflecting significant growth. On Niche, the school holds an overall grade of C–, with teachers receiving slightly higher ratings. Class sizes remain larger than average, with a student-to-teacher ratio ranging from 26:1 to 32:1, compared to the state average of 16:1.
Cesar Chavez offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes English language arts and math, supported by research-based teaching strategies. Students also benefit from the unique addition of a community garden, which enhances their learning experience. Family engagement is a core value, and the school actively works to foster strong parent-school relationships.
In terms of student support, all children receive free breakfast and lunch through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). The school also organizes culturally relevant field trips and provides a safe, supportive environment for every learner. Recent campus upgrades—including new flooring, modern LED lighting, and refreshed wall treatments—have further improved the learning atmosphere.
Cesar Chavez operates under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Robert Stephens and Superintendent Dr. Estella Stephens. Guided by its mission to “make a World of Difference,” the school is dedicated to academic growth and building strong, nurturing relationships between students, families, and educators.
Park Street Intermediate School
Park Street Intermediate School, located in Grove City, Ohio, serves grades 5 and 6 as part of the South-Western City School District. The school has an enrollment of about 696 students and operates on a suburban campus with a traditional school setting. Families can reach the main office at (614) 801-8800.
Academically, the school performs close to state averages. About 51% of students meet or exceed proficiency in math, compared to the Ohio average of 52%, while 59% reach proficiency in reading, just below the state average of 60%. Compared to the district overall, Park Street students perform slightly better, though the school ranks in the bottom 50% of schools statewide.
The student–teacher ratio is about 20:1, higher than the Ohio average of 17:1. Roughly 32% of students come from minority backgrounds, slightly below the state average, with Hispanic and Black students making up the largest groups.
Families and community members generally view Park Street Intermediate positively. On GreatSchools, it holds a 7 out of 10 rating, with parents praising the professionalism of the staff, the welcoming environment, and the modern facilities. The Chamber of Commerce lists the school with a 4.2-star rating from local reviewers.
The school emphasizes collaboration with families and the community to help students reach their full potential. Guided by its vision, “Learning Together, Achieving Together,” Park Street fosters a respectful and supportive environment focused on both academic achievement and personal growth.
Global Town School
Global Town School (GTS) is an innovative online private school that serves students in grades 6 through 12. Established by a team of educators, academics, and entrepreneurs, the school was designed to move beyond the limitations of traditional education by creating a highly personalized and immersive learning experience. At its heart, GTS integrates cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and metaverse platforms to make learning flexible, engaging, and future-ready.
Students at GTS have multiple enrollment options to fit their needs, including full-time, part-time, and single-course pathways. Those enrolled full-time benefit from a comprehensive academic program that includes dual-credit college courses and a unique success coaching model. The Dual Diploma Program also allows international students to earn an American high school diploma without leaving their home country.
A defining feature of the school is its success coaching program, which pairs each student with a dedicated coach. These coaches provide individualized support that extends beyond academics—helping students set goals, build confidence, and prepare for college admissions. The school’s metaverse campus further enhances the experience, allowing students to collaborate in virtual classrooms, explore digital labs, and participate in interactive projects that bring concepts to life.
Flexibility is one of GTS’s greatest strengths, making it especially appealing to students with busy schedules, such as athletes, performers, and entrepreneurs. Gifted learners can accelerate their coursework, while homeschoolers and international students have access to a wide range of accredited options, including ESL support and dual-enrollment opportunities.
The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and college-preparatory, offering AP courses, accelerated studies, and a variety of electives. Beyond academics, GTS provides extracurricular opportunities such as summer camps and workshops hosted both virtually and on college campuses, ensuring students remain socially connected and well-rounded.
According to Niche, Global Town School combines strong academics with flexible scheduling and advanced technologies, while maintaining a focus on student growth through its digital portfolio system and virtual campus. Tuition averages around $16,000 per year, though financial aid is widely available—about 70% of students receive support, with aid averaging $4,000 annually.
The school’s mission is to create immersive, personalized learning experiences that prepare students to thrive in a rapidly evolving, innovation-driven world. Its vision centers on using advanced technology to build flexible, engaging education while ensuring that meaningful human connection remains at the core of the student experience.
The Goddard School of Canal Winchester
The Goddard School of Canal Winchester is a private preschool that has become a trusted choice for families seeking high-quality early childhood education. Located at 6405 Canal Street in Canal Winchester, Ohio, the school provides programs for children from infancy through pre-kindergarten, blending care, play, and academics in a nurturing environment.
Each day, children are welcomed into bright, thoughtfully designed classrooms where learning feels both exciting and natural. The school follows the Wonder of Learning® curriculum, which focuses on sparking curiosity and helping each child grow at their own pace. Teachers craft personalized lesson plans and use hands-on activities to make learning engaging, whether it’s exploring STEAM concepts, practicing yoga, or creating art projects.
Parents often praise the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Many describe the staff as caring and professional, noting that the director and teachers treat students like family. Enrichment activities such as music, dance, engineering, chess, and even mindfulness sessions give children opportunities to explore their interests while developing important skills.
Beyond academics, the school places strong emphasis on health, safety, and well-being. The facility is equipped with modern safety features, while nutritious meals and snacks support healthy development. Families also benefit from flexible options like before- and after-school care, summer camps, and even a private kindergarten program to prepare children for future success.
Over the years, the Goddard School of Canal Winchester has earned recognition in the community, including local awards that reflect its commitment to quality and family satisfaction. With its blend of innovation, care, and community focus, the school stands out as a place where young learners can thrive.
The Goddard School of Dublin
The Goddard School of Dublin is a well-regarded private preschool that serves families in the Dublin, Ohio, area. Located on Perimeter Drive, the school welcomes children from infancy through pre-kindergarten, offering programs that blend academic preparation with nurturing care. It operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., making it a convenient choice for working parents.
Accredited by NAEYC, the school follows the Wonder of Learning® curriculum, which emphasizes curiosity, discovery, and whole-child development. Each classroom is designed with age-appropriate learning in mind, providing children with opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Beyond the core program, children participate in enrichment activities such as American Sign Language, art history, world cultures, yoga, and physical fitness, ensuring a well-rounded early education.
The Dublin campus also features thoughtfully designed playgrounds that meet rigorous safety standards and are ADA-compliant, along with a spacious indoor gym for sports, yoga, and creative play. Families appreciate the added support of before- and after-school care, as well as transportation options.
Parents consistently describe the school as warm and welcoming, praising its dedicated teachers, clean environment, and open communication. Many note that the staff truly takes an interest in each child’s growth and well-being, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere where children can thrive.
Primrose School of Reynoldsburg
The Primrose School of Reynoldsburg is a trusted early learning center that has become a go-to choice for families in the Columbus and Reynoldsburg area. Located on North Brice Road, the school welcomes children from infancy through transitional kindergarten, offering a nurturing and educational environment designed to support every stage of early childhood development.
Part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network, it follows the Balanced Learning® curriculum, which combines purposeful play with teacher-guided lessons. Children are encouraged to explore, create, and grow while building strong foundations in academics, social skills, and character development.
Parents appreciate the school’s convenient hours, running from early morning to evening, which make it especially helpful for working families. With small class sizes and a student–teacher ratio that allows for personal attention, children receive the care and guidance they need to thrive.
Families who choose the Primrose School of Reynoldsburg often highlight the supportive atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and consistent communication. Many parents note that their children have not only grown academically but have also developed confidence, kindness, and curiosity during their time at the school.
The Goddard School of Pickerington
The Goddard School of Pickerington has built a strong reputation in the community as a trusted early childhood learning center. Located on Stonecreek Drive NW, the school provides care and education for children from infancy through private kindergarten, with a focus on creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where every child can thrive. Families appreciate the school’s commitment to balancing joyful learning with academic readiness, ensuring children are well-prepared for the next stage of their education.
The school follows the Wonder of Learning™ curriculum, which emphasizes curiosity, creativity, and whole-child development through play-based and inquiry-driven experiences. Beyond the classroom, children have access to enrichment activities such as American Sign Language, music, yoga, mindfulness, robotics, and even chess—programs designed to nurture both intellectual and personal growth. Seasonal offerings, like summer camps, further add to the variety of experiences available.
The facilities are thoughtfully designed, with bright classrooms, a multipurpose indoor gym, and safe, ADA-compliant outdoor playgrounds that encourage active play. Leadership at the school is deeply invested in children’s success. Owner Ms. Sarah, who began her journey as a teacher in 2009, leads a team of dedicated educators alongside the Director of Education, Ms. Ashley, and the Director of Operations, Ms. Andrea. Together, they bring both professional expertise and a genuine love for working with children.
Parents often highlight the caring staff, strong communication, and the way their children look forward to school each day. Reviews frequently mention the welcoming atmosphere, the variety of engaging activities, and the reassurance of knowing their children are safe, happy, and learning. Licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, The Goddard School of Pickerington also offers before- and after-school care, as well as a private kindergarten program.