Best Independent Schools in San Mateo Area 2025 Winners

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Top Independent Schools in the San Mateo Area

Each year, the Best of San Mateo contest honors the most highly rated independent and private schools, as voted by local families and educators. These schools are recognized for academic excellence, personalized learning, strong community values, and well-rounded student development. Whether you’re seeking a preschool, K–8 program, or college preparatory high school, these top independent schools provide exceptional education in a supportive, student-focused environment.

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  • 2025 Winner:
    Best Children and Youth Businesses

    The Avalon Academy

    The Avalon Academy in Redwood City provides outstanding educational support for children with movement disorders such as cerebral palsy. Through its interdisciplinary program combining academics, motor skills, and communication, Avalon creates a nurturing and inclusive environment. A parent shared, 'Avalon is family… enabling our children to fulfill their maximum personal potential.' This commitment to personalized, holistic education helps each student thrive and grow at their own pace.

    630 N San Mateo Dr
    San Mateo, California 94401
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    2025 Top 5:
    Best Children and Youth Businesses

    Notre Dame de Namur University

    Member: San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce
    Featured
    Phone: (650) 508-3500
    Website

    Founded in 1851, NDNU is a WSCUC accredited, private, Catholic, coeducational master’s and undergraduate degree completion university, located on the San Francisco Peninsula in Silicon Valley, NDNU broadens the perspective and outlook of its students by exposing them to peers with diverse backgrounds, cultures and world views.

    1500 Ralston Ave
    Belmont, California 94002
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Children and Youth Businesses

    St. Timothy Catholic School

    Serving San Mateo since 1961, St. Timothy Catholic School offers a vibrant K-8 education rooted in Gospel values and academic excellence. The school emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and community, developing students into Loving Christians, Innovative Learners, and Thoughtful Communicators. Families value the inclusive environment and caring faculty. With strong moral and academic foundations, St. Timothy supports students in reaching their full potential in a faith-based, nurturing setting.

    1515 Dolan Ave
    San Mateo, California 94401
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Children and Youth Businesses

    Serendipity School

    Member: San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce

    Serendipity School in Belmont provides a K-5 education focused on academic excellence, creativity, and character. With a 7:1 student-teacher ratio, students receive individual attention in a nurturing environment. Parents praise its warm, engaging atmosphere and commitment to social-emotional development. One parent noted, 'It's a warm atmosphere that encourages kindness and engagement.' Serendipity's focus on building confidence and a love of learning prepares students for lasting academic and personal success.

    2820 Ponce Ave
    Belmont, California 94002
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Children and Youth Businesses

    Junipero Serra High School

    Member: San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce

    Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo is a Catholic college preparatory school for young men, known for academic excellence and leadership development. Offering a rigorous curriculum and vibrant extracurriculars, the school fosters spiritual growth and service. One alumnus shared, 'Serra instilled in me the values of leadership and service.' With a strong community and proud tradition, Serra helps shape future men of faith, wisdom, and compassion.

    451 W 20th Ave
    San Mateo, California 94403

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Independent & Private Schools in San Mateo

The San Mateo Area is home to a wide range of outstanding independent schools, each offering a unique approach to education grounded in high academic standards and strong student-teacher relationships. These top-rated schools serve families looking for an enriching alternative to traditional public education.

Preschool to High School: Many independent schools offer programs that span early childhood through high school, allowing for consistent academic and social growth.

College Preparatory Programs: Top schools provide rigorous academics, AP or honors courses, and college counseling to prepare students for higher education.

Small Class Sizes: Independent schools often maintain low student-to-teacher ratios, enabling personalized attention and differentiated instruction.

Focus on the Whole Child: Emphasis is placed not only on academics, but also on character development, leadership, creativity, and social responsibility.

Specialized Curriculum: Schools may offer STEM programs, arts integration, project-based learning, language immersion, or unique educational philosophies like Montessori or Waldorf.

Community & Values: Many independent schools cultivate tight-knit communities with shared values, diverse student bodies, and active family involvement.

Explore the Best Independent Schools in the San Mateo Area, as voted by local parents and educators in the Best of San Mateo contest—and find the school that fits your child’s learning style and your family’s values.