For relocating families considering Boise, Idaho as their new home, selecting the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With 35 private schools serving over 4,800 students in the Boise area, families have excellent options beyond the public school system. Private schools in Boise account for 12% of all K-12 enrollment, well above Idaho’s state average of 6%, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to educational choice. Whether you’re seeking a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, faith-based education, Montessori methodology, or specialized programs, Boise’s diverse private school landscape offers something for every family.
This comprehensive guide covers the best private schools in Boise, including top-rated institutions, tuition costs, enrollment information, and what makes each school unique. Whether you’re moving to the North End, West Boise, or the growing Treasure Valley communities, you’ll find a detailed overview to help guide your decision.
Top-Ranked College Preparatory Schools
Riverstone International School
Riverstone International School stands out as Boise’s premier international school and the first International Baccalaureate World School in Idaho. Located on a beautiful 14-acre campus nestled between the Boise River and the Greenbelt in Southeast Boise, Riverstone serves preschool through grade 12 with both day and boarding options.
The school enrolls approximately 400 students representing 45 different countries, creating a truly global learning community. Riverstone’s rigorous IB curriculum prepares students for success at top universities worldwide. The school offers a comprehensive range of programs including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). With small class sizes and personalized attention, Riverstone emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and global citizenship.
Tuition at Riverstone is approximately $24,600 annually, reflecting the school’s premium international programs and resources. The school’s location near the Boise Foothills and Greenbelt provides unique outdoor learning opportunities and easy access to nature-based education.
Bishop Kelly High School
Founded in 1964, Bishop Kelly High School is one of Boise’s most established and respected private institutions. The school educates approximately 800 students in grades 9-12 within a Catholic framework that emphasizes the development of the whole person—spirit, mind, and body.
With over 65 faculty and staff members, Bishop Kelly maintains strong academic standards while fostering spiritual growth and character development. The school’s Catholic values inform its educational mission, creating a supportive community for students seeking faith-based education combined with rigorous academics. Bishop Kelly is consistently ranked among the top private high schools in Boise and the broader Idaho region.
Tuition at Bishop Kelly is approximately $8,525 annually, making it an affordable option for Catholic families seeking high-quality education. The school’s West Boise location provides convenient access to the wider community.
Cole Valley Christian School
Cole Valley Christian School serves 513 students in grades 7-12 across middle and high school divisions. Located in West Boise, the school offers a classical Christian education rooted in faith and academic excellence. The school’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, biblical worldview integration, and preparation for college success.
Cole Valley maintains lower tuition costs compared to many Boise private schools, with rates around $9,940 to $10,660 annually depending on grade level. The school also offers a 10% tuition discount for each additional student in the same family, making multi-child enrollment more affordable. Tuition aid is available, with awards up to 50% of tuition based on demonstrated need.
Independent and Progressive Schools
Foothills School of Arts & Sciences
Foothills School of Arts & Sciences holds the distinction of being the oldest independent school in the Treasure Valley. Serving Pre-K through 9th grade with approximately 156 students, Foothills maintains an impressive 9:1 student-teacher ratio that allows for highly personalized education.
The school’s focus on arts and sciences creates a unique approach to learning that appeals to creative and intellectually curious students. Foothills’ smaller size and progressive philosophy attract families seeking an alternative to traditional educational models. The caring, inclusive learning community emphasizes both academic rigor and artistic expression.
At approximately $17,592 annually, Foothills’ tuition is higher than average for Boise, reflecting the school’s specialized programs, small class sizes, and resources dedicated to arts education. For families valuing artistic development alongside traditional academics, Foothills offers excellent value.
The Ambrose School
The Ambrose School is a classical Christian school with a significant presence in the Treasure Valley, operating three campuses: The Locust Grove Campus, The Bridge Campus, and The North Campus. The school serves over 900 students in grades K-12, making it one of the larger classical Christian options in the region.
The Ambrose School’s classical approach to education emphasizes the Great Books, Socratic discussion, and a Christian worldview. Tuition ranges from approximately $3,120 for half-day kindergarten to $9,310 for high school, making it one of the more affordable private school options in Boise. The multi-campus model allows families to choose a location convenient to their home while maintaining consistent curriculum and philosophy across all sites.
Catholic Schools in Boise
St. Joseph’s Catholic School
St. Joseph’s Catholic School serves 360 students in grades K-8, making it one of the larger Catholic elementary schools in Boise. The school maintains a strong academic program within a Catholic faith environment, with a student-teacher ratio of 11:1.
Tuition at St. Joseph’s is approximately $6,800 for upper grades, representing one of the most affordable private school options in Boise. For Catholic families seeking faith-based education at reasonable costs, St. Joseph’s provides excellent value and strong academic performance.
Sacred Heart Catholic School
Sacred Heart Catholic School serves PreK through 8th grade with approximately 224 students and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. The school emphasizes Catholic values integrated throughout the curriculum, creating a faith-centered learning environment.
Tuition at Sacred Heart is approximately $45,000 annually, reflecting a premium positioning within Boise’s private school market. This higher tuition typically correlates with smaller class sizes, specialized programs, and comprehensive resources. Sacred Heart appeals to families prioritizing Catholic education and seeking a more exclusive school community.
Key Considerations for Relocating Families
Cost and Financial Aid
Average tuition across Boise private schools is approximately $15,675, though costs vary significantly. Budget-conscious families have options ranging from $6,800 at St. Joseph’s to $24,600 at Riverstone International. Many schools offer tuition assistance based on demonstrated financial need. When evaluating cost, consider that tuition alone doesn’t reflect total expenses—factor in uniforms, materials, activities, and potential transportation costs.
Location and Neighborhoods
Boise’s private schools are distributed across several neighborhoods. Riverstone International occupies its own unique Southeast Boise location near the Greenbelt, providing a distinctive campus environment. Boise best neighborhoods offer walkable access for families living in popular residential areas. West Boise schools like Bishop Kelly and Cole Valley serve families in established west-side neighborhoods. Consider school location relative to your home, workplace, and family’s commute patterns when making your decision.
Curriculum and Philosophy
Boise’s private schools encompass diverse educational philosophies. Classical Christian schools emphasize traditional curricula and faith integration. International schools like Riverstone focus on global perspectives and advanced coursework. Progressive schools emphasize student-centered learning and artistic development. Catholic schools integrate faith throughout the curriculum. Examine each school’s philosophy carefully to ensure alignment with your family’s educational values.
Enrollment and Admissions
Popular schools like Riverstone International and Bishop Kelly may have limited enrollment spaces, particularly in upper grades. Plan ahead and contact schools early in the year regarding admissions timelines and availability. Many schools require entrance testing, interviews, or previous academic records. Application deadlines often occur in winter for the following fall, so timing is critical for relocating families.
Additional Resources for School Research
As you evaluate Boise home prices by neighborhood, supplement this guide with school websites, campus tours, and conversations with current families. Most schools offer open houses and campus visits that provide valuable firsthand experience. Connect with local parent groups and online communities to gather insights from families with experience at these institutions.
Conclusion
Choosing a private school for your family is a significant decision that deserves careful consideration. Boise’s diverse range of private schools—from international programs to classical Christian education to progressive learning communities—ensures that relocating families can find an excellent fit. Whether you prioritize rigorous academics, faith-based values, small class sizes, or specialized programs, Boise has outstanding free things to do in Boise.
Start your research early, visit campuses, connect with current families, and evaluate how each school’s mission, curriculum, location, and cost align with your family’s needs and values. The investment in finding the right school pays dividends throughout your child’s educational journey.