Tennessee provides a wide range of highly ranked private schools, offering families diverse educational options across the state. These schools span urban settings, suburban neighborhoods, and historic campuses, each known for their academic rigor, extracurricular programs, and strong community involvement.
Niche.com, a platform that provides rankings, reviews, and insights based on data such as academic performance, student outcomes, and school culture, has compiled a list of the top private schools in Tennessee.
Their rankings are derived from a careful analysis of factors like academic achievement, faculty quality, and campus amenities, offering a detailed guide to the best private education options for families in the state.
1. Lausanne Collegiate School
Lausanne Collegiate School, located in Memphis, is often recognized as one of the top private schools in Tennessee. Known for its strong academic curriculum and a commitment to global education, Lausanne serves students from preschool through high school. The school emphasizes a liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, and community service through student-centered teaching. Lausanne is an excellent choice for families seeking a high-quality education.
2. University School of Nashville
University School of Nashville (USN) is one of the most prestigious private schools in Middle Tennessee, offering an academically challenging environment for students from preschool to 12th grade. The school is known to provide an amazing education, with a commitment to preparing students not only for college but for life. USN prides itself on their commitment to each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential. Its beautiful campus, innovative teaching methods, and emphasis on leadership make it a top choice for Nashville families.
3. St. Mary’s Episcopal School
St. Mary’s Episcopal School is a private all-girls school in Memphis that has been providing an exceptional education for over 150 years. The school offers a comprehensive academic program from preschool through high school, with a focus on leadership, creativity, and critical thinking. St. Mary’s is recognized for its strong arts and STEM programs, and its empowering environment encourages young women to become leaders in their communities. The school’s sense of tradition and commitment to excellence makes it one of the top-rated schools in the state.
4. McCallie School
McCallie School in Chattanooga is one of the top boys’ private schools in the Southeast. Known for its excellent academics, strong athletic programs, and commitment to character development, the school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory education for students in grades 6 through 12. The beautiful 200-acre campus, its history of success in academics and sports, and its emphasis on developing young men’s social-emotional skills make it a premier choice for families in Chattanooga. McCallie’s challenging academic curriculum and supportive environment provide students with a foundation for future success.
5. Montgomery Bell Academy
Montgomery Bell Academy (MBA) is an elite all-boys private school in Nashville, praised for its academic programs, exceptional athletic teams, and commitment to character education. The school has a long-standing tradition of excellence, both in the classroom and on the field. MBA is known for its high academic standards and its focus on developing leadership skills, offering students numerous opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities ranging from the arts to athletics. MBA’s impressive alumni network and college acceptance rates make it a standout option for Nashville families.
