10 private high schools in Ohio parents should know about in 2025
As families in Ohio continue to weigh the benefits of private education, new rankings from Niche for 2025 shed light on schools that consistently deliver strong academic outcomes while also focusing on student well-being, faculty engagement, and a culture of learning. These top 10 schools, spread across the state, are recognised not just for test scores or college admissions, but for the depth and quality of the student experience.Below, we take a closer look at each school and what contributes to its high standing.
University School, Hunting Valley
Ranked first in the state, University School has built a reputation for academic rigour and a structured focus on leadership. Serving boys from pre-kindergarten through grade 12, it maintains a student-teacher ratio of 7:1. The school’s curriculum leans heavily into STEM and experiential learning, with programs designed to develop both intellectual and personal growth. Its all-boys environment is shaped around mentorship and responsibility.
Western Reserve Academy, Hudson
This historic boarding and day school serves high school students and is known for its supportive culture and passionate faculty. With an enrollment of just over 400, Western Reserve Academy offers a 7:1 student-teacher ratio and a tight-knit academic community. Its strength lies in balancing academic excellence with student-led activities and close faculty guidance, giving students both structure and independence.
The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati
Serving over 1,000 students across all grade levels, Seven Hills stands out for its variety of academic paths and extracurricular options. Despite its size, the school maintains a 5:1 student-teacher ratio—among the lowest on the list. The environment encourages curiosity and exploration, making it a good fit for students who thrive on academic variety and teacher mentorship.
Columbus Academy, Gahanna
Columbus Academy educates students from early childhood through grade 12 and has consistently been recognised for its blend of traditional academics and innovative learning. With around 1,150 students and a 7:1 student-teacher ratio, the school emphasises collaboration, critical thinking, and project-based instruction. Families frequently point to the school’s welcoming environment and student-centered approach as key strengths.
Cincinnati Country Day School, Cincinnati
Cincinnati Country Day has positioned itself as a school that values both high expectations and emotional support. With 855 students and a 9:1 student-teacher ratio, it offers a challenging academic curriculum paired with strong counseling and extracurricular options. Students are encouraged to take academic risks in a setting where teachers know them well.
Hawken School, Gates Mills
Known for its hands-on, experiential learning model, Hawken serves over 1,000 students from preschool through grade 12. It offers a 5:1 student-teacher ratio and promotes real-world application of knowledge through community-based programs and internships. Hawken appeals to families looking for a more forward-thinking approach to education.
Hathaway Brown School, Shaker Heights
Hathaway Brown is the highest-ranked all-girls private school in Ohio, educating students from early childhood through high school. With a 6:1 student-teacher ratio and enrolment around 740, the school is praised for its emphasis on intellectual curiosity and leadership development for girls. Its research programs and advanced coursework are particularly notable.
Laurel School, Shaker Heights
Also an all-girls institution, Laurel emphasises both academic challenge and emotional development. With around 590 students and a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, the school fosters strong student-teacher relationships. It is known for its advisory system and mentorship culture, which encourage self-reflection and resilience.
The Miami Valley School, Dayton
With fewer than 500 students, Miami Valley offers a close-knit school experience from preschool through grade 12. The 6:1 student-teacher ratio allows for more individualised attention, and the school is widely recognized for its emphasis on building student-teacher trust. Students often report feeling known and supported, both academically and personally.
The Wellington School, Columbus
Wellington rounds out the top 10 with an enrolment of around 750 students and a 7:1 student-teacher ratio. Located in the state capital, it offers a broad liberal arts education with a focus on developing students’ unique interests. The school is often praised for its efforts to build a lasting sense of community and civic responsibility among its students.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.
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