St. Louis is a city with many private high schools that boast a long history. These schools, operated by religious or independent foundations, are known for their rigorous academic standards, rich extracurricular activities, and strong college preparatory support, making them a popular choice for many families. This article introduces three private high schools in the St. Louis area that stand out in terms of academic achievement and tradition.

The first school to be introduced is John Burroughs School. Located in the Ladue area, this school is one of the most prestigious non-religious independent high schools in St. Louis and is highly regarded across the United States. It offers a curriculum from kindergarten through 12th grade, but its high school program is particularly well-known. The student body is approximately 630, maintaining a small size, with a teacher-to-student ratio of about 1 to 7, allowing for personalized instruction.

John Burroughs School is characterized by its development of unique advanced courses instead of AP subjects. It emphasizes inquiry-based learning and critical thinking over standardized test scores, with classes conducted in a way that encourages active participation and discussion among students. 100% of graduates go on to four-year colleges, with many gaining admission to top universities such as Ivy League schools, MIT, and Stanford each year. Annual tuition ranges from about $32,000 to $35,000, and a scholarship program is available to ensure that outstanding students can apply regardless of their financial situation.

The arts and athletics programs are also very robust. The school provides professional-level education in theater, visual arts, and music, and its theater productions are highly regarded in the community. Various sports teams, including basketball, tennis, swimming, and lacrosse, compete in local independent school league events, fostering a school culture that values a balance between athletics and academics.

The second school is Saint Louis University High School (abbreviated as SLUH), known as the largest all-boys Catholic high school in Missouri. Located west of downtown St. Louis, this school is operated by the Jesuits and was established in 1818, making it a historic educational institution. Under the Jesuit educational philosophy of 'Men for Others,' it aims for academic excellence, a spirit of service, and leadership development.

SLUH has approximately 1,000 students and offers more than 25 AP courses. The average ACT score at the school is significantly higher than the state public school average, and over 98% of graduates go on to college. Annual tuition is around $18,000 to $20,000, making it relatively accessible compared to other prestigious private schools. Non-Catholic students are also welcome to apply, and students from diverse religious backgrounds are enrolled.

SLUH also excels in sports. Teams in football, water polo, swimming, and cross country have multiple championships in Missouri state competitions, and there is a well-established support system for students balancing sports and academics. Community service is also a vital part of the school's education, with students required to participate in local service projects during their time at the school.

The third school is Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School (MICDS), located near Maryville University. This coeducational independent school operates in the Ladue and Clayton areas and offers a consistent curriculum from kindergarten through 12th grade, with about 500 students in the high school program. MICDS is one of the oldest independent schools in St. Louis, formed by the merger of Mary Institute (established in 1859) and St. Louis Country Day School (established in 1917).

MICDS's curriculum seeks to achieve both academic rigor and individual student growth. It offers more than 20 AP courses alongside its own advanced programs, with strengths in STEM education and global studies. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art science laboratories and Maker Space facilities to support students' creative project activities. Annual tuition ranges from about $30,000 to $33,000, and approximately 20% of students receive financial aid through need-based scholarship programs.

When considering private high schools in the St. Louis area, it is important to review not only tuition but also commuting distance, the school's educational philosophy, your child's interests and inclinations, and college aspirations. Most private schools offer campus tours and open house events for prospective students, so it is recommended to experience the school atmosphere firsthand. For schools with competitive admissions, it is common to start preparing applications in the fall of 8th grade.