5 private schools in Tennessee worth considering for your child's future

Tennessee’s education scene is standing out this year with a strong lineup of schools excelling in academics, community involvement, and student development. The 2025 Niche rankings, which combine official data from the US Department of Education with feedback from students and parents, reveal a well-rounded picture of the state’s top K-12 schools. These rankings take into account key measures such as academic results, graduation rates, teacher quality, class sizes, and the overall environment, highlighting the schools that are truly making a difference in their communities and shaping the future for their students.

Lausanne Collegiate School , Memphis
Holding the distinction as Tennessee’s 1st best private high school, Lausanne Collegiate School serves approximately 890 students across grades PK–12. With a low student-teacher ratio of 6:1, it offers personalized instruction and a consistently high A+ Niche grade. The school is celebrated for fostering a supportive and nurturing community, preparing students thoroughly for college while encouraging holistic growth.


University School of Nashville , Nashville
Ranked 2nd among private high schools statewide, University School of Nashville educates about 1,076 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Its 9:1 student-teacher ratio supports strong faculty engagement and a challenging curriculum. The school is well-regarded for its inclusive culture and solid reputation in preparing students for college and life beyond.


St. Mary’s Episcopal School , Memphis
As the 3rd best private high school in Tennessee, St. Mary’s Episcopal serves 785 students with an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. The institution combines rigorous academics with character-building programs, maintaining an A+ grade on Niche. Parents and students alike praise its welcoming atmosphere and breadth of opportunities.


McCallie School , Chattanooga
An all-boys school serving grades 6–12, McCallie ranks the 4th on the private high school list. The 992-student institution offers a 7:1 student-teacher ratio, emphasizing academic rigor and community values. Alumni commonly cite transformative personal and intellectual growth during their time here.


Montgomery Bell Academy , Nashville

Ranked 5th best private high school, Montgomery Bell Academy educates approximately 850 boys (grades 7–12) with an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. The school is noted for its rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and fostering a close-knit brotherhood culture.