December 10, 2021

A Universe of Education

The Top Public AND Private Institutions in the Portland, OR Area

Amidst the years of educational evolution, the Pacific Northwest has become a centralized hub of wealthy knowledge and activism for a revolutionized approach to schooling. One of their more popular focal locations exemplary of this movement is Portland, Oregon!

Portland has proven to be more on the progressive side. They prioritize a positive relationship with nature, the people, and most importantly the deep understanding of diversity to establish comprehensive inclusion efforts. Historically, Portland has become a home for a multitude of unique schools that signify this mission.

There are private, public, boarding, and even religious institutions that all strive to give their student body the best resources and learning possible for a fulfilled life.

Who are some of these outstanding schools? Well, take a look!

Ten of the BEST Schools in the Portland Area

Catlin Gabel School: Catlin Gabel is an exceptional, nationally recognized, progressive, independent day school; it was declared as Niche’s 2022 Top School in Oregon! They defy the traditional academic standard by utilizing an inquiry based style of learning, which means they foster creative thinking through the deliverance of experiential learning. They do this through They claim that they “educate for democracy” and incorporate discussions about power and privilege into their classwork.

Oregon Episcopal School: Much like Catlin Gabel, OES offers an inquiry-based education to “prepare students for lifelong learning”. As a K-12 school located in Southwest Portland, they’re very much a “learning-by-doing” institution; they believe action is the best way to retain knowledge! With small-sized classes and year-long research projects, OES cultivates a seamless and connected education for their pupils.

Jesuit High School: This is a nonprofit coed college prep school a part of a 450-year Jesuit educational tradition! They combine their holistic view of learning with educational philosophy focusing on the WHOLE of the student rather than just their intellectual talent. They do use the seven themes of Catholic Social Teaching as well as the Four  Universal Apostolic Preferences to guide their devout Jesuit work.

Beaverton Academy of Science and Engineering: BASE is a specialized academy passionate about creating a collaborative learning environment for real-life innovation. They’re focused on biomedical, engineering, and computer science education for future expertise! They craft pathways for each of the subjects taught to ensure the student receives the most integrative education possible so they enter their desired fields with profound life skills and advanced knowledge!

Northwest Academy: NWA is also ranked as a Niche 2022 Top School in Oregon! They emphasize the cultural impact of various influences, particularly their urban location AND expression through the arts. They have an entire corridor dedicated to showcasing Portland’s cultural resources! The school also exemplifies a passion for performing and visual arts; their academics consistently incorporate artistic disciplines to nourish more balanced and creative thinkers.

St. Mary’s Academy: St. Mary’s is Oregon’s oldest continuously operating secondary educational institution! It’s a Catholic all-girls college prep school in the hub of Portland that nurtures both the spiritual and cultural development of every student. Because of their close proximity to a number of popular locations in the city, including Portland State University, the young ladies are encouraged to utilize their surroundings to apply their education grounded in the Catholic faith.

Valley Catholic School: This is another, more religious option for schooling within the greater Portland area! They offer education from PreK through grade 12, but begin college preparatory efforts beginning in the middle school grades. A particularly interesting and unique education Valley Catholic offers is a music school! They offer private lessons for both children and adult amidst the school year!

International School of Beaverton- High School: ISB centers their education our intercultural respect as well as intellectual rigor for the most prepared of pupils for their future lives. They are recognized by the International Baccalaureate Organization as an IB World School, which means they have a worldwide curriculum able to cater to all diverse backgrounds. They offer both Middle School (grades 6-10) and High School (grades 11-12) programs.

Central Catholic High School: Integrating a Catholic worldview with an arduous education creates a strong community for learning and faith. Aside from their 14 honors courses and 13 AP courses, theology is deeply ingrained into the experience. Students partake in courses such as Scripture, Church History, Sacraments, Liturgy & Prayer, Moral Theology, Social Justice, and Christian Relationships.

Lakeridge High School: Ranked in the Top 5 PUBLIC High Schools near Portland, Lakeridge is a comprehensive four-year secondary academy crafted to strengthen and nurture college-bound students. They have an alternating schedule with lengthy allotments for fewer courses in a day to give them the attention and rigor necessary for optimal retainment! They do provide extracurriculars and subjects beyond the norm to ensure all passions of the student body are recognized and validated.