Top Private and Public Schools in Santa Fe for Families Moving to the Area

Moving to Santa Fe? Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With its mix of top-rated public and private schools, Santa Fe offers something for every family. Whether you’re keen on academic excellence, arts programs, small class sizes, or extracurricular options, there’s a school here to match your priorities.

To make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top public and private schools in Santa Fe. Keep reading to discover standout institutions that can help your child thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Top Public Schools in Santa Fe

1. Wood Gormley Elementary School – Academic Excellence for Young Learners

Grade Levels: K–6

Why It Stands Out: Wood Gormley Elementary consistently ranks as one of Santa Fe’s best elementary schools, thanks to its strong academic programs and dedicated staff.

Key Features:

• Small class sizes that ensure personalized attention for each student
• A focus on literacy and math to build a solid educational foundation
• An active parent-teacher association promoting a supportive community

Essential Info:

Wood Gormley is part of the Santa Fe Public Schools district and is located in the heart of the city. For more details, visit their official website.

2. Mandela International Magnet School – A Global Education Experience

Grade Levels: 7–12

Why It Stands Out: Mandela International Magnet School offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, focusing on cultural awareness and bilingual studies. The school prepares students to become global citizens with critical thinking and leadership skills.

Key Features:

• A unique program that prepares students for a globally interconnected world
• A high college placement rate that reflects its academic rigor
• Limited enrollment for a more tailored and focused education experience
• Experienced faculty dedicated to student success
• A diverse curriculum fostering critical thinking and innovation

Essential Info:

This public charter school has a competitive admissions process, so it’s worth applying early. Visit their official website and learn more!

 3. Santa Fe High School – Well-Rounded Opportunities for Teens

Grade Levels: 9–12

Why It Stands Out: Santa Fe High School is a comprehensive high school that offers a balance of rigorous academics, arts, and athletics. Students are encouraged to explore their passions while preparing for future success.

Key Features:

• Numerous AP courses and dual credit programs for college-prep students
• Strong music, arts, and theater programs that encourage creativity
• Competitive sports teams and a wide range of extracurricular clubs

Essential Info:

Santa Fe High School is part of the Santa Fe Public Schools district. Visit the official school website for enrollment information.

Best Private Schools in Santa Fe

1. Santa Fe Prep – Preparing Students for a Bright Future

Grade Levels: 7–12

Why It Stands Out: Known for academic excellence, Santa Fe Prep focuses on leadership, community service, and preparing students for top colleges. The school fosters a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Key Features:

• Small class sizes for a personalized learning experience
• A unique emphasis on outdoor education and experiential learning
• A high percentage of alumni accepted into prestigious universities
• Dedicated teachers who foster curiosity and creativity

Essential Info:

To learn more about tuition and admissions, check out Santa Fe Prep’s official website.

 2. St. Michael’s High School – A Strong Tradition of Academic Achievement

Grade Levels: 7–12

Why It Stands Out: St. Michael’s High School is one of the oldest in New Mexico and is known for academically rigorous programs. Students benefit from a strong sense of community and values-based education. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities to support personal growth and development.

Key Features:

• Offers AP, honors, and dual-credit courses
• Exceptional athletics and extracurricular activities
• A commitment to leadership, faith, and community values
• State-of-the-art facilities and technology
• Experienced and dedicated faculty focused on student success

Essential Info:

St. Michael’s provides scholarship opportunities for families in need. Visit their official website for details.

 3. Rio Grande School – Building Strong Foundations for Young Students

Grade Levels: Pre-K–6

Why It Stands Out: Rio Grande School takes a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning, making it a standout choice for younger children. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, each student receives personalized attention to thrive.

Key Features:

• A focus on early childhood development and individualized attention
• A community-driven environment with active parent involvement
• Creative, project-based learning experiences tailored to young learners
• Emphasis on fostering social and emotional growth in a nurturing setting

Essential Info:

Visit the Rio Grande School’s official website to learn more about tuition and enrollment.

 What to Consider When Choosing a School in Santa Fe

Picking the right school comes down to your family’s unique needs and values. Here are some factors to consider as you weigh your options:

• Public or Private: Public schools often have no tuition but may have larger class sizes. Private schools charge tuition, but many offer scholarships.
• Location: Consider proximity to your home or work, access to bus routes, and whether the school falls within your district.
• Academic Reputation: Look at standardized test scores, college placement rates, and any notable achievements.
• Special Programs: Does the school offer arts, STEM, bilingual education, or a Montessori approach that fits your child’s interests?
• Extracurricular Activities: From sports teams to music programs, these opportunities can add balance to your child’s education.

For official resources, visit the Santa Fe Public Schools website.

A Smart Start for Your Child’s Education

Santa Fe’s schools are as diverse as its beautiful landscape. Whether you’re leaning toward a top-rated public school or a premier private institution, you’ll find great options to set your child up for success.

We recommend exploring school websites, reading reviews, and even setting up visits or virtual tours whenever possible. And don’t forget, many schools have limited spots and specific enrollment deadlines, so the earlier you start your planning, the better.