Private High School
Bishop Montgomery High School
Bishop Montgomery High School is committed to delivering a high-quality, faith-based education to students from diverse backgrounds.
Tiffanie Tolsma, the Director of Marketing and Community Outreach, highlighted the school’s inclusive nature, stating, “Our demographic composition does not consist predominantly of any single group. We attract students from more than 45 different schools spanning a 13-mile radius.”
According to Tolsma, Bishop Montgomery High School ranks as the third most diverse high school in California.
The school, with an enrollment of 900 students, provides a wide array of opportunities including 60 clubs and 19 Honors and AP classes.
Tolsma emphasized the school’s intimate environment, saying, “We offer all the essential components of a high school experience, yet we maintain a size that ensures every student receives personalized attention.”
For students at Bishop Montgomery High School, the sense of community sets the school apart.
Senior Angel Llamas expressed, “I believe Bishop Montgomery High School earned the title of Best of the Beach because we truly function as a united community embodying the essence of what a high school, especially a Catholic high school, should represent. BMHS is a place where individuals can discover their unique place and flourish in readiness for the future.”
Contact Information:
Bishop Montgomery High School
5430 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance
(310) 540-2021
Private Elementary School
Peninsula Heritage School
Peninsula Heritage School offers a rigorous academic program catering to students from kindergarten through eighth grade.
Joan E. Behrens, the Director of Advancement, emphasized the school’s commitment to nurturing each child’s talents and individuality. Behrens stated, “We believe in the importance of fostering connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, hence we strive to maintain a student body that is inclusive and diverse.”
With a student-to-teacher ratio of seven to one, Peninsula Heritage School focuses on addressing the unique needs of each student to foster academic excellence, physical development, and strong character.
The school provides a comprehensive curriculum encompassing music, performing arts, laboratory science, coding, Spanish language courses, fine arts, and physical education.
Parent Lauren Schlesinger praised the school, saying, “They cater to each child’s academic, social, and emotional requirements. I wholeheartedly recommend this school as it has become a second home for my children.”
Contact Information:
Peninsula Heritage School
26944 Rolling Hills Rd.
Rolling Hills Estates
(310) 541-4795
Private Pre School
Manhattan Academy
Established in 1975, Manhattan Academy has been a prominent institution in the South Bay area, consistently receiving accolades such as the Best of the Beach award for Best Private Preschool.
Shannon Robley, the school’s director, attributed their success to the unique educational approach offered at Manhattan Academy. Robley explained, “Our school stands out due to its hands-on learning approach, small teacher-to-student ratios, and the genuine passion our educators have for their work, which reflects in our interactions with the children.”
Located in Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Academy enrolls students from six weeks old to fifth grade, following the Montessori method to tailor education to each child’s social, emotional, and academic needs.
Robley emphasized the school’s mission of providing a nurturing and respectful environment, stating, “Our dedication to individualized attention sets us apart in our approach to child development. We prioritize love, respect, and a peaceful learning atmosphere.”
The school offers a comprehensive educational experience with extracurricular activities such as swimming, gardening, cooking, art, dance, Spanish language classes, and various cultural enrichment programs.
Parent Rachel Andrews commended the school, saying, “The staff members exhibit exceptional kindness and genuine care for the children. Their meticulous planning and focus on independence and learning are truly commendable.”
Contact Information:
Manhattan Academy
1740 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach
(310) 374-1804