The Carey School Photo #1

The Carey School

The Carey School, founded in 1928, is an accredited, independent, co-educational private day school located in San Mateo, CA, serving students in Preschool through Grade 5.
Specializing in elementary education, The Carey School inspires curious, confident, and joyful learners and celebrates childhood in an inclusive, diverse community that nurtures kindness, respect, and personal responsibility.

Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Nursery/Preschool-5
  • Enrollment: 278 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $38,767
  • Acceptance rate: 12%
  • Average class size: 20 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 16
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

The Carey School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:

Category
Attribute
School History
School Resources

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-5
Year Founded
1928
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details

Student Body

Total Students
278 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
30%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
The Carey School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
35 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
20 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 16
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
K - Grade 5: $38,762 Pre-Kindergarten: $32,467
Summer Program Cost
$575
Summer Program Cost Notes
Cost per week. Includes lunch.
Acceptance Rate
12%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Ida Gruber
Application URL
Endowment Size
$900 million

School Notes

  • School Mascot: Eagles
The Carey School's Commitments Bring The Mission To Life
  • Educate each child through an academically challenging and balanced pre-kindergarten to fifth-grade educational curriculum based on the fundamentals of reading, language arts, and math.
  • Advance our curriculum with integrated studies in science, music, art, world languages, technology, library studies, physical education, and other enrichment programs.
  • Enable students to reach their fullest potential by providing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that nurtures cognitive, creative, social-emotional, and physical growth.
  • Sustain a culture of teaching excellence through passionate faculty, curriculum reviews, collaboration, and professional development.
  • Partner with families to maintain our inclusive community and build student awareness of self as well as the world beyond.
  • Graduate enthusiastic, life-long learners who are prepared with the skills for a successful educational journey.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does The Carey School cost?
The Carey School's tuition is approximately $38,767 for private students and $575 for summer students.
What schools are The Carey School often compared to?
The Carey School is often viewed alongside schools like The Nueva Middle School by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of The Carey School?
The acceptance rate of The Carey School is 12%, which is lower than the national average of 80%. The Carey School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
Does The Carey School offer a summer program?
Yes, The Carey School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What is The Carey School's ranking?
The Carey School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body, Oldest founding date and Largest endowments.
When is the application deadline for The Carey School?
The application deadline for The Carey School is Jan. 16.
In what neighborhood is The Carey School located?
The Carey School is located in the Beresford Park neighborhood of San Mateo, CA. There are 5 other private schools located in Beresford Park.

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Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Nursery/Preschool-5
  • Enrollment: 278 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $38,767
  • Acceptance rate: 12%
  • Average class size: 20 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 16
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in San Mateo, CA is $23,652 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in San Mateo, CA is 63% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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