Best private schools in San Diego, CA options?

I'm trying to figure out which private schools in San Diego are top-rated and why. What should I know about their academic and extracurricular offerings? Any insights on the overall school environment?

San Diego has a number of top-notch private schools with excellent academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities. Here's a quick overview of some of them:

1. Francis Parker School: Known for its rigorous college-preparatory program, Francis Parker School offers a wide range of Honors and AP courses. Students also engage in visual and performing arts, athletics, and numerous student clubs. Many students mention its supportive community and dedicated faculty as key advantages.

2. La Jolla Country Day School: This school provides a well-rounded education from pre-K to 12th grade with an impressive 12:1 student-teacher ratio. It's highly sought-after for its wide variety of electives and AP courses. Athletics and arts are also well-integrated into their curriculum, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in both.

3. The Bishop's School: This Episcopal-affiliated school boasts high academic standards, stellar college placement records, and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. They have a strong focus on leadership and community service. Students often compliment the vibrant community and challenging curriculum.

4. Santa Fe Christian Schools: Offering rigorous academic programs from elementary to high school level, Santa Fe Christian Schools also provides a spiritually enriched learning environment. With multiple AP courses and a 9:1 student-teacher ratio, the curriculum is balanced with strong programs in athletics, arts, and community service.

5. Del Mar Pines School: Known for its strong concentration on foundational skills and creativity within learning, Del Mar Pines School caters to Kindergarten to 6th grade students. The school boasts small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and a curated curriculum for each student's needs.

Like any school, the best fit will depend on the specific needs and aspirations of the student. I would recommend reaching out to each school and arranging for tours or shadow days (if available). This will allow you to get a first-hand feel of the school culture and interact with the faculty and students. It's also useful to consider each school's philosophy of education, values, and approach to learning to determine if they align with your own expectations. Additionally, you should look into their college admission statistics if that's a factor for you.