Unique Montessori School for 12 weeks through 12^th grade Wins Top Marks

Bowman School of Palo Alto, CA is proud to announce it has been nationally recognized as one of the Best Schools in America by Niche.com, the country’s leading school and college search platform. Niche has ranked Bowman School as one of the Best Private K-12 Schools for 2025, with a solid A+ ranking across all categories, including Best Academics, Best Diversity, Best Teachers, and Best Overall.

This prestigious rating reflects Bowman School’s exceptional performance across numerous factors analyzed by Niche including academic performance, data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and user input from current students, alumni, and parents.

A MONTESSORI APPROACH THROUGH GRADE 12

Bowman is the only Montessori school in California accredited to serve students from 12 weeks through 12^th grade. This unique offering allows older students to pursue an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, recognized at universities worldwide for its rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum.

Bowman’s Head of School, Mary Beth Ricks, added:

As Bowman approaches our 30th anniversary this year, it’s a pleasure to see this national recognition from Niche for the outstanding quality of our Montessori school, located in Palo Alto, CA. Our consistently high standards have inspired deep trust among our school community, as well as among our neighbors, who know us as considerate, reliable, and ethical. On behalf of my staff and our steadfast supporters, we’re proud of these achievements and grateful for the opportunity to continue our mission. Our joy and our expertise lies in guiding Bowman students to become lifelong learners, innovative problem solvers, and responsible global citizens, who can thrive anywhere.

Mary Beth Ricks

BOWMAN’S FOUR A+ CATEGORY WINS:

TOP-TIER ACADEMICS

Bowman students thrive in an environment that blends hands-on exploration with academic rigor. Guided by their personal interests, they typically exceed curriculum standards while developing critical thinking skills. The school’s focus on practical life skills, courtesy, and world cultures prepares students to manage their time and work well with others. Confidence and consideration emerge as key Bowman attributes, along with innovative problem-solving.

EXCEPTIONAL TEACHERS

Bowman’s teachers are highly credentialed and receive continuous professional development, particularly in Montessori methods. This investment in staff ensures that educators can support each student’s unique learning journey while helping them master core skills and maintain their passion for discovery.

A DIVERSE, INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY

With families and staff from over 30 countries, Bowman fosters a safe, inclusive environment for global awareness, where students can learn from one another’s perspectives. The school’s diversity mirrors that of the University of California system, reflecting a shared commitment to broad representation.

AWARD-WINNING EXCELLENCE

Bowman’s dedication to excellence has earned it multiple accolades, including recognition as “Best in Silicon Valley” in 2024 by Bay Area Parent magazine, across several brackets.

This 2025 assessment by Niche includes a “clean sweep” of solid A+ ratings across all categories, which is exceptional. Click to explore Bowman School’s profile on Niche.com, where parent reviews further confirm its standing as a top school choice.

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