Armenian Schools in Los Angeles

Armenian Schools in Los Angeles: What You Need to Know

Southern California is home to a remarkable concentration of Armenian schools — institutions that have been educating Armenian-American children since the 1960s. Whether you're looking for a full academic private school, an early childhood program, or a weekend language class, the Armenian community in LA has built something truly rare: a complete educational pipeline from preschool through high school.

Full-Day Armenian Private Schools

Schools like Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School (est. 1964), Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School (est. 1969), Armenian Mesrobian School (est. 1965), Charlotte & Elise Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School, and Armenian Sisters' Academy offer rigorous college-preparatory academics alongside daily Armenian language instruction. These schools serve thousands of students across the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, Pico Rivera, and Montrose.

Armenian Preschools & Early Childhood Programs

Starting Armenian language exposure early — ideally before age six — dramatically increases the chances of fluency. St. Mary's Richard Tufenkian Preschool & Kindergarten in Glendale is a NAEYC-accredited institution that has served the community since 1975. First Steps offers early childhood and special education support for children with developmental needs. Mankik Academy also provides early childhood programming for Armenian families in Los Angeles.

Armenian Daycares & Childcare in Los Angeles

For working Armenian parents, finding a daycare in Glendale or Burbank where your child hears Armenian, celebrates Armenian holidays, and connects with other Armenian kids can be priceless. Most Armenian daycares and childcare centers in LA are run out of preschools, church programs, or private home-based programs led by Armenian-speaking caregivers. If you're searching for an Armenian daycare near me, start with licensed Armenian preschools (St. Mary's, First Steps, Mankik) that also offer extended-day childcare, then explore Armenian caregivers in the SupportArmenian directory. Many Armenian families also prefer in-home nannies or tatik (grandmother) childcare — a beloved tradition in the community.

Saturday & Weekend Language Schools

For families whose children attend public or non-Armenian private schools, weekend language programs are a vital supplement. Haykazunyadz Armenian School in Glendale offers Friday evening and Saturday morning classes for grades K–8, keeping Western Armenian alive in the diaspora community.

What to Look for When Choosing a School

Beyond academics, Armenian families should evaluate schools on: quality of Armenian language instruction (hours per week, native-speaking teachers), cultural programming (Armenian holidays, dance, history), faith alignment (Apostolic, Evangelical, or secular), class sizes, and financial aid availability. The best Armenian schools excel in all of these areas simultaneously.