This study elucidates the key factors influencing the digital transformation process in the management of private K-12 schools in Vietnam, driven by the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates a quantitative survey of 503 participants with 28 in-depth semi-structured interviews involving school administrators, teachers, staff, students, and parents, in order to provide a comprehensive view of the digital transformation context. The findings identify six determinant groups for successful implementation: leadership commitment and strategic orientation; digital competence and readiness of the educational workforce; quality of IT infrastructure; financial resources; an innovation-oriented organizational culture; and active engagement of parents and students. Concurrently, the study highlights significant challenges such as outdated infrastructure, insufficient digital skills training, and uneven policy enforcement. Nevertheless, the development of a rigorous strategic plan, the intensification of continuous training, the cultivation of a creative culture, and the strengthening of collaboration among schools, parents, and the wider community are identified as the keys to promoting an effective and sustainable digital transformation in Vietnam’s private education sector.