Boarding Schools in California

What's Up in California

This page features a list of boarding schools in California (CA), USA.

California is a state on the west coast of the United States. With over 39.3 million residents across a total area of approximately 163,696 square miles (423,970 km2), it is the most populous state and the third-largest state by area. It is also the most populated subnational entity in North America and the 34th most populous in the world.

Education in California (CA), USA

The educational system in California consists of public and private schools. California is the most populous state of the U.S. and has the most school students, with over 6.2 million in the 2005–06 school year. About 25% of school students are English learners, compared to 9% nationally. Funding and staffing levels in California schools lag behind other states. In expenditure per pupil, California ranked 29th of the 51 states (including the District of Columbia) in 2005–06. In teaching staff expenditure per pupil, California ranked 49th of 51. In overall teacher-pupil ratio, California was also 49th, with 21 students per teacher. Only Arizona and Utah were lower.

In 2008, the California Department of Education (CDE) created a dynamic, web-based publication to provide educators with relevant information pertaining to middle grades. Taking Center Stage—Act II (TCSII): Ensuring Success and Closing the Achievement Gap for All of California’s Middle Grades Students was designed to promote, illustrate, and support the concepts embedded in the California Department of Education’s (CDE) 12 Recommendations for Middle Grades Success. Created specifically for middle grades educators, TCSII content offers developmentally responsive and research-based practices through videos, professional learning activities, and best practice vignettes focused on the young adolescent.

In order to graduate from California public high schools, students must complete specified state and local graduation requirements. Local school districts have the authority and responsibility for establishing high school graduation requirements. These requirements vary among school districts. However, California Education Code Section 51225.3 specifies that students must pass a minimum set of required courses and an exit examination. These requirements should be viewed as minimums and support for the regulations specified by the local school boards.

High school boarding school students interested in attending a California public university after graduation must have completed the required freshman admission course requirements while in boarding school.

For parents everywhere, nothing is more important than making sure their children receive the best possible education. While many parents choose to have their children attend public schools, others opt to let their children attend boarding school. Not only do these schools offer educational opportunities that may not be found elsewhere, but they also allow children to grow in many ways by letting them learn about various social and cultural activities. Within California, there are a variety of boarding schools that are known for their high academic standards and emphasis on helping youngsters become the leaders of tomorrow. For parents who are looking for unique educational opportunities for their children in California, these schools offer social and cultural experiences that can lead to a lifetime of learning.

Idyllwild Arts Academy View profile »

For children who desire a career in the visual and performing arts, many parents turn to the Idyllwild Arts Academy. Located only an hour away from Palm Springs, this coed school for grades 9-12 offers a secluded 205-acre campus filled with pine trees. Considered a very international school, it has an enrollment of 300 students from 25 nations. Operating a summer arts program as well, the Academy is committed to helping children who desire to perform fulfill their dreams.

Monte Vista Christian School View profile »

For parents who want their children to attend a boarding school while still getting a Christian-based education, Monte Vista Christian School may be a good option. Along with its faith-based programs, the school is also well-known for its highly competitive sports teams in the Monterey Bay League. Students can choose to compete in various sports including football, basketball, soccer, golf, swimming, wrestling, and many others. In addition, an Equestrian program is also offered for both boys and girls.

Ribet Academy

One of the few boarding schools in California to offer programs for grades PreK-12, Ribet Academy is located in Los Angeles. What makes the school stand out is the distinction of having Southern California’s largest marine biology lab as well as a theater, courtroom, photography studio, and orchestra area.