PUBLIC SCHOOLS: ELEMENTARY
Adams Elementary School (K-6)
2701 Las Positas Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 sbceoportal.org/adams
Principal: Amy Alzina
Additional support in English language development speech offered. There is vocal, instrumental music, art, library, computer literacy, Gifted and Talented Education, and special education.
Adelante Charter School (K-6)
1102 E. Yanonali St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 adelantecharter.org
Principal: Juanita Hernandez
The school features a two-way immersion program. The school embraces the languages and cultures of its students and uses these linguistic assets and cultural affirmations as foundations for building long-term academic success.
Aliso Elementary School (K-5)
4545 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013 aliso.cusd.net
Principal: Holly Minear
Every Aliso family has the opportunity to receive a free computer for their home to access learning resources at school and at home. They are given Internet services at a reduced rate, and parents are given appropriate training.
Ballard Elementary School (K-6)
2425 School St., Solvang, CA 93463 ballardschool.org
Principal: Allan Pelletier
Reconstruction during 1995 completed the campus with science stations, spaces for computer labs, and a multipurpose room large enough to accommodate the student population for assemblies and school-wide activities.
Brandon School (K-6)
195 Brandon Dr., Goleta, CA 93117 brandon.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Felicia Roggero
The school maximizes academic, intellectual, and personal growth in order for each student to prosper in, and positively influence, a diverse and dynamic world. School grounds are filled with murals done by the 6th grade classes, which is an annual tradition.
Canalino School (K-5)
1480 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 canalino.cusd.net
Principal: Jamie Persoon
Instructional assistants work with each teacher through small group instructions. Two computers labs offer all students skills in keyboarding, PowerPoint instruction, and research, and after-school programs include gardening, sports, arts, and dancing. 500 students.
Carpinteria Family School (K-5)
1480 Linden Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 cfs.cusd.net
Principal: Leslie Ann Gravitz
This school provides an educational alternative with the belief that children come to school already immersed in their learning. Classes run on a continuum. Each class has two or more grades, and students remain in the same class for more than one year. Parents are integral to the school’s environment. 78 students.
Cleveland Elementary School (TK-6, year-round school)
123 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 sbcleveland.org
Principal: Gabriel Sandoval
In 1998, the Cleveland School community culminated a two-year study for continuous learning systems for elementary-age students, with the adoption of a year-round school calendar. Students attend three 60-day trimesters of instruction, while their three months of vacation are evenly distributed throughout the school year. Each vacation period is one month long.
Cold Spring School (K-6)
2243 Sycamore Canyon Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93108 coldspringschool.net
Superintendent/Principal: Tricia Price, EdD
The staff’s development focus is on Visible Thinking Routines, which help to guide learners thought processes to think beyond facts and encourage them to probe the certainty of their own ideas. School has professional artists and musicians that provide instruction in visual arts, ceramic sculpture, instrument, and drama. Approximately 200 students.
College School (K-1)
3525 Pine St., Santa Ynez, CA 93460 collegeschooldistrict.org
Principal: Maurene Donner
After 1st grade, these students continue to Santa Ynez School, the other school in this district.
El Camino School (TK-6)
5020 San Simeon Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 elcamino.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Liz Barnitz
El Camino is a No Excuses University School, with a pervasive, college-bound focus. We offer a wide array of after- and before-school learning opportunities, ranging from engineering and robotics to instrumental band, to Polynesian dance to a computer-based intervention clinic.
Ellwood Elementary School (K-6)
7686 Hollister Ave., Goleta, CA 93117 ellwood.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Abby Vasquez
The teachers focus on best instructional practices while aligning the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS), within all curricular areas, in order to help all students reach their highest potential.
Foothill School (K-6)
711 Ribera Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 foothill.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Dr. Bridget Braney
Instruction follows the Common Core State Standards. There is a garden, library, and computer lab with an online keyboarding program called Typing Web for grades 3-6. 457 students.
Franklin Elementary School (TK-6)
1111 E. Mason St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 franklinschooleagles.com
Principal: Casie Killgore
Instruction is provided in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, fine arts, music, technology, and physical education. In addition, there are visitors (parents and other community members), assemblies, field trips, and other enrichment activities that enhance and enrich the classroom instruction.
Goleta Family School (K-6)
Foothill Elementary School, 711 Ribera Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 goletafamilyschool.com
This alternative public school provides a child-centered curriculum with an emphasis on creative expression, independent thinking, and cooperative social skills. All students participate together in community activities as well as outdoor school day, play, singing performances, and projects.
Harding University Partnership School (TK-6)
1625 Robbins St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 sbunified.org/schools/elementary-schools/harding-university-partnership-school
Principal: Veronica Binkley
The first elementary school in S.B. County to receive the International Baccalaureate (IB) designation. Harding’s relationship with UCSB’s Gevirtz School of Education provides multiple opportunities for enrichment, intervention, and collaboration in engaging and exciting projects while further developing conceptual understanding and inquiry-based teaching.
Hollister School (K-6)
4950 Anita Ln., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 goleta.k12.ca.us/schoolsites/Hollister
Principal: Ryan Sparre
This school offers a Digital Literacy & Citizenship Classroom Curriculum designed to empower students to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in our digital world. 468 students.
Hope School (K-6)
3970-A La Colina Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 sbceoportal.org/hope
Principal: Barbara LaCorte
Hope School’s focus is on Essential Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics and the use of Research-based Differentiated Grouping and Instructional Strategies.
Isla Vista School (TK-6)
6875 El Colegio Rd., Goleta, CA 93117 goleta.k12.ca.us/schoolsites/iv
Principal: Mary Kahn
I.V. School integrates a specialized program for children with autism and is a member of THRIVE, a collaborative focused on preparing children for school readiness through integrated services to families beginning prenatally. They take pride and celebrate that more than 25 cultures and languages are represented among the students and families. 516 students.
Kellogg School (K-6)
475 N. Cambridge Dr., Goleta, CA 93117 kellogg.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Kimberly Bruzzese
Kellogg boasts a diverse student population with instructions in science, computer labs, school garden, physical education, library, music, and art. 370 students.
La Patera Elementary School (K-6)
555 N. La Patera Ln., Goleta, CA 93117 goleta.k12.ca.us/schoolsites/lapatera
Principal: Dr. Ricardo Araiza
La Patera is focused on FactsWise, Number Talks, and Coherent Writing, programs aligned with the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS).
Los Olivos Elementary School (K-8)
2540 Alamo Pintado Ave., Los Olivos, CA 93441 sbceoportal.org/losolivos
Principal/Superintendent: Bridget Baublits
Los Olivos Elementary School is a welcoming, small-town community of connected, creative, hardworking learners, who encourage one another to be positive, to be exploratory, to be risk takers, and to embrace our differences. Los Olivos provides students a balanced educational program that is rich in academic rigor, while providing enrichment classes in technology, arts, music, foreign language, and engineering. Approximately 170 students.
McKinley Elementary School (TK-6)
350 Loma Alta Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 mckinley.sbunified.org
Principal: Emilio Handall
This school envisions all students as thriving citizens, successfully integrated into their communities and possessing skills needed to access unlimited opportunities in the 21st century.
Monroe Elementary School (K-6)
431 Flora Vista Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 monroe.sbunified.org
Principal: Brian Naughton
Students are grouped (and regrouped) for daily instruction in math (45 minutes, grades 2-5) and language arts (45 minutes, grades 3-5) based on performance on specific objectives. Students in K-1 receive individualized small-group instruction in self-contained classrooms with teaming of regular and special education teachers. Project Read, a multisensory, structured language arts program, provides a consistent approach to the teaching of phonics and written language.
Monte Vista School (K-6)
730 N. Hope Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 montevistaschool.org
Principal: Nancy Lorenzen
Curriculum is augmented with a fine arts program: weekly innovative PE, art, music classes, reading programs, green volunteering, and an after-school program.
Mountain View School (K-6)
5465 Queen Anne Ln., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 mtnview.goleta.k12.ca.us
Principal: Ned Schoenwetter
Students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades can choose to participate in three discrete curricular units that have a GATE or Higher Level Thinking (HLT) Skills component. The school provides specialists for music, art, physical education, science, computer science, and library. 340 students.
Montecito Union School (K-6)
385 San Ysidro Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93108 montecitou.org
Principal: Dr. Nick Bruski
The school’s staff includes specialists in art, music, physical education, technology, Spanish, and library. 489 students.
Oak Valley Elementary School (K-5)
595 Second St., Buellton, CA 93427 oakvalleyelem.org
Principal: Lisa Maglione
Curriculum is comprehensive and research-based, with a strong emphasis on language arts and mathematics, science, and social studies. 480 students.
Open Alternative School (K-8)
4025 Foothill Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 oas.sbunified.org
Principal: Colleen Million
Open Alternative is a child-centered holistic educational experience that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit of each child. A solid academic program is key for acquiring essential knowledge and skills and is backed up by an instructional approach that supports children in becoming motivated and responsible for their own learning.
Peabody Charter School (K-6)
3018 Calle Noguera, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 peabodycharter.org
Principal: Demian Barnett
Peabody offers an extended school day/late-start Fridays; Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program; art enrichment; the Splash Zone, which hosts ceramics and fine arts classes daily with our artists in residence; Peabody Peacemakers, a voluntary cadre of upper-grade students trained in conflict resolution vocabulary and strategies; second language instruction in English or Spanish; and sports.
Roosevelt Elementary School (K-6)
1990 Laguna St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 rooseveltschoolsb.org
Principal: Christy Mendivil
This school features comprehensive reading program for all levels; Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) for identified students in grades 3-6 in core language arts and mathematics, as well as enrichment via a school news program; Learning Center which provides academic support to students with exceptional needs; Discipline-Based Art Education emphasizes art history and criticism as well as studio art; a 6th-grade trip to Outdoor School; participation in Los Marineros, a marine biology program developed by the Museum of Natural History; after-school programs; instructional music program; and PTA-sponsored cultural and arts assemblies and field trips.
Santa Barbara Charter School (K-8)
c/o Goleta Valley Junior High School, 6100 Stow Canyon Rd., Goleta, CA 93117 sbcharter.org
Director of Education: Laura Donner
The curriculum is based on the California State Frameworks and the Santa Barbara School’s Student Goals and Learner Objectives. Elements of Waldorf, Montessori, and Humanistic models of education are incorporated. The theory of multiple intelligences is embraced as a foundation for both curriculum and methodology. Academics are taught through the arts, using drama, stories, music, art, and storytelling. Opportunities are available for home-schooled children to attend school one or more days a week, where they work with specialists and then join the rest of the school for recess, elective activities, and performances.
Santa Barbara Community Academy (K-6, year-round school)
850 Portesuello Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 sbceoportal.org/sbca
Principal: Alicia Saballa-Santana
As an official Core Knowledge visitation school, in addition to covering required California Standards–based curricula, the Academy provides a rich content sequence in all subject areas, including the arts, from kindergarten through 6th grade. A year-round calendar, uniforms, full-day kindergarten, and an emphasis on parental involvement are considered essential to optimum success for all students.
Santa Ynez Elementary School (2-8)
3325 Pine St., Santa Ynez, CA 93460 collegeschooldistrict.org
Principal: Maurene Donner
Santa Ynez Valley Charter School (K-8)
3525 Pine St., Santa Ynez, CA 93460 syvcs.org
Executive Director: Mark Palmerston
Solvang School (K-8)
565 Atterdag Rd., Solvang, CA 93463 solvangschool.org
Principal: Dr. John Karbula
In addition to placing strong emphasis on the mastery of basic academic skills like reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, social studies, and science, attention is given to higher-level thinking skills and a comprehensive fine arts program including visual arts, music, drama, and movement. We have Spanish-speaking liaisons that aid and counsel our Spanish-speaking children and their families.
Summerland School (K-5)
135 Valencia Rd., Summerland, CA 93067 summerland.cusd.net
Principal: Holly Minear
There are four classrooms, each classroom composed of two grades. A committed staff provides a stimulating environment in which children become well-informed, imaginative, effective decision-makers capable of working independently or collaboratively to create workable solutions to complex problems. Small businesses support and enhance learning opportunities and curriculum.
Vieja Valley School (K-6)
434 Nogal Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 viejavalleyschool.org
Principal: Juan Ricoy
Technology, art, speech, and music programs are key parts of the curriculum.
Washington Elementary School (K-6)
290 Lighthouse Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 washingtonschool.us
Principal: Sierra Loughridge
Critical thinking skills are developed through literacy, fine arts, mathematics, technology and the sciences. Individual excellence and a desire for lifelong learning are promoted through a partnership between home, school, and community.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS: MIDDLE
Carpinteria Middle School (6-8)
5351 Carpinteria Ave., Carpinteria, CA 93013 cms.cusd.net
Principal: John Merritt
As a smaller school in a tight-knit community, this school provides a nurturing and safe environment. There are 27 teachers and a host of support staff working to improve student learning and achievement. Approximately 500 students.
Goleta Valley Junior High School (7-8)
6100 Stow Canyon Rd., Goleta, CA 93117 gvjh.sbunified.org
Principal: Veronica Rogers
The school’s participation in the National Science Foundation’s Partnership for School Innovation actively involves students with science. Intellectually challenging opportunities are available for qualified students in English, science, social studies, and mathematics. Honors program students have a core class of English and social studies. Students with limited English receive specifically designed academic instruction in English for mathematics, social studies, and science, in addition to two periods of English as a Second Language. Supervised study time is available in the Homework Center after school, at Noon Tutorial sessions, and in two community locations after school hours.
Jonata Middle School (6-8)
301 Second St., Buellton, CA 93427 buelltonjms.sharpschool.net
Principal: Jerry W. Cradduck
Work and learn in a variety of environments including the following: regular classrooms, science labs, computer lab, library, fitness room, and outdoor area. Students have access to a large playground including a soccer field, basketball courts, baseball and softball fields, and tennis courts.
La Colina Junior High School (7-8)
4025 Foothill Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 lcjhs.org
Principal: David L. Ortiz
About 20 percent of La Colina students are enrolled in the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program. Advanced classes are available for qualified students in all academic areas: science, math, English, and social studies. Other program highlights include a state-of-the-art industrial technology classroom; an English Language Learner program; courses in Spanish, French, and Latin; and comprehensive performing arts and music programs. Approximately 850 students.
La Cumbre Junior High School (7-8)
2255 Modoc Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 lacumbrejhs.org
Principal: Jo Ann Caines
The school offers an interdisciplinary honors program in language arts and social studies and a Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies at all grade levels and a comprehensive program for English-language learners, including sheltered instruction. Special-needs students receive resources and special-day-class instruction. La Cumbre offers adaptive physical education and services for sight- and hearing-impaired students. Approximately 500 students.
Santa Barbara Junior High School (7-8)
721 E. Cota St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 sbjhs.org
Principal: Lito Garcia
In addition to a rigorous academic program for all students, the English department offers a debate, journalism, and award-winning yearbook class. The math department has designed a unique program where students who score below proficient on the California Standards Test in math receive an additional support class. There is a technology lab that features a recording studio and technology stations for use alongside a fully equipped woodshop. It is the only junior high school in S.B. that offers advanced foreign language classes like Spanish 3-4, Latin 3-4, and French 3-4.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS: HIGH SCHOOL
Alta Vista Alternative High School (9-12, independent study only, alternative school)
215 E. Ortega St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 sbunified.org/schools/high-schools/alta-vista-alternative-high-school
Principal: Elise Simmons
This alternative school of choice serves traditional independent-study students (working, professional athletes or musicians, or unique circumstances necessitating independent study),
Middle College students, parenting-minors students (credit current or credit deficient) who do not have daily child care available, homeschool students, and students choosing independent study as an instructional strategy best meeting their individual needs
Carpinteria High School (9-12)
4810 Foothill Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 warriorcountry.com
Principal: Gerardo Cornejo
Dual enrollment courses are offered in collaboration with SBCC. The Culinary Arts Academy (CAA) works with SBCC’s School of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management to offer a career path for students, the Agriculture Science and Technology Academy (ASTA) Courses in ASTA will position students to enter two of California’s preeminent agricultural universities, UC Davis and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Virtual Enterprise (VE) is a class that teaches students how to run a business.
Dos Pueblos High School (9-12)
7266 Alameda Ave., Goleta, CA 93117 dphs.org
Principal: Ms. Shawn Carey
DP offers a comprehensive package of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Enrollment (in partnership with Santa Barbara City College), English learner, Regional Occupational Program, Honors, and special-education courses. The Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy (DPEA) provides 21st-century skills via a project-based education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Programs include Journalism, Mock Trial, Theatre, Instrumental Music, and more.
La Cuesta Continuation High School (10-12)
710 Santa Barbara St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 sbunified.org/schools/high-schools/la-cuesta-continuation-high-school
Principal: Frann Wageneck
This comprehensive alternative-education program offers a variety of instructional options to meet the educational needs of students. Classes are kept small to allow interaction and an exchange of ideas between students and teachers and between students themselves. As well as cooperative and collaborative classroom activities, each student’s individual educational needs are recognized and incorporated into the structured school day.
Middle College (not for 9th graders)
Counselor: Regina Freking
Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 sbcc.edu/middlecollege
For those seeking methods other than those offered at traditional high schools, a limited number of area high school students who want to earn a high school diploma in the SBCC environment may complete their high school requirements through an Independent Study Program while also taking classes at SBCC.
Refugio High School (alternative school, 10-12)
2975 E. Hwy. 246, Santa Ynez, CA 93460 syvpirates.org/domain/o28
Counselor-in-Charge: Dr. Lori Hope
For students who find traditional educational programs unsuited to their particular needs, Refugio has shorter grading/credit periods (18 days in length), smaller class sizes on a smaller campus, and individualized educational programs. The Regional Occupation Programs include courses in Agriculture, Business, Restaurant, and Technology. 25 students.
Rincon/Foothill High School (9-12)
4698 Foothill Rd/, Carpinteria, CA 93013 rincon.cusd.net
Principal: Kristin Mayville
Rincon conducts instruction every school day, and each student takes six classes per semester while taking on credit recovery through independent study. Foothill independent study meets on Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m., and students complete all their assignments at home or at the area library.
San Marcos High School (9-12)
4750 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 smroyals.org
Principal: Ed Behrens
There is a block schedule where students take three 90-minute classes a day with the option of a fourth class. Students may thus complete 16 classes a year instead of the traditional 12. The Accelerated Academic Program for Leadership and Enrichment (AAPLE) is a program designed to offer the most rigorous four-year academic pathway while simultaneously providing hands-on, leadership and enrichment opportunities for a diverse group of the highest achieving students in the district. Academies available: Entrepreneurship Academy, Health Academy, and Cafe Royale Culinary Program with Instrumental and Vocal Music as well as a Performing Arts Department.
Santa Barbara High School (9-12)
700 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 sbhs.sbunified.org
Principal: John Becchio
In addition to a wide range of traditional course offerings, SBHS is home to three academies, which operate much like a “school within a school”: The Multimedia Arts and Design (MAD) Academy, the Visual Arts and Design Academy (VADA), and the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Academy. There are more than 40 electives and a Performing Arts Department.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (9-12)
2975 E. Hwy. 246, Santa Ynez, CA 93460 syvpirates.org
Principal: Mark Swanitz
Whether it is in academics, athletics, visual and performing arts, occupational arts, agriculture, community service, or any other endeavor, the students have historically excelled. 1,000 students.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS: ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE
Crane Country Day School (K-8)
1795 San Leandro Ln., Santa Barbara, CA 93108 craneschool.org
Head of School: Joel Weiss
Crane’s experiential-education offerings are characterized by a thoughtful balance of academic challenge and creative expression that builds character and confidence.
Coastline Christian Academy (K-8)
5950 Cathedral Oaks Rd., Goleta, CA 93117 coastlinechristianacademy.com
Principal: Mary Osgood
Coastline Christian Academy way founded in May 2001 by parents who wanted an affordable Christian school. Biblical perspective is woven into all subjects. Students, teachers, and staff join together every morning for chapel. Started at 39 students, the school now has 100.
Dunn School (day and boarding school, 6-12)
2555 W. Hwy. 154, Los Olivos, CA 93441 dunnschool.org
Head of School: Mike Beck
Dunn is a college-preparatory school that includes a vast array of enrichment classes, distinguished guest speakers, global travel, student entrepreneurship, college counseling, a student-run café, and an art studio. 55-acre campus. 227 students.
El Montecito School (at San Roque, K-6)
3225 Calle Pinon, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 elmoschool.com
Director: Jeanine Morgan
This private nonprofit school provides academic and Christian education. 160 students.
The Family School (TK-5)
5100 Figueroa Mountain Rd., Los Olivos, CA 93441 syvfamilyschool.org
Head of School: Julianne Tullis-Thompson
Academic, social, and emotional growth are all equally important to grow good human beings with three principles that are foundational to their program: Developmentally Appropriate, Individually Based, and Group Focus.
Garden Street Academy (K-12)
2300 Garden St., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 gardenstreetacademy.org
Dean: Jessica Sanford, Kriti Dichard
This nonprofit school provides an education that enables and empowers a diverse group of students to develop their intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical gifts and to understand and respect the similarities and differences among themselves and others in their local and world communities.
Howard School (TK-8)
5315 Foothill Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 thehowardschool.org
Headmaster: Joel Reed
The Carden Method is a proven educational philosophy that presents a sequential and interrelated curriculum where the principle is that it is a school’s responsibility to “teach a child how to think, not what to think.”
The Knox School of Santa Barbara (K-8)
1525 Santa Barbara St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 knoxschoolsb.org
Executive Director: Angela Tanner, PhD
The Knox School — an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian day school — offers an exemplary program developed specifically for gifted children and learners. Social and emotional needs of gifted and talented students are respected and supported.
Laguna Blanca School (K-12)
Lower School: 260 San Ysidro Rd., Montecito, CA 93108; Middle & Upper School, 4125 Paloma Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 lagunablanca.org
Head of School: Rob Hereford
An independent, coeducational, college-preparatory day school for students in grades K-12, its innovative program enriches the lives of students through a balance of outstanding academics, the arts, athletics, and a community that celebrates the dignity and worth of each individual. Separated into three schools: Lower School, Middle School, Upper School.
Marymount of Santa Barbara (TK-8)
Lower School: 2130 Mission Ridge Rd.; Middle School: 911 Tremonto Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 marymountsb.org
Head of School: Andrew Wooden
An independent school with a Catholic tradition, Marymount has a student-to-teacher ratio of eight-to-one, is open to students of all faiths, and provides a rigorous program that prepares students to fulfill their academic potential in high school and college.
Montessori Center School (K-6)
401 N. Fairview Ave., #1, Goleta, CA 93117 mcssb.org
Head of School: Patricia M. Colby, PhD
The Montessori Method develops the intellectual, physical, creative, emotional, and social skills of children.
Notre Dame School (TK-8)
33 E. Micheltorena St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 notredamesb.org
Principal: Sr. Judy Flahavan
A Catholic education where students are taught to cherish academic excellence and prepare for lives dedicated to social justice and service, following the Common Core State Standards enhanced by educational technologies.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel School (TK-8)
530 Hot Springs Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93108 mountcarmelschool.net
Principal: Karen Regan
Mount Carmel provides a strong educational programs in a safe, caring, inclusive Catholic learning environment as prescribed in the documents of the Vatican Council II. Working with parents and the community, the highly qualified faculty and staff will inspire and nurture the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth of every child, empowering students to live ethically and morally while facing the challenges of an ever-changing culturally and technologically diverse world.
Providence, A Santa Barbara Christian School (K-6)
Lower Campus: 3723 Modoc Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 providencesb.org
Head of School: Dr. Scott Lisea
Students develop their intellectual competence, personal character and integrity, social and leadership skills, appreciation for our national heritage, and commitment to the historic Christian faith and learn to pursue truth and excellence in academics. This school feeds into the upper campus grades 7-12.
Santa Barbara Middle School (6-9)
1321 Alameda Padre Serra, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 sbms.org
Head of School: Brian McWilliams
An independent, coeducational day school with a flexible curriculum allows for advanced study in math and foreign language with placement above grade level for qualified students in all grades, with creative arts and sports offered.
Santa Barbara Montessori School (TK-8)
7421 Mirano Dr., Goleta, CA 93117 sbmontessori.com
Head of School: Jim Fitzpatrick
Teachers are all Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) trained, an educational approach characterized by independence and respect for children’s natural psychological and social developments. The school is in its 40th year.
Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy (K-8)
891 Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez, CA 93460 syvca.org
Principal: Scott Carleton
The distinctive goal the SYVCA is to use the curriculum as a means to help students grow in their expression and understanding of a Christian worldview and in their knowledge of God. In all subject areas, SYVCA strives to personalize students’ understanding of their relationship to God’s creation and their need for the redemptive love of Jesus Christ.
St. Raphael Elementary School (K-8)
160 St. Joseph St., Santa Barbara, CA 93111 straphaelschoolsb.org
Principal: Michelle Limb
St. Raphael School provides phenomenal educational programs in a safe, caring, inclusive environment. Our Catholic faith is embedded in all content areas, and we focus our lessons on the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of each child, preparing them to be lifelong learners. Our curriculum is rigorous and is taught by caring, dedicated, and highly qualified educators. St. Raphael School is committed to striving to empower all students to strive for excellence while learning to live and adjust with this ever-changing, technologically diverse world.
Waldorf School of Santa Barbara (TK–8)
Lower Campus: 434 Nogal Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93110; Upper Campus: 401 N. Fairview Ave., Goleta, CA 93117 waldorfsantabarbara.org
Waldorf is the largest independent, nondenominational school system and the fastest-growing private school movement in the world. Healthy emotional development is nurtured by conveying knowledge experimentally as well as academically. Annual class trips, integrated with the curriculum, begin in the 3rd grade.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS: SECONDARY
Anacapa School (7-12)
814 Santa Barbara St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 anacapaschool.org
Headmaster: Gordon Sichi
An independent, coeducational, WASC-accredited, college-preparatory day school with small classes, Anacapa School promotes excellence in academics and the fine and performing arts. School programs are organized in three components: technical knowledge, personal/social knowledge, and critical knowledge. 60 students.
Bishop Garcia Diego High School (9-12)
4000 La Colina Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93110 bishopdiego.org
Head of School: Dr. Paul Harrington
This independent coeducational catholic school with WCEA/WASC/CAIS accreditation promotes a Christian environment open to students of all faiths. Students, faculty, staff, and parents embody the Core Values of Respect, Perseverance, and Compassion. 245 students.
Cate School (day and boarding school, 9-12)
1960 Cate Mesa Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013 cate.org
Headmaster: Benjamin D. Williams IV
This small preparatory school with some individually designed research and directed studies projects is set on 150 acres in the foothills. Class size at Cate typically averages 12 students. Student body hails from 27 states and 17 countries. 265 students.
Midland School (boarding school, 9-12)
5100 Figueroa Mountain Rd., Los Olivos, CA 93441 midland-school.org
Head of School: Will Graham, (Christopher Barnes, effective July 1, 2016)
A coeducational, college-preparatory boarding school, Midland is located in on a 2,860-acre working ranch. Rigorous academics are combined with intensive immersion in the environment, self-reliance, and environmental stewardship. 80 students.