What is the definition of a “good” school? Some parents will cite academics, while others seek schools that are faith-based or boast a myriad of extracurriculars. 

A recent study conducted by the University of Illinois concluded that the number one priority for most parents is a favorable peer group for their child. A healthy campus culture scored higher than any other factor. It turns out that those parents are right on two counts: A harmonious environment makes it easier to make friends, and learning is enhanced when students feel a sense of belonging.

Such has been the mission of Palma School since it opened its doors in 1951—to “challenge each individual to develop spiritually, intellectually, morally, physically and socially.” This holistic approach to learning begins, and is a product of, campus culture.

With the big change this year—the all-boys high school becoming coed (it had been all-boy for 60 years)—the reference point expanded from “brotherhood” to the “Palma Family.” This concept of family reaches beyond the student body to include parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters in one cohesive environment. 

The Palma Family permeates the campus. It works to make every student feel welcomed and part of the larger community. The culture of family creates an inclusivity that allows Chieftains to recognize their common identity. There is measurable pride being a Chieftain that stems from accomplishment. Everyone shares in the achievements of each student, whether it be a successful service mission, acceptance into a prestigious university, participating in a laborious endeavor, or competing well on the field, court, or in the pool. 

The camaraderie on campus also blurs lines between subsets of students. Varsity student-athletes extend friendship to sixth graders. Upperclassmen mentor lowerclassmen. Club memberships range from the youngest to seasoned seniors. 

The Palma Family is a powerful force. It not only helps students who are already compelled to do well, but also encourages others to stretch their wings by providing a soft place to land. It exercises Catholic values alongside the values of teamwork, responsibility, reliability, and accountability. 

To drive that point home, Palma launched its “House System” to elevate the student experience even further. High school students are divided into four houses, each made up of Chieftains from each grade level. The houses compete for the Chieftain Cup, awarded at the end of the year. Points are earned through academic challenges, physical contests, service hours, and club/student activity attendance. Each house provides an array of leadership positions and the opportunity to work closely with faculty advisors. 

Despite Palma’s reputation for rigorous academics, championship athletics, meaningful service—both in our community and abroad—and nationally recognized programs, the sense of belonging is the first thing students acquire from a Palma School education. It helps them feel grounded while reaching up to heaven. Powerful bonds forged by the Palma Family make school years memorable and friendships last a lifetime. Despite living in a society showing the stresses of its divides, Chieftains celebrate the strength of their commonality.

Palma is a private college-preparatory coed high school (grades 9–12) and an all-boy junior high school (grades 6–8) owned and operated by The Christian Brothers Institute of California. Palma School is dedicated to providing students an excellent education in a Roman Catholic environment that embraces the Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education and challenges each individual to develop spiritually, intellectually, morally, physically, and socially. Palma School is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA).

by Roger Rybkowski, Marketing and Communications Director at Palma School.