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Monterey County Private School Open House Schedule

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Here are upcoming open houses for private schools in Monterey County scheduled for November and December 2024, and January 2025:

1. Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School Open House

2. Santa Catalina Upper School Open House

  • Date and Time: November 10, 2024
  • Date and Time: January 19, 2025, from 10:30 am-1:30 pm
  • For more info

3. Santa Catalina PreKindergarten Open House

4. San Carlos School Open House-all grades

  • Date and Time: January 28, 2025, 8:00 am
  • For more info: 

5. Stevenson School Open House for Pre-K

  • Date and Time: December 10, 2024
  • For more info: infopk-8@stevensonschool.org

6. Stevenson School Open House for Lower Division (grades PK-4)

  • Date and Time: December 12, 2024
  • For more info: infopk-8@stevensonschool.org

7. Stevenson School Open House for Middle Division (grades 5-8)

  • Date and Time: December 11, 2024
  • For more info: infopk-8@stevensonschool.org

8. York School

  • Event: “All About York” Open House
  • Date and Time: Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm
  • For more info: 

Please note that event details are subject to change. It’s recommended to visit the respective school’s website or contact their admissions office for the most current information.

Five Reasons You Might Choose a Private School

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Monterey County has private schools offering instruction for children from pre-k through twelve grades. If you’re investigating private school options for your family, here are five reasons you might choose to go private.

1. Smaller Class Sizes and Individual Attention

Schools like Santa Catalina School in Monterey offer a low student-to-teacher ratio, creating an intimate learning environment where students receive individualized support. Private schools generally have small class sizes, enabling faculty to foster strong relationships with students and provide them with the attention they need to thrive academically and socially.

2. Enhanced Academic Programs

York School in Monterey offers an advanced academic curriculum, including AP and Honors courses across various subjects, and focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and global citizenship. Our local private schools offer rigorous academic programs to prepare students for top universities and include unique electives in fields like environmental science, computer science, and the arts, giving students more options to explore advanced areas of interest.

3. Focus on Values and Character Education

Many Monterey County private schools emphasize values-based education, integrating character education into their curriculum. They focus on kindness, integrity, and community service. Students engage in service projects that connect them to the local community, reinforcing values of empathy, responsibility, and citizenship.

4. Strong Extracurricular Opportunities

At Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, students can participate in various extracurricular activities, from robotics and theater to competitive sports and visual arts. The school’s athletic program includes unique offerings like water polo and sailing, while their arts programs allow students to explore creative pursuits in well-equipped facilities. Private schools can offer more extensive extracurricular opportunities to enhance students’ personal development beyond academics.

5. College Preparation and Guidance

The individualized college guidance process at a private school usually includes helping students identify strengths, explore college options, prepare applications, and develop interview skills, giving them a strong advantage when applying to competitive colleges.

For more information on Monterey County private schools, check our private school directory.

Exploring Monterey County’s Private Boarding Schools

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Here’s a look at private schools in Monterey County that provide a boarding option, giving families both local and international access to unique learning opportunities.

Santa Catalina School

  • Location: Monterey, CA
  • Grades: 9-12 for girls boarding; PreK-8 for co-ed day students
  • Highlights: Santa Catalina School offers a boarding program specifically for girls in grades 9-12. Known for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, the school emphasizes a balance of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and creative expression. With a strong focus on leadership, Santa Catalina provides programs like STEAM, visual and performing arts, and athletics, giving students a well-rounded education. The school’s stunning campus features lush gardens and coastal views, creating a serene environment that encourages reflection and personal growth. Boarding students benefit from a structured schedule that promotes both academic and personal development.

Stevenson School

  • Location: Pebble Beach, CA
  • Grades: 9-12 for boarding; K-12 for day students
  • Highlights: Stevenson School is renowned for its college preparatory program, offering a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and leadership. The school’s Pebble Beach campus serves high school students with full boarding options. Stevenson offers a strong academic foundation, emphasizing creative arts, athletics, and student-led initiatives, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

York School

  • Location: Monterey, CA
  • Grades: 8-12 for boarding; 6-12 for day students
  • Highlights: Although York primarily serves day students, it provides flexible boarding options for high schoolers who require a residential program. York’s mission focuses on inspiring intellectual curiosity, embracing diversity, and encouraging civic responsibility. The school’s campus fosters a close-knit community where students engage in small class sizes, personalized learning, and interdisciplinary programs.

A Great Education Starts With a Healthy Campus Culture

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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.

STEAM for Success

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One of my fondest childhood memories is baking cookies with my mom. I will forever connect the sweet smell of Nestlé Toll House cookies with my childhood. My husband’s childhood is filled with memories of learning to cook from his dad, where he mastered dishes like chili and pineapple upside-down cake. Now that we’re parents, we cook and bake with our own children. Little did I know we were setting the stage for STEAM-savvy kids!

 With our busy family lives, the idea of adding yet another “thing” can feel overwhelming. We hear so much about the benefits of STEAM activities for our kids, and some of us might think, “But I’m not a science or math person!” (And wait—wasn’t it STEM? When did we add the “A” for art?) The good news is that raising STEAM-savvy students doesn’t require fancy kits, complicated programs, or expensive summer camps (although those are fun, too). It can be as simple as baking cookies, tidepooling, or even grocery shopping!

 WHY STEAM MATTERS

First, let’s take a step back. Why should we expose our kids to STEAM in the first place? Dr. Megan Sulsberger, a mother and associate professor of science education at CSUMB, explains, “There are so many reasons why supporting STEAM education at school and home is essential for our children’s development. In my household, we focus on how problem-solving and engineering build patience and creativity. The design process can be tricky, but it’s during those productive struggles that creativity thrives. I also see STEAM as a way to show empathy—engineering can help solve the world’s trickiest problems.”

SIMPLE STEAM ACTIVITIES AT HOME

Sounds great, right? Now, how do you incorporate STEAM into your busy life? Well, you’re probably already doing it without realizing! Here are some easy ways to bring STEAM into everyday life without adding stress or complicated projects:

Science: Ever planted a garden with your child? Or watched a seed grow in the windowsill? That’s biology in action! Cooking is also a perfect science experiment. Measuring, mixing, watching how ingredients change with heat—those are chemistry lessons happening in your kitchen.

Technology: Teaching without tech might seem challenging, but it’s easier than you think! You don’t need a computer or a tablet to help your child grasp tech-related concepts. Try engaging them in activities that promote logical thinking and problem-solving. For example, you can ask them to organize their toys or household items by color, size, or type. Playing games like puzzles or pattern-matching also helps develop these skills. 

Engineering: Think about all those LEGO sets scattered across your house. Did you know your child is engaging in basic engineering when they build? Encourage them to solve a problem by constructing something new, like a bridge or a skyscraper. It is awesome to watch the creativity unfold. 

Art: Art is an easy STEAM addition—bring out the paints and crayons and let their imagination run wild. You can also engage them in design challenges, like making a marble run or a homemade board game. Heck, even tie-dyeing a T-shirt will bring out their creativity!

Math: Next time you’re baking, put your child in charge of measurements. Doubling a recipe? Ask them to figure out the new amounts. Or for younger children, you can ask them to count steps, or if your child can count, ask them to skip count by twos, fives, and tens while walking to add to the challenge. They won’t even realize they’re doing math!  

RAISING A STEAM-SAVVY KID

Andrew Bradley, a digital learning teacher at Pacific Grove Unified School District, highlights that it’s never been more important to equip children with STEAM skills. “By nurturing a love for STEAM subjects from a young age, parents can help children develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.”

SO HOW DO YOU START RAISING A STEAM-SAVVY KID? 

Here are a few tips:

  • Start early: Introduce your child to STEAM activities as early as possible. Even toddlers can learn through play—blocks, nature walks, or watching you cook are perfect opportunities.
  • Make it fun: Don’t feel like you need to sit down for formal lessons. STEAM activities should be hands-on and enjoyable. Let your child lead the way with their interests!
  • Encourage curiosity: Ask open-ended questions like, “Why do you think this plant is growing faster?” or “What do you think would happen if we changed this ingredient?” Let them discover answers through experimentation.
  • Provide exploration opportunities: Take your child to a science museum or explore different STEAM fields through books, online videos, or local events. Let them find what excites them most.
  • Support mistakes: Encourage your child to make mistakes, try again, and find different solutions. Emphasize that failure is just part of the process!

EMBRACE STEAM IN EVERYDAY LIFE

Raising a STEAM-savvy student doesn’t have to be complicated! Dr. Sandra Varajic, STEAM and robotics expert, says, “Raising a STEAM-savvy student starts with diverse experiences. Give your child the time and space to explore STEAM activities at home and in the community. It’s all about supporting them when mistakes happen and encouraging them to iterate solutions to problems. Engaging children in problem-solving and the design process naturally supports their learning in a STEAM- and project-based way.” Sharon Cavanagh, a FAA Part 107 remote pilot, educator, and photographer, shares that connections to literacy like exposing children to STEAM-inspired stories—books, movies, and television shows—can introduce STEAM themes in a fun and approachable way. Storytelling and choosing stories about inventors, astronauts, or detectives who are solving problems can spark curiosity! 

So whether you’re baking cookies, building with LEGOs, reading detective stories, or exploring the world outside, know that you’re laying the foundation for a bright, STEAM-filled future for your child. And the best part? It’s FUN—for everyone!!!!

A Few Things To Consider When Choosing A Catholic School Education

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Choosing a Catholic school for your children can provide a unique educational experience that goes beyond academics. Here are some aspects to consider:

Religious Education

Catholic schools integrate religious education into the curriculum, and students typically participate in Mass, prayer, and religious activities. If you’re not Catholic, be sure to understand how this aspect aligns with your values and preferences.

At San Carlos School in Monterey, California, children of all faiths are welcome but are required to participate in daily religion classes. According to spokesperson Carolyn Schanzer, Marketing and Development Director: “We teach traditional Catholic beliefs and respond to God’s call by welcoming culturally, economically, and religiously diverse families. We collaborate with parents, the first educators, to foster the holistic development of the learners, create an environment in which diversity flourishes, and help students unveil their full potential. We encourage students to share their faiths with their classes, which enriches the curriculum and reinforces an atmosphere of equity and inclusion.”

At Santa Catalina in Monterey, students of all faiths are welcome and attend a once-monthly Mass.

Values-Based Education

Catholic schools emphasize values such as compassion, community service, and moral development. If you are interested in having these principles reinforced in your child’s education, it can be a positive aspect of the experience.

At Palma School in Salinas, students are challenged to develop spiritually, intellectually, morally, physically, and socially—accomplished by offering opportunities focused on each of these disciplines.

Academic Excellence

Catholic schools have an earned reputation for academic excellence. According to Niche.com, the Catholic schools in Monterey County are overwhelmingly rated as “A” schools, with the vast majority of students going on to college after high school graduation.

At Santa Catalina, the emphasis of the Lower School curriculum is educating the whole child. While offering an excellent academic program, the Lower School also emphasizes the arts, music, physical education, technology, and character education.

When researching schools for your child consider the school’s academic programs, resources, and any special offerings. Look at the school’s performance on standardized tests and graduation rates.

Community and Involvement

Catholic schools often foster a strong sense of community among students, parents, and teachers. Look into the level of parental involvement encouraged by the school and how it aligns with your preferences.

Community outreach is another important facet of a Catholic school education. At Palma School, a nationally recognized program offers students the opportunity to provide and experience compassion and fellowship through literature and reflection at Soledad State Prison.

At San Carlos, students have participated in the HUG project, made an angel tree for those needing prayers, routinely made cards for families battling cancer in the community, and hid painted “Love Rocks” to spread love throughout the school and community.

Other projects range from making placemats for Meals on Wheels to contributing to The Crayon Initiative to assisting in the Cleaning the Earth project.

They also commit as a school community to a Thanksgiving Food Drive. The goal is to fill the principal’s office with bags of groceries so that she cannot reach her desk. Collected food is distributed to several food pantries on the Monterey Peninsula.

As early as pre-K, Santa Catalina students learn to lead by example and see themselves as effective change-makers. Through participation in service projects, they strive to make an impact on communities near and far. Throughout the year, students prepare for, implement, and reflect on a variety of service opportunities. These range from school-wide service projects to Projects of Passion adopted by each classroom.

Recent projects include Christmas caroling at local senior living facilities, participation in the JDRF One Walk in support of type 1 diabetes research, food drives for the Food Bank for Monterey County, coat drives for the Salvation Army, and Braxton’s Toy Drive.

Tuition and Fees

In general, Catholic schools are considered private schools and do charge tuition, although they can be less expensive than many typical private schools. They also offer financial aid. At Santa Catalina, for instance, 45 percent of families received financial aid in the 2022–2023 school year. The financial aid comes in the form of grants, not loans, which means a real reduction in the cost of education.

Before making a decision, visit the schools you are considering several times, meet with teachers and administrators, and ask questions to ensure that the school aligns with your values and expectations for your child’s education.

Catholic Schools Week offers a unique opportunity to investigate Catholic education to find out if it is a right fit for your family. Catholic Schools Week begins on the last Sunday in January and runs for an entire week. In 2025, it will be celebrated from January 26 to 1. Many area Catholic schools are offering open houses or other special events. Contact the school you are interested in for additional information.

To read more about our recommended Monterey County Catholic schools.

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