Welcome to Upper School

“A mind once stretched never regains its original dimensions.”  ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes

Harry Sims, Head of Upper School

The Upper School is a place where enthusiasm, humor, and persistence are found in equal measure. While the academic program is challenging, the prevailing atmosphere is one of cooperation and mutual support. Our quiet campus setting amidst oaks and open space minimizes distractions and allows students to maintain a primary focus on academics. An advisory system ensures that faculty and administrators know our students well.

The School is committed to keeping its curriculum geared to the needs of 21st century graduates. Every year, course content is evaluated, new texts are selected, innovative electives are developed, and technology resources updated. We offer a full array of honors and Advanced Placement courses, and enrichment assemblies and guest speakers are a weekly occurrence.

Opportunities for leadership roles abound in the Upper School through participation in ASB government, three student publications, theatrical productions, and the many clubs and activities open to all grade levels. Because of the School’s no-cut athletics policy, students can also play a variety of sports. Laguna competes in the Condor League and fields teams in three different seasons.

A distinctive feature of the Upper School is the class trips program. By the time our students enter their senior year, they will have visited over a dozen major museums in southern California. In addition, they will have toured several colleges and attended dramatic productions at major venues. At the end of their fourth year, Laguna graduates have enjoyed a broad range of experiences and are well prepared to pursue their education at the next level.