If you have questions beyond what we have anticipated, please let us assist you by contacting us at 805.687.2461.

Click on each question below for the answer.

List of 14 frequently asked questions.

  • What is an independent/private school?

    An independent school is a pre-collegiate, non-profit learning institution governed by a board of trustees and supported by tuition revenue, charitable contributions, and endowment income. Accreditation standards for independent schools are rigorous and are validated by a national commission.
  • What qualities does Laguna look for in its students?

    Laguna seeks curious, engaging, and motivated candidates of good character who possess imagination, initiative, a concern for others, strength in extracurricular activities, a commitment to academic and personal growth, and who are ready to gain from and contribute to our dynamic learning experience. We believe it is important that a young person make the most of his or her academic potential as well as enjoy the many opportunities available outside the classroom. Above all, we want to enroll students who have the potential to be successful and happy at Laguna.
  • What are the common entry grades for Laguna?

    Laguna accepts applications at all grade levels. Our major entry points are Early Kindergarten/Kindergarten and Grades 6, 7, and 9.
  • Educational Testing: How important is it?

    Test scores are just one piece of a student’s profile. We realize there are limitations inherent to any exam of this kind as standardized tests fail to measure a student’s motivation, work ethic, creativity, and character. Testing such as the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) provides a means for objectively assessing our applicants, especially as students come from a variety of schools and educational backgrounds.

    Please Note: Testing for Grades 5-12 is optional for 2024-25. If your child does test, submitting scores is at your discretion.
  • Do I have to reapply for each division?

    The progression from grade to grade and division to division is contingent upon similar criteria—reasonable mastery of the academic requirements and fulfillment of the community’s expectations regarding citizenship. As long as these criteria are met, no further application is required.
  • How would you characterize your faculty?

    Laguna’s faculty challenges students to ask questions and to strive for understanding, not just of the what, but the why. Dedicated teachers inspire students to their own intellectual passions. They instill confidence, challenge thinking, and frequently inspire career choices. These lessons come from the faculty’s personal investment in knowing students well. Students benefit immensely from the close interpersonal relationships that Laguna fosters.
  • What world languages do you offer?

    Students in grades EK-5 learn Spanish; French is taught in Grade 6; Latin is required of all seventh graders; and students in Grades 8-12 continue in one or more of three languages: French, Latin, or Spanish.
  • What is your college counseling program?

    Laguna’s college counseling program encompasses all four years of a student’s high school experience. The program includes individually tailored course planning; advice on co-curricular electives, extracurricular activities, and summer enrichment programs; and strategic standardized test guidance. College Matriculation
  • Is there a commitment to community service?

    The school believes that a raised consciousness regarding service to others is beneficial to all students in our community. Service learning begins in Early Kindergarten and carries throughout a student’s career at Laguna. Students participate in a variety of lessons and activities that cultivate an increased awareness of the world beyond.
  • Is there a uniform or dress code?

    Our Lower School students wear uniforms. In the Middle and Upper Schools (5-12) no uniform is required, but students are expected to dress in a manner that is appropriate to and will not detract from the tone of the learning environment.
  • Do you provide transportation?

    We offer a shuttle service for a fee between the Lower and Middle/Upper campuses in the morning and afternoon. Laguna does not offer door-to-door or regional stops.
  • Is before and after school care available?

    At the Lower School, morning care is available from 7:30AM at no additional cost. An Extended Day Program for Lower School children is available for a fee from 3:00-5:30PM each day. For Middle/Upper School, the library on the Hope Ranch campus is open from 7:30AM to 4:30PM Monday through Friday.
  • What opportunities are there for parental involvement?

    Laguna believes that a student’s education is best served when the school and family work in partnership. Parents are encouraged to become active members of the Laguna community by participating in school and Laguna Blanca Family Association sponsored events such as Spirit of Laguna: Jogathon & Family Festival, Homecoming, the Spring Benefit Gala, and more.
  • Are families asked to contribute beyond tuition?

    As with most independent schools, tuition covers approximately 80 percent of the cost of educating a child at Laguna. The Laguna Blanca Annual Fund constitutes the most important source of funds outside of tuition and augments faculty salaries, classroom materials, financial aid, new equipment, facilities maintenance, and the athletic and art programs. Periodically the school undertakes capital campaigns to enhance programs and facilities as well as to augment endowment funds. All families are encouraged to contribute appropriate to their resources to the Annual Fund each year and to capital initiatives as they occur. Every gift is important and makes a difference.

International Student FAQ

List of 5 frequently asked questions.