The Buckley School, located in Sherman Oaks, California, is the oldest co-educational K–12 independent day school in Los Angeles. Founded in 1933 by Dr. Isabelle Buckley, the school has a rich history and a strong commitment to its core values, which have guided its educational philosophy for decades.
Historical Background
Dr. Isabelle Buckley established The Buckley School with a vision to provide a well-rounded education based on her “Four-Fold Plan,” emphasizing academics, arts, physical development, and moral education. This holistic approach aimed to nurture students into well-balanced individuals prepared for the complexities of the modern world. Since its founding, the school has grown and evolved, consolidating all K–12 grades on a single campus at the top of Stansbury Avenue in 1965.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The Buckley School’s mission is to nurture students as they grow into balanced individuals, equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a dynamic world. The school’s core values, derived from Dr. Buckley’s original vision, continue to emphasize a comprehensive education that balances intellectual, artistic, physical, and ethical development.
Academic Programs
The Buckley School offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum designed to challenge students and foster a love for learning. The Upper School (grades 9–12) provides advanced academics, including a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, allowing students to engage deeply in subjects of interest. The school’s commitment to small class sizes ensures personalized attention, enabling educators to address individual student needs effectively.
Arts Education
The arts are integral to The Buckley School’s Four-Fold Plan, with programs in visual arts, music, theater, and dance. Students have opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents through various courses and extracurricular activities. The school’s facilities support a wide range of artistic endeavors, fostering creativity and self-expression among students.
Athletic Programs
Physical development is a cornerstone of The Buckley School’s philosophy. The school offers a comprehensive athletics program with various sports teams competing in interscholastic leagues. Facilities such as Gilley Field serve as venues for baseball, soccer, and other sports, as well as events like Spirit Week and Commencement. The athletics program emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, contributing to the overall development of students.
Extracurricular Activities
The Buckley School provides a diverse array of extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests. Upper School students can participate in clubs such as the Anti-Bullying Club, Astronomy Club, Black Student Union, Chess Club, and Gender & Sexualities Alliance (GSA), among others. These activities offer students opportunities to develop leadership skills, pursue personal passions, and engage with the school community beyond the classroom.
Campus and Facilities
Situated on a picturesque campus in Sherman Oaks, The Buckley School provides state-of-the-art facilities that support its comprehensive educational programs. The campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, art studios, athletic fields, and performance spaces, all designed to create an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. The school’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its facilities reflects its dedication to providing students with the resources necessary for a well-rounded education.
Community and Alumni
The Buckley School boasts a strong and active alumni network of over 4,300 individuals who take pride in their alma mater. The Buckley Alumni Association, supported by the alumni engagement board, works to expand engagement and service opportunities for alumni worldwide, encouraging continued involvement to ensure the Griffin community remains robust, vibrant, and supportive.
Notable alumni from The Buckley School include:
Paris Hilton: Media personality and socialite.
Alyssa Milano: Actress known for her roles in television series such as “Who’s the Boss?” and “Charmed.”
Matthew Perry: Actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the television sitcom “Friends.”
Rashida Jones: Actress known for her roles in “Parks and Recreation” and “The Office.”
Roy E. Disney: Senior executive for The Walt Disney Company and nephew of Walt Disney.
Tatyana Ali: Actress and singer, best known for her role as Ashley Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”
Paul Thomas Anderson: Acclaimed filmmaker known for directing films such as “There Will Be Blood” and “Boogie Nights.”
Natalie Cole: Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress.
Laura Dern: Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in “Jurassic Park,” “Blue Velvet,” and “Marriage Story.”
Kim Kardashian: Media personality, socialite, and businesswoman.
These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and achievements of The Buckley School’s graduates, reflecting the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to make significant contributions in various fields.
Conclusion
The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks stands as a testament to the enduring vision of its founder, Dr. Isabelle Buckley. With a steadfast commitment to the Four-Fold Plan, the school continues to provide a holistic education that balances academics, arts, physical development, and moral education. Through its rigorous academic programs, vibrant arts and athletics, diverse extracurricular activities, and strong community engagement, The Buckley School prepares its students to navigate and contribute meaningfully to the complex world beyond its campus.