Viewpoint School, located in Calabasas, California, is a prestigious independent, coeducational day school serving students from Transitional Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade. Founded in 1961, the school has established a reputation for academic excellence, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and a commitment to character development.
History and Founding
Viewpoint School was established in 1961 by a group of dedicated educators and parents, including Mr. Clyde and Mrs. Margaret Hennell, Mrs. Mary Carpenter, Mr. Richard Leonard, and Mrs. Betty Yarnell. The school initially operated in Encino, California, leasing buildings to accommodate its students. The first principal was Ms. Thelma Sitton. As the school grew, it relocated to Platt Avenue in Woodland Hills before finally settling in Calabasas in 1965. The initial Calabasas campus comprised three trailers, which housed grades 6, 7, and 8. Over time, the campus expanded to include facilities for lower school students, establishing a permanent home for the entire student body.
Campus and Facilities
Situated on a 40-acre campus at 23620 Mulholland Highway, Viewpoint School boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to support a comprehensive educational experience. The campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, art studios, and technology centers. Specialized spaces such as the Innovation Space and Robotics Lab provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in STEM fields. Athletic facilities include gyms, swimming pools, and the Peak Performance Center (PPC), an 1,800-square-foot facility dedicated to conditioning, cardio fitness, sports medicine, and injury prevention.
Academic Programs
Viewpoint School offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. The academic structure is divided into four divisions: Primary School (Transitional Kindergarten-2), Lower School (Grades 3-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), and Upper School (Grades 9-12). Each division is tailored to meet the developmental needs of its students, ensuring a seamless progression through the educational journey.
In the Upper School, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, allowing them to pursue subjects in depth and prepare for higher education. The school’s commitment to STEM education is evident through dedicated programs and facilities that nurture students’ passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Extracurricular Activities
Viewpoint School offers a diverse array of extracurricular programs that encourage students to explore their interests and develop new talents. The athletics program features numerous sports teams, promoting teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. The arts program provides avenues for creative expression through theater, music, visual arts, and film. Additionally, a variety of student-led clubs and organizations cater to a wide range of interests, fostering a vibrant and inclusive school community.
Community and School Culture
Viewpoint School prides itself on being a caring community that inspires, supports, and challenges its students. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement, instilling values such as integrity, respect, and responsibility. With a student body of approximately 1,215 students, including 545 in the high school, the school maintains a supportive environment where students are encouraged to engage actively in their education and personal growth.
Admissions and Financial Aid
Viewpoint School seeks to enroll students who demonstrate academic potential, character, and a willingness to engage in the school’s vibrant community. The admissions process is comprehensive, considering various aspects of a student’s profile, including academic records, extracurricular involvement, and personal interviews. The school offers financial aid to qualified families, ensuring that a diverse range of students can benefit from the exceptional education it provides.
Conclusion
Viewpoint School stands as a beacon of educational excellence in Calabasas, offering a comprehensive and holistic education that prepares students for the challenges of the future. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to character development, Viewpoint continues to inspire and empower students to lead lives of impact and purpose.