Nestled among the hills surrounding Santa Barbara, California, Cate School has stood as a beacon of academic excellence and character development since its founding in 1910. This co-educational boarding school combines rigorous college preparation with a commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals.
A Distinctive Approach to Admissions
Cate School's admissions philosophy extends beyond academic achievement. The institution actively seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and engage enthusiastically in classroom discussions. The school values applicants who take responsibility for their personal growth, show genuine concern for others, and demonstrate a willingness to contribute meaningfully to campus life. This approach fosters not only academic success but also essential social skills and interpersonal abilities crucial for future development.
A Diverse and Vibrant Community
The school's 265 students represent a remarkable tapestry of backgrounds, with 83% residing on campus. Hailing from 22 U.S. states and 19 countries, the student body reflects impressive academic strength and cultural diversity. With 34% domestic students of color and 41% international students, classroom discussions frequently benefit from dynamic exchanges of worldviews, enriching the educational experience through diverse perspectives.
Educational Philosophy and Values
Cate School's mission embodies what its founder called "the spirit of this place" - a commitment to beauty and virtue, quiet study, active participation, and hard work. The school encourages students to pursue excellence while supporting one another's growth. Education at Cate extends beyond knowledge transmission to developing socially responsible individuals who explore their interests with creativity and curiosity.
The supportive environment fosters intellectual risk-taking, with faculty encouraging independent thinking and respectful expression of differing viewpoints. This nurturing atmosphere helps students discover the joy of learning while unlocking their academic potential.
Beyond the Classroom
Cate's commitment to holistic development includes robust arts and athletics programs. Students participate in visual arts, music, theater, and various sports, developing creative expression, physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills. These activities help students uncover hidden talents, build lasting friendships, and cultivate healthy lifestyles.
Academic Excellence
Cate's curriculum spans foundational mathematics and sciences to advanced humanities and foreign languages, taught by subject-matter experts who employ personalized instruction. The school emphasizes critical thinking, writing proficiency, and effective communication - skills essential for professional success. Technology and innovation are integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare students for modern challenges.
Regular academic events like lectures, science fairs, and debates provide practical learning opportunities that bridge theory and practice, laying a solid foundation for future careers.
Supporting the Whole Student
The school maintains a counseling center to support students' emotional well-being, helping them develop healthy coping strategies. This caring environment allows students to thrive personally and academically while expressing their unique identities.
Commitment to Service
Cate emphasizes community service, with students participating in various volunteer activities that cultivate social responsibility, empathy, and teamwork. These experiences instill lifelong values of compassion and civic engagement.
Through its rigorous academics and humanistic approach, Cate School provides unparalleled opportunities for growth. The institution's mission, curriculum, and diverse culture demonstrate profound respect for individual development. Students emerge not merely as knowledge recipients but as thinkers and creators who discover their passions and become contributing members of society.