In today's competitive world, education transcends mere academic pursuit—it encompasses personal growth, social responsibility, and leadership development. St. Dominic's Academy (SDS) provides exceptional education for grades 1 through 12 while emphasizing character building and civic awareness, shaping students' values and worldview. This institution serves not just as a preparatory school, but as an incubator for tomorrow's leaders.

Located just 16 miles from San Francisco in California, SDS has attracted families since its 1850 founding with its picturesque 515-acre campus and academic excellence. The tree-lined grounds with state-of-the-art facilities create an ideal environment for learning and personal development—more than a school, it's a leadership training community attentive to each student's growth journey.

Core Values and Educational Philosophy

SDS operates on four foundational pillars: learning, reflection, community, and service. These principles permeate all educational practices. The school believes exceptional educators don't merely impart knowledge but shape values. Through learning and reflection, students develop critical thinking and understand their social responsibilities. Service initiatives cultivate compassion and civic engagement.

The academy's "whole-person education" philosophy addresses academic, emotional, social, and moral development. Students learn to face challenges with integrity and conviction within a comprehensive, balanced environment.

Academic Excellence

Consistently ranked among the top 100 schools for college placement, SDS delivers premium education reflected in its $83,450 annual tuition . The 680-member student body includes 14% international students , enriching campus diversity.

The faculty boasts 79% advanced degree holders with an exceptional 1:8 student-teacher ratio , ensuring personalized attention. Academic offerings include 21 AP courses , with 199 students participating last year. Test scores average 1246 (SAT) and 27.5 (ACT) , with 36% earning perfect 5s on AP exams —demonstrating both student dedication and instructional rigor.

College Admissions Success

SDS graduates regularly gain admission to elite institutions like Stanford, Cornell, and UC Berkeley. The class of 2024 saw multiple acceptances to top-ranked universities. The school's comprehensive preparation helps students showcase both academic prowess and personal character during applications. Faculty provide end-to-end support throughout the admissions process.

Extracurricular Opportunities

Beyond academics, SDS offers 17 sports , 44 clubs , and 19 arts programs . Music, theater, and photography nurture creativity, while athletics build teamwork and resilience. Annual events like spring concerts, art exhibitions, and sports days provide performance platforms, fostering confidence and school spirit.

Parental Partnership

Parental support remains vital to SDS's success. The school maintains open communication through regular meetings and open houses, encouraging parental involvement in decision-making. This collaborative approach creates a supportive ecosystem for student growth.

Conclusion

At SDS, we recognize education's profound responsibility. We pursue academic distinction while cultivating socially conscious leaders with global perspectives. Choosing SDS means investing in your child's foundational development for future success.

We welcome inquiries about our programs, admissions process, or any other questions. Let's collaborate to build your child's bright future.