Private Boarding High School in Pasadena, CA

Excelsior School, Arcadia, California:
Excelsior School is located in Arcadia, CA only 17 miles from downtown Los Angeles. The school is a WASC accredited, independent boarding high school that offers a rigorous, college-preparatory education for students in grades 9-12. Excelsior offers small group learning and individual attention to students. We offer personalized instruction. Our school has established an excellent track record of graduates matriculating at distinguished colleges and universities.Excelsior provides comprehensive curriculum designed to help each student find his or her own path and follow it to post-high school success—whether that’s in college or in the workforce. The Excelsior School curriculum is varied and challenging, providing a strong college-preparatory program in nine fields of study: English, history, mathematics, computer science, science, foreign language, art, performing arts and physical education.

Academics at The Excelsior School:

English:
The aim of the English department is to introduce students to the world of literature, to evaluate literature, and provide students with the writing skills needed to communicate effectively. The goal of the language arts department is to provide students with the ability to think critically and clearly and precisely express themselves through written and oral language.

Students will be able to analyze works of literature, use proper grammatical structure in writing and speaking, write various compositions including persuasive writing, research writing, creative writing, and critical essays, and comprehend various styles of literature including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, drama, etc.

Math:
The Excelsior Mathematics Department offers an array of courses that meets or exceeds the requirements of the California State Frameworks and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards. Students are required to complete four years of mathematics. An integrated approach is offered at two distinct levels of study: Honors and non-Honors. Calculus is offered at the Advanced Placement (AP) level.

Science:
All science courses are full year. It is recommended that students take courses in life and physical sciences. In order for all students to be prepared for the rigorous SAT II/ACT, AP exam and to meet the requirements for admission to higher education there are several recommended pathways of study. 

Social Studies:
Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence. Social studies draws upon such disciplines as anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, political science, psychology, religion, and sociology, as well as appropriate content from the humanities, mathematics, and natural sciences. 

Foreign Language:
Students are required to complete two years of foreign language study for graduation. The goal is to make students independent users of the foreign language and, at the same time, heighten their understanding of cultural differences.

ESL Course:
Excelsior offers comprehensive English as a Second Language (ESL) program for international students with various ESL proficiency levels. International students achieve fluency in English, gain a strong academic background and develop an understanding of American culture.