The Athenian School

School:	The Athenian School
Address:	2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. Danville, CA 94506 USA
Phone:	(925) 837-5375
E-Mail:	admission@athenian.org
Website:	http://www.athenian.org
Director:	Mr. Christopher Beeson, Director of Admission/Financial Aid
Head:	Ms. Eleanor Dase, Head of School

Offering the San Francisco Bay Area’s only nonsectarian boarding program, Athenian develops “compassionate responsible adults…prepared for the rigors of college and lives of purpose and personal fulfillment.” Average class size: 15 students. Since its founding, Athenian has been recognized for its exceptional integration of strong college preparatory academics with an innovative, challenging curriculum. Our diverse and international community of 450 day and boarding students in grades 6 – 12 benefits from small classes which average 15 students. In Athenian’s idyllic setting, students celebrate learning through relationships, exploration, hands-on projects, service and adventure, in addition to their work in the classroom. Distinctive features: international programs, town meeting, community service (required), and the Athenian Wilderness Experience (required). Virtually 100% gain admission to outstanding 4-year colleges and universities. The Athenian experience engages students in their intellectual and social development as it expands their individual capacities and global perspectives. Athenian inspires students to become life-long learners and confident, successful adults with a deep understanding of themselves, extraordinary skills for achievement, and the compassion to make a positive difference in the world.

Type:	coed/ boarding/day
Grades:	6-12
Enrollment:	450

Athenian offers a challenging engaging curriculum and outstanding distinctive programs. The school prepares students well for college, as well as for a life of purpose and personal fulfillment. Athenian develops and broadens students’ understanding of themselves and the world. It is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the California Association of Independent Schools.

For complete information about curriculum and programs, use the Quick Links listed in the menu to the right. Alternately, contact the Admission Office to request information by phone at 925-362-7223 or fax at 925-362-7228.

Athenian seeks students who enjoy academic challenge, appreciate and support Athenian’s mission, and have the ability to contribute to the school community. In addition to the academic curriculum, Athenian’s program includes two distinctive graduation requirements: annual community service, and the eleventh-grade Athenian Wilderness Experience (AWE). In addition, Athenian offers Round Square international programs (exchanges, community service projects, and annual conferences), town meeting, and an on-campus residential community (international and domestic boarding students, as well as faculty and their families). Other vital programs include the fine and performing arts, athletics, debate, and robotics, as well as an airplane construction project. Transportation and financial aid make Athenian accessible to students from a wide range of East Bay communities.

How to Apply

Applications to The Athenian School can be started online by setting up a user account with Infosnap, which is online application service provider. Please click the Apply Online link listed in the Quick Links menu to the right. To request an application packet by mail, phone 925-362-7223. Please note that admission mailings are sent every seven to 10 days.

International students may click here for international program information.

The Application Process

Applications include transcripts, recommendations, admission testing and interviews, as well as parent and student essays. Applications are evaluated without consideration of financial need. Please visit the Quick Links at the top of this page for detailed information on the application process.

Required Campus Visits

Campus visits begin in late September each year and allow prospective students to observe several classes and to meet current students. To schedule the required visit, email admission@athenian.org with two or three possible days or phone to schedule a visit. For Middle School applicants (grades 6 to 8), phone 925-362-7239 or 925-362-7254. For Upper School applicants (grades 9 to 12), phone 925-362-7223. International students are encouraged to visit, as well, but it is not required.