education guide 2012

PRIVATE SCHOOL

DIRECTORYYOUR GUIDE TO

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE GREATER-PASADENA AREA

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PRIVATE SCHOOL

DIRECTORYYOUR GUIDE TO

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE GREATER-PASADENA AREA

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10 • P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 2

WESTMINISTER ACADEMY

• Kindergarten through 8th grade

• Over 59 years of strong academics

• Nurturing Christian environment

• Small class sizes • Extended daycare

• Affordable tuition • Nutritious cafeteria

Call Today 626.720.81161530 E. ELIZABETH STREET #L-15, PASADENA

www.westminsteracademy.com

NOW ENROLLINGFOR 2012-2013

Barnhart kids aren’t just bright...

Join our community of inspired educa-tors and involved parents committed to a balanced program of academics,arts, physical education and characterbuilding. Because Barnhart studentsaren’t just bright, they shine.

Contact us today formore information on akindergarten through 8th grade education.

Barnhart School240 West Colorado Blvd.

Arcadia, CA 91007 | 626.446.5588www.barnhartschool.org

Barnhart kids aren’t just bright...

they shine.

Summer Session 2011:Fantasy Folklore & Fun!Session 1: June 25 - July 13Session 2: July 16 - August 3NOW REGISTERING!

The question of whether or not traditional schools are able toprovide the very best education to students who live within theirgeographic regions is an unanswered one, but opinions tend to fallon both sides of the issue.

Some claim public schools expose kids to a wide cross sectionof cultures, learning abilities and attitudes and are, therefore, goodtraining grounds for what graduates will encounter in the “realworld.” Others, however, point to inadequacies in traditional publicschools, including overcrowding, neglect and a one-size-fits-allapproach that can cause some learners to fall through the cracks.

Two primary alternatives to traditional public school environ-ments are non-public and charter schools. Non-public schools,owned and financed independently of state and federal educationagencies, typically charge tuition upon enrollment and exercisetheir freedom to define an educational mission, select students theyfeel best match that mission, hire teachers and determine their owncurriculum and benchmarks for success.

Some private schools are funded by churches, programs likeMontessori or by for-profit entities. Independent schools, however,tend to operate under the aegis of a board of trustees. Both types ofnon-public schools are still held to state and federal standardslevels and are accountable to their boards, tuition-paying familiesand any accrediting agencies that may evaluate them.

Many families prefer private and independent schools, becausethey tend to offer smaller class sizes, actively engage parents andcommunity members and offer different educational priorities thatmay be a better fit for some students, said Myra McGovern, aspokeswoman for the National Association of Independent Schools(NAIS), which supports some 1,400 institutions teaching more than600,000 students nationwide. Students, McGovern added, havetheir own reasons for preferring a non-public school education.

“It's often about finding a place where the student feels comfort-able, like he can be himself,” she wrote in an email interview. “Manystudents also report that they're looking for particular opportunities-the chance to take photography and Japanese, or to play lacrosseand act in a play, or to learn in a new environment, such as aboarding school, with peers from around the world.”

Charter schools also offer a variety of learning modalities andcurricula, although they are public schools financed by local schooldistricts or county education offices. Enrollment is free to studentsand is not decided by place of residence.

While enrollment in independent schools has remainedrelatively steady, parent interest in charter schools as a freealternative to traditional learning has increased significantly in thepast few years, according to Vicky Waters, spokeswoman for theCalifornia Charter Schools Association.

About 100 new charter schools across California opened theirdoors to students this academic year, bringing the statewidenumber to 982, which Waters said comprise a total enrollment ofmore than 412,000 students.

“It’s becoming more of a widespread phenomenon,” she added,speaking of the increased interest among parents in charterschools. “This has been a word-of-mouth movement.”

Parents should research the many options available to thembefore enrolling their children in alternative schools and askthemselves what model or environment would be best suited to theindividual needs of the student. In addition to looking at optionsonline, experts recommend contacting schools directly andspeaking with teachers and administrators and even arranging totour the campus for a firsthand look.

Decide which factors are most important to you and your child —whether it’s cost, location, programming or even extracurricularactivities — and keep these in mind during the research process.

If you are interested in a charter school, familiarize yourself withtheir enrollment deadlines and how much of a waiting list there maybe. Because certain schools are in demand (and because charterschools are free of cost) competition can be steep and parents can

have a long wait ahead of them. ■

More information on non-public school optionscan be found at nais.org. To learn more aboutcharter schools, visit calcharters.org.

E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 2 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 11

Exercising a choiceNON-PUBLIC AND CHARTER SCHOOLS CREATE NUMEROUS PATHWAYS TO ACADEMIC SUCCESSBY SARA CARDINE


OPENING IN 2012as a

DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION SCHOOL

• Rigorous Curriculum

• Before and After SchoolChildcare Available

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29 S. Electric Avenue Alhambra, CA 91801 (626) 282-5695

• Choose Spanish-Englishor Mandarin-English

• Kindergarten and 1stGrade

• Yearly expansion to 5thGrade

• LEARN IN TWO LANGUAGES

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• PREPARE YOUR CHILDto enter the 21st century global community as a bilingual and biliterate thinker, speaker, writer and leader

Assistance & Acceleration In Reading, Writing & MathHomework Success Test PreparationArt Classes & Enrichment Special Needs AssessmentIn Home Support Community Integration

Educational & Behavioral Services For The Individual & Their Family

370 W Sierra Madre Blvd., Ste. B, Sierra Madre, CA626.355.5160 | 866.54.TUTOR

www.totalprograms.com

ENROLL NOW FOR TUTORINGAND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Pre K thru Adult

— C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 1 4

Selected Private SchoolsYOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE GREATER-PASADENA AREA

AGBU HIGH SCHOOL2495 E. Mountain St., Pasadena, 91104(626) 794-0363agbuphs.orgENROLLMENT: 120TUITION (APPROX.): $6,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thTHE ALMANSOR CENTER1955 Fremont Avenue, South Pasadena, 91030(323) 257-3006redesignlearning.orgENROLLMENT: 118TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 3-22yrsALTADENA BOYS & GIRLS ACADEMY2151 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena, 91001(626) 345-0540

ENROLLMENT: 35TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-1stARCADIA COLLEGE PREPARATORY145 E. Duarte Road, Arcadia, 91006(626) 576-8868arcadiaprepschool.orgENROLLMENT: 50TUITION (APPROX.): $18,650 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 6th-12thARIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL693 S. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena, 91106(626) 793-3741ariamontessori.satxweb.comENROLLMENT: 72TUITION (APPROX.): $9,500 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KARROYO PACIFIC ACADEMY41 W. Santa Clara St., Arcadia, 91007(626) 294-0661arroyopacific.orgENROLLMENT: 100TUITION (APPROX.): $13,500 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thCAMELLIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL922 E. Mendocino St., Altadena, 91001(626) 794-2244

ENROLLMENT: 28TUITION (APPROX.): $525-625/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KCAMPBELL HALL4533 Laurel Canyon Blvd., North Hollywood, 91607(818) 980-7280campbellhall.orgENROLLMENT: 1,062TUITION (APPROX.): $27,220 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12th

CHANDLER SCHOOL1005 Armada Drive, Pasadena, 91103(626) 795-9314chandlerschool.orgENROLLMENT: 420TUITION (APPROX.): $16,900 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thCHILD’S WORLD SCHOOL1540 Manley Drive, San Gabriel, 91776(626) 288-2870

ENROLLMENT: 80TUITION (APPROX.): $575/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: nurs,PK, K,CRESTVIEW PREPARATORY SCHOOL140 Foothill Blvd., La Canada, 91011(818) 952-0925crestviewprep.orgENROLLMENT: 241TUITION (APPROX.): $13,445 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-6thDELPHI ACADEMY*11341 Brainard Avenue, Lake View Terrace, 91342(818) 583-1070delphila.orgENROLLMENT: 175TUITION (APPROX.): $12,350 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thDRUCKER SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT*1021 North Dartmouth Avenue, Claremont, 91711(909) 607-9064drucker.cgu.eduENROLLMENT: 350TUITION (APPROX.): $1,524/unitAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: GraduateEXCELSIOR SCHOOL1539 E. Howard St., Pasadena, 91104(626) 398-2388excelsiorschool.comENROLLMENT: 64TUITION (APPROX.): $7,900 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thFAIR OAKS ACADEMY2704 Fair Oaks Avenue, Altadena, 91001(626) 797-0758fairoaksacademy.blogspot.comENROLLMENT: 49TUITION (APPROX.): $9,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-6thFIVE ACRES THERAPEUTIC SCHOOL760 W. Mountain View St., Altadena, 91001(626) 798-67935acres.orgENROLLMENT: 69TUITION (APPROX.): $5,270 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-10th

FLINTRIDGE MONTESSORI1739 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada, 91011(818) 790-8844flintridge-montessori.comENROLLMENT: 135TUITION (APPROX.): $800/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KFLINTRIDGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL4543 Crown Avenue, La Canada, 91011(818) 790-1178flintridgeprep.orgENROLLMENT: 500TUITION (APPROX.): $25,200 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 7th-12thFOOTHILL PROGRESSIVE MONTESSORI4526 Indianola Way, La Cañada, 91011(818) 952-0129fpms.usENROLLMENT: 75TUITION (APPROX.): $780/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thFRIENDS WESTERN524 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91104(626) 793-2727friendswesternschool.orgENROLLMENT: 20TUITION (APPROX.): $8,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-6thFROSTIG SCHOOL971 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107(626) 791-1255frostig.orgENROLLMENT: 120TUITION (APPROX.): $26,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 1st-12thHARRIET TUBMAN36 W. Montana St., Pasadena, 91103(626) 794-5620harriettubmanpreschool.webs.comENROLLMENT: 30TUITION (APPROX.): $6,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-2ndHATHAWAY-SYCAMORES, NPS2933 N. El Nido Drive, Altadena, 91001(626) 395-7100hathaway.sycamores.orgENROLLMENT: 91TUITION (APPROX.): $140/dayAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thHIGH POINT ACADEMY*1720 Kinneloa Canyon Road, Pasadena, 91107(626) 798-8989highpointacademy.orgENROLLMENT: 350TUITION (APPROX.): $10,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-8th

HILLSIDE SCHOOL AND LEARNING CENTER4331 Oak Grove Drive, La Cañada, 91011(818) 790-3044hillsidelc.orgENROLLMENT: 70TUITION (APPROX.): $14,300 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 7th-12thHILLSIDES EDUCATION CENTER940 Avenue 64, Pasadena, 91105(323) 255-0978hillsideseducationcenter.orgENROLLMENT: 84TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thHOGG’S HOLLOW EDUCATION CENTER4490 Cornishon Avenue, La Cañada, 91011(818) 790-1700hoggshollowschool.comENROLLMENT: 27TUITION (APPROX.): $895/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KLA CANADA PREPARATORY SCHOOL4490 Cornishon Avenue, La Cañada, 91011(818) 952-8099thelearningcastle.comENROLLMENT: 370TUITION (APPROX.): $10,450 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thLINDSAY2450 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena, 91001(626) 666-0066

ENROLLMENT: 33TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thLYCEE INTERNATIONAL OF LA30 N. Marion Avenue, Pasadena, 91106(626) 793-0943lilaschool.comENROLLMENT: 120TUITION (APPROX.): $11,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-5thMEHER MONTESSORI SCHOOL943 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, 91001(323) 724-0683mehermontessori.orgENROLLMENT: 150TUITION (APPROX.): $850/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 2 1/2 - 12 yrsOAK KNOLL KINDERHAUS1200 N. Lake Avenue, Pasadena, 91104(626) 345-9929oakknollkinderhaus.comENROLLMENT: 81TUITION (APPROX.): $9,750 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-6th

NON-RELIGIOUS


OUR SCHOOL*1800 E. Mountain St., Pasadena, 91104(626) 798-0911ourschoolofpasadena.comENROLLMENT: 84TUITION (APPROX.): $9,720 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KPACIFIC OAKS CHILDREN’S SCHOOL714 W. California Blvd., Pasadena, 91105(626) 397-1372pacficoaks.eduENROLLMENT: 220TUITION (APPROX.): $600/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PASADENA WALDORF SCHOOL209 E. Mariposa St., Altadena, 91001(626) 794-9564pasadenawaldorf.orgENROLLMENT: 230TUITION (APPROX.): $8,600 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: Preschool-8thPINEWOOD ACADEMY OF LITERACY4490 Cornishon Avenue, La Cañada, 91011(818) 952-1900

ENROLLMENT: 16TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 5-12thPOLYTECHNIC SCHOOL1030 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, 91106(626) 396-6300polytechnic.orgENROLLMENT: 860TUITION (APPROX.): $20,500 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thRENAISSANCE ACADEMY4490 Cornishon Avenue, La Cañada, 91011(818) 952-3055renaissanceacademy.comENROLLMENT: 65TUITION (APPROX.): $5,340 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thROSEMARY SCHOOL36 S. Kinneloa Avenue, Suite 110 Pasadena, 91107(626) 844-3033rosemarychildren.orgENROLLMENT: 37TUITION (APPROX.): N/AAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 7th-12thST. GREGORYS A. AND M. HOVSEPIAN SCHOOL2215 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 91107(626) 578-1343hovsepianschool.orgENROLLMENT: 210TUITION (APPROX.): $475/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: Preschool-8th

SAN MARINO MONTESSORI SCHOOL444 S. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, 91107(626) 577-8007sanmarinomontessori.orgENROLLMENT: 200TUITION (APPROX.): $595/monthAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thSEQUOYAH SCHOOL535 S. Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, 91105(626) 795-4351sequoyahschool.orgENROLLMENT: 182TUITION (APPROX.): $17,250 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thSOUTHWESTERN ACADEMY2800 Monterey Road, San Marino, 91108(626) 799-5010southwesternacademy.eduENROLLMENT: 130TUITION (APPROX.): $30,700 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 6th-12thVILLA ESPERANZA SCHOOL 2116 E. Villa St., Pasadena, 91107(626) 449-2919villaesperanzaservices.org/childrenENROLLMENT: 80TUITION (APPROX.): $125/dayAFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-12thWALDEN SCHOOL74 S. San Gabriel Blvd., Pasadena, 91107(626) 792-6166waldenschool.netENROLLMENT: 250TUITION (APPROX.): $16,665 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: PK-6thTHE WAVERLY SCHOOL67 W. Bellevue Drive, Pasadena, 91105(626) 792-5940thewaverlyschool.orgENROLLMENT: 316TUITION (APPROX.): $10,500 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: K-12thWESTRIDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS324 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, 91105(626) 795-1153westridge.orgENROLLMENT: 503TUITION (APPROX.): $24,000 AFFILIATION: NonsectarianGRADE LEVELS: 4th-12th

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 1 3

NON-RELIGIOUS

RELIGIOUS

Selected Private Schools


ALL SOULS CATHOLIC SCHOOL29 S. Electric Avenue, Alhambra 91801(626) 282-5695ascschool.orgENROLLMENT: 120TUITION (APPROX.): $6,500 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-1stALVERNO HIGH SCHOOL*200 N. Michillinda Avenue, Sierra Madre, 91204(626) 355-3463alverno-hs.orgENROLLMENT: 225TUITION (APPROX.): $11,600 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thANNUNCIATION CATHOLIC SCHOOL1307 E. Longden Avenue, Arcadia, 91006(626) 447-8262acschargers.orgENROLLMENT: 190TUITION (APPROX.): $3,960 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thARCADIA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL1900 S. Santa Anita Avenue, Arcadia, 91006(626) 574-8229acslions.comENROLLMENT: 250TUITION (APPROX.): $7,000 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY 2660 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91107(626) 793-2089abvmschool.netENROLLMENT: 305TUITION (APPROX.): $4,300 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thTHE BARNHART SCHOOL*240 W. Colorado Blvd., Arcadia, 91007(626) 446-5588barnhartschool.orgENROLLMENT: 300TUITION (APPROX.): $10,365 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thBETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL93 N. Baldwin Avenue, #B, Sierra Madre, 91204(626) 355-3527bcslions.orgENROLLMENT: 250TUITION (APPROX.): $2,510 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thB’NAI SIMCHA JEWISH COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL550 S. 2nd Avenue, Arcadia, 91006(626) 445-4805bnaisimcha.orgENROLLMENT: 70TUITION (APPROX.): $568/monthAFFILIATION: JewishGRADE LEVELS: 2yrs-PKCLAIRBOURN SCHOOL8400 Huntington Drive, San Gabriel, 91775(626) 286-3108clairbourn.orgENROLLMENT: 375TUITION (APPROX.): $10,250 AFFILIATION: Christian ScienceGRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

EMMAUS LUTHERAN SCHOOL & PRESCHOOL840 S. Almansor Street, Alhambra 91801(626) 289-3664emmauslutheranchurch.orgENROLLMENT: 170TUITION (APPROX.): $5,700 AFFILIATION: LCMSGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thFIRST PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL556 Las Tunas Drive, #107 Arcadia, 91007(626) 294-9219firstpresbyterianschool.orgENROLLMENT: 65TUITION (APPROX.): $12,500 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thFLINTRIDGE SACRED HEART ACADEMY440 Saint Katherine Drive, La Cañada, 91011(626) 685-8300fsha.orgENROLLMENT: 410TUITION (APPROX.): $18,700 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thTHE GOODEN SCHOOL192 N. Baldwin Avenue, Sierra Madre, 91204(626) 355-2410goodenschool.orgENROLLMENT: 170TUITION (APPROX.): $11,000 AFFILIATION: EpiscopalGRADE LEVELS: K-8thGOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH AND SCHOOL*6338 N. Figueroa Street, Highland Park 90042(323) 255-2786goodshepherdla.orgENROLLMENT: 90TUITION (APPROX.): $300-350/month AFFILIATION: LutheranGRADE LEVELS: PK-6thGRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY73 N. Hill Avenue, Pasadena, 91106(626) 792-7725gracechristianacademy.comENROLLMENT: 75TUITION (APPROX.): $7,200 AFFILIATION: LutheranGRADE LEVELS: K-8thHARAMBEE PREPARATORY1609 N. Navarro Avenue, Pasadena, 91103(626) 798-7431harambee.org/harambee.preparatory.school/ENROLLMENT: 35TUITION (APPROX.): $7,000 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-5thHOLY ANGELS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL360 Campus Drive, Arcadia, 91007(626) 447-6312holyangelsarcadia.orgENROLLMENT: 300TUITION (APPROX.): $4,800 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thHOLY FAMILY1301 Rollin St., South Pasadena, 91030(626) 799-4352school.holyfamily.orgENROLLMENT: 316TUITION (APPROX.): $5,350 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8th

JOY CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL425 Sierra Madre Villa Avenue, Pasadena, 91107(626) 795-4608joychristianpreschool.comENROLLMENT: 50TUITION (APPROX.): $741/monthAFFILIATION: ProtestantGRADE LEVELS: PK-KJUDSON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL1610 E. Elizabeth St., Pasadena, 91104(626) 398-2476judsonschool.orgENROLLMENT: 115TUITION (APPROX.): $6,100 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: K-8thLA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL3880 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, 91107(626) 351-8951lasallehs.orgENROLLMENT: 740TUITION (APPROX.): $14,000 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thLAKE AVENUE, CHURCH SCHOOL393 N. Lake Avenue, Pasadena, 91101(626) 844-4755school.lakeAvenue,orgENROLLMENT: 166TUITION (APPROX.): $4,800 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KMARANATHA HIGH SCHOOL169 S. Saint John Avenue, Pasadena, 91105(626) 817-4000maranatha.hs.orgENROLLMENT: 684TUITION (APPROX.): $15,488 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thMAYFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD JESUS 405 S. Euclid St., Pasadena, 91101(626) 796-2774mayfieldjs.orgENROLLMENT: 500TUITION (APPROX.): $16,485 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thMAYFIELD SENIOR SCHOOL500 Bellefontaine St., Pasadena, 91105(626) 799-9121mayfieldsenior.orgENROLLMENT: 300TUITION (APPROX.): $20,000 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thNEW HORIZON SCHOOL651 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91103(626) 795-5186newhorizonschool.orgENROLLMENT: 200TUITION (APPROX.): $4,978 AFFILIATION: IslamicGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thPASADENA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL1515 N. Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, 91104(626) 791-1214pasadenachristian.orgENROLLMENT: 450TUITION (APPROX.): $8,780 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

PASADENA MONTESSORI SCHOOL280 S. Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, 91101(626) 792-0115pasadenamontessori.comENROLLMENT: 50TUITION (APPROX.): $575/monthAFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-KTHE PEACE & JUSTICE ACADEMY1041 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107(626) 345-0504thepeaceacademy.orgENROLLMENT: 20TUITION (APPROX.): $8,500 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: 6th-12thPROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL*511 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank 91505(818) 846-8141providencehigh.orgENROLLMENT: 400TUITION (APPROX.): $12,900 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thRAMONA CONVENT SECONDARY SCHOOL1701 W. Ramona Road, Alhambra 91803(626) 282-4151ramonaconvent.org ENROLLMENT: 373TUITION (APPROX.): $9960AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 7 – 12SAHAG.MESROB ARMENIAN CHRISTIAN2501 Maiden Lane, Altadena, 91001(626) 798-5020sahagmesrobschool.orgENROLLMENT: 330TUITION (APPROX.): $5,270 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: Nursery-12thST. ANDREW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL42 Chestnut St., Pasadena, 91103(626) 796-7697school.standrewpasadena.comENROLLMENT: 240TUITION (APPROX.): $3,914 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thST. ANTHONY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL1905 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel, 91776(626) 280-7255stanthonysangabriel.orgENROLLMENT: 466TUITION (APPROX.): $378/monthAFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: PK-8thST. BEDE THE VENERABLE SCHOOL4524 Crown Avenue, La Cañada, 91011(818) 790-7884stbedeschool.netENROLLMENT: 270TUITION (APPROX.): $3,800 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thST. EDMUNDS NURSERY SCHOOL1175 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Marino, 91108(626) 792-7742saintedmunds.orgENROLLMENT: 112TUITION (APPROX.): $5,760 AFFILIATION: EpiscopalGRADE LEVELS: 3yrs-PK

ST. ELIZABETH PARISH SCHOOL1840 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena, 91001(626) 797-7727saint-elizabeth.orgENROLLMENT: 270TUITION (APPROX.): $4,592 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thST. FELICITAS AND PERPETUA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL*2955 Huntington Drive, San Marino, 91108(626) 796-8223saintfelicitas.orgENROLLMENT: 250TUITION (APPROX.): $4,700 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL200 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada, 91011(818) 790-0325sfhs.netENROLLMENT: 660TUITION (APPROX.): $11,200 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thST. JAMES PARISH DAY1325 Monterey Road, South Pasadena, 91030(626) 799-6906sjcsp.orgENROLLMENT: 160TUITION (APPROX.): $295-695/monthAFFILIATION: EpiscopalGRADE LEVELS: Nursery-KST. MARK’S SCHOOL1050 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, 91001(626) 798-8858saint-marks.orgENROLLMENT: 350TUITION (APPROX.): $9,680 AFFILIATION: EpiscopalGRADE LEVELS: PK-6thST. MONICA ACADEMY*301 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91103(626) 229-0351stmonicaacademy.orgENROLLMENT: 185TUITION (APPROX.): $3,225 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 1st-12thST. PHILIP SCHOOL1363 Cordova St., Pasadena, 91106(626) 795-9691stphiliptheapostle.orgENROLLMENT: 525TUITION (APPROX.): VariesAFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thST. RITA ELEMENTARY322 N. Baldwin Avenue, Sierra Madre, 91204(626) 355-6114st-rita.org/schoolENROLLMENT: 300TUITION (APPROX.): $4,600 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thSAN GABRIEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL117 N. Pine St., San Gabriel, 91775(626) 287-0486sgucandcs.orgENROLLMENT: TUITION (APPROX.): $5,804 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

SAN GABRIEL MISSION ELEMENTARY416 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel, 91776(626) 281-2454sangabrielmission.orgENROLLMENT: 200TUITION (APPROX.): $3,950 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: K-8thSAN GABRIEL MISSION HIGH SCHOOL254 S. Santa Anita St., San Gabriel, 91776(626) 282-3181sgmhs.orgENROLLMENT: 270TUITION (APPROX.): $7,205 AFFILIATION: CatholicGRADE LEVELS: 9th-12thSAN GABRIEL SDA ACADEMY8827 E. Broadway St., San Gabriel, 91776(626) 292-1156san25.adventiSt.,schoolconnect.orgENROLLMENT: 402TUITION (APPROX.): $621-895/monthAFFILIATION: Seventh Day AdventistGRADE LEVELS: K-12thWEIZMANN DAY SCHOOL1434 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107(626) 797-0204weizmann.netENROLLMENT: 65TUITION (APPROX.): $10,800 AFFILIATION: JewishGRADE LEVELS: K-7thWESTMINSTER ACADEMY*1206 Lincoln Avenue, Pasadena, 91103(626) 398-7576westminsteracademy.comENROLLMENT: 104TUITION (APPROX.): $6,340 AFFILIATION: ChristianGRADE LEVELS: K-8th


* FOR MORE INFORMATION, SEE THE DIRECTORY OF SERVICES

ON PAGE 18


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The dream is for every American to completesecondary education, go on to college andland a lucrative job.

But the truth is, in California, only threeout of four students graduate from highschool. Those who do are often not ready for afour-year college. They need remedial classesin English or mathematics, sometimes in both. The vocational path,on the other hand, carries a stigma associated with issues of civilrights and equal opportunity.

Lately, experts and politicians have been calling for an integratededucation model that blends the best of both worlds. They favorpathways that will give students academics and work experience,

while preparing them for postsec-ondary education and for a career.

One initiative working alongthese lines is the Linked LearningAlliance, a statewide coalition ofeducators, employers andcommunity organizations inCalifornia. Linked Learning’sapproach is for high schools tooffer rigorous academic instruc-tion with a demanding technicalcurriculum and field-basedlearning. Students are prepared towork in one of California’s 15major industry sectors, fromagriculture to arts and frommedical technology to transporta-tion. They graduate ready to eitherwork or go on to college withoutremedial classes.

Studies have shown thatstudents who are engaged in anintegrated learning environment

learn better and faster, because they learn in context; they are morelikely to graduate from high school than students who are educatedin the traditional system, and their college attendance rates arehigher. Financial benefits have been documented especially for

minority students: Four years after graduation from high school,career academy graduates were earning more than their tradition-ally educated counterparts.

Nancy Hoffman, an educational expert with Jobs for the Future, anational nonprofit organization based in Boston, has done researchon vocational education systems in European countries. In her book“Schooling in the Workplace,” published by Harvard Education Pressin November, Hoffman looks at the lessons the United States canlearn from abroad. A hands-on learning model is one of them.

In a recent interview with Pasadena Weekly, Hoffman said,“Research will tell you that hands-on learning is a more engagingway to learn.” She pointed out that young people “want to knowwhat it is like to work” and that it is “important for them to learnresponsibility and autonomy.”

Hoffman believes that career and technical education (CTE)should go beyond work-study programs and internships; workshould be the focus of learning, rather than an add-on.

Critics of any type of CTE at the high school level argue thatearly tracking leaves too little flexibility later on and that it will behard for people to switch from one profession to another. Hoffmanhas no such worries. She counters that this only happens if the skillstaught “are really narrow” and that Americans will “always reinventthemselves as the economy changes.”

In the context of integrated learning, Hoffman sees work aheadnot only for high schools, but also for community colleges, which,especially in California, tend to see their main role in transferringstudents from high school to a four-year college.

Bob Miller, vice president of Educational Services at PasadenaCity College, pointed out in an interview with the Weekly that“workplace training is a mission of community colleges.”

He explained that PCC tries to align its program with employers’needs by having advisory committees for each CTE program workwith local companies. ■

EXPERTS FAVOR AN INTEGRATEDACADEMIC AND HANDS-ONAPPROACH TO LEARNINGBY CHRISTINA SCHWEIGHOFER

They graduateready to eitherwork or go onto college with-out remedialclasses.

Working for a living

You can have a good, authentic French restaurant that importspâté in a can from Paris and uses Caviar Helper from TraderJoe’s. But for genuine ethnic cookery — the kind that truly

reflects the time and place of its concern — you have to really knowthe territory.

Abel Ramirez was raised in a Yucatan village with five brothersand four sisters. The brothers took turns riding to and fro onhorseback around the side of a mountain to their father’s cattleranch. Each night they’d return with saddlebags filled with freshmilk, fruit and vegetables — including “avocados the size ofcantaloupes, so sweet and tempting,” recalled Ramirez, “that manyof them didn’t make it to guacamole.” But the whole family andfriends made it to the barbecue pit for dinner.

Beyond teaching freshness and family as lasting values, theenvironment helped instill in Ramirez a proclivity toward fun andfiesta.

“Dad raised fighting bulls, but they were used only for capingdemonstrations at various village celebrations,” said Ramirez. Therewas no blood, no death in the afternoon, no ear for Ava Gardner, soamong the fiesta crowd perhaps only Hemingway might have showndisappointment.

Before purchasing El Portal 13 years ago, Ramirez learned aboutwhat to do at places where very particular people congregate: Heserved for 17 years as general manager of Caltech’s Athenaeum,preceded by a stint of 14 years at Pasadena’s then-Huntington Hotel.Ask him some day about smuggling hamburgers to Ohio Statefootball players who had been sent to bed hungry. Coach WoodyHayes, the legendary meanie, had tucked them in after they missedcurfew on the eve of a Rose Bowl game.

At El Portal there are few time limits on weekend romance withmariachi, the pouring of award-winning tequilas and the serving of

signature Yucatecan and Mayan dishes such as cochinita pibil. Chef Cesar Soberanis puts his signature on pork-butt chunks long-

simmered down to juicy tatters in a classic achiote recado marinade(herbed and spiced with brick-red achiote paste, peeled garliccloves and salt as well as sweet and bitter orange juice) before beingwrapped and baked in banana leaves.

In such dishes one can still hear echoes of genuine heritage.Ramirez says he hopes to someday dig a genuine Mayan cookingstove — rock-lined, wood-fired, covered with fragrant leaves andbags of earth to seal in the heat. “This way I could steam anarmadillo in the parking lot,” he joked, “but the city of Pasadenawon’t let me.”

Otherwise, life is good. “A while back, I bought a condo atRosarito Beach, and lately I’ve been practicing retirement there onweekends and sometimes on Mondays and Tuesdays. But quittingnow is out of the question. I so love what I’m doing.”

Do any other area restaurants pique his culinary interest?

“For me, a special treat is the rack of lamb next door at MaisonAkira [713 E. Green St., Pasadena; (626) 796-9501]. My lovely wifeRosalia never eats lamb, and never cooks it.” ■

ALVERNO HIGH SCHOOLAlverno High School provides girls with a full college preparatory curriculum in a distinctlybeautiful environment. The Summer Institute welcomes students from Alverno and otherschools (grades 6-12) who desire to pursue advancement in coursework or reviewacademic skills. Alverno prepares knowledgeable young women of conviction to function intheir world with the courage to take risks in the pursuit of values, and with the ability toapply untried solutions to problems. 200 N. Michillinda Ave., Sierra Madre, CA 91024, (626)355-3463 www.alverno-hs.org

ART CENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN Art Center College of Design (artcenter.edu) is a global leader in art and design educationand the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization(NGO) status. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety ofart and design disciplines, as well as public programs geared toward all ages and levels ofexperience. For current news and events about the College, visit Art Center’s blog, DottedLine (blogs.artcenter.edu/dottedline)

AXIA LEARNINGAxia Learning provides happier school days through customized education solutions. OurDirector of Education is a California credentialed teacher with a master’s degree ineducation, specializing in curriculum and instruction. We offer parent coaching,consultations, academic and learning behavior assessments, in-home tutoring,individualized test preparation and academic advising. We specialize in identifying andunderstanding each student’s unique educational needs and goals and create customizedsolutions. Let us help you feel confident about your child’s education. 327 Arden Ave. No.103, Glendale, CA 91203. (818) 240-4044

ALL SOULS SCHOOLAll Souls School is the first Catholic elementary school in the San Gabriel Valley to offer adual-language immersion program. With two tracks to pick from (Spanish/English orMandarin/English), we offer a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing environment. Ourcredentialed teachers focus on the education of the whole child with the goal of leadingstudents to become fully bilingual and biliterate individuals who are ready for thechallenges of the 21st century.

ALTADENA CHRISTIAN CHILDREN'S CENTEROpening in the fall of 1982, ACCC is kicking off our 30th Anniversary! We continue tostrive to fulfill our mission of strengthening families by providing the highest quality earlycare and education for infants, toddlers and preschoolers; serving families of variedeconomic levels and cultural backgrounds in an atmosphere that celebrates diversity. Acarefully thought out curriculum implemented by teachers who are professionally trainedand share a passion for working with young children provides a high quality caring andlearning environment. Call Director Toni Boucher at 626-797-6142.

ALTADENA STABLESAltadena Stables is a full-service facility and offers a safe and friendly environment foryour riding enjoyment. Boarded horses are attended to 24/7 by experienced caretakers wholive on the property. The location is next to the Arroyo Seco and its beautiful forest trails.Instruction is provided on reliable stable horses by skilled professionals and trainers, whooffer lessons, camps, clinics and groups for riders of all ages and skill levelswww.altadenastables.blogspot.com


DIRECTORY OFEDUCATORS AND SERVICES



SMALL CLASS SIZES—INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION

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KINDERGARTEN INFORMATION BREAKFAST: FEBRUARY 25 9:00-11:00

840 S. ALMANSOR • ALHAMBRA • (626) 289-3664WWW.EMMAUSLUTHERANCHURCH.ORG

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For more information, contact Director, Toni Boucher at (626)797-6142.

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Celebrating 30 Years of Children: Excellence Through Diversity

A D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T

DRUCKER SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENTThe Drucker School of Management in Claremont offers a world-class graduatemanagement education through our MBA, Executive MBA, Financial Engineering, and ArtsManagement degree programs. Our programs infuse Peter Drucker’s principle ofmanagement as a liberal art along with our core strengths in strategy and leadership. Weoffer individualized, flexible course scheduling, an innovative curriculum focusing onvalues-based management and the opportunity to learn from world-renowned facultymembers. To learn more, visit us at drucker.cgu.edu.

EMMAUS LUTHERAN SCHOOLSince 1943, Emmaus Lutheran School has nurtured students with rigorous academicstandards and Christian-based life skills to produce well-rounded students whose academiccareers hold no limits. Our graduates go on to schools including John Hopkins University,West Point and USC. Before- and after-school care, sports, student government, field trips,music, art, and SMALL CLASSES and INDIVIDUALIZED CARE help students become anythingthat they want to be. Join the Emmaus family! Visit our Web site: mmauslutheranchurch.orgor visit 840 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801. (626) 289-3662

GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH SCHOOLOur church welcomes all families and children to share the Word of God. We have a youthgroup and Sunday school. Our preschool and K-6th classes emphasize reading andmathematics in preparation for the annual SAT tests given each grade. Computers areused by all the grades. Day care is also available. Please call (323) 255-2786 to arrange atour. More details, including tuition rates, are at goodshepherdla.org.

HIGH POINT ACADEMYHPA has incorporated efforts to preserve the planet by incorporating earth-friendlypractices into everyday curriculum. Students are taught to separate trash and learn howlandfills affect the environment. One year, the Lunch Bunch club studied problemscreated by trash and came up with practical solutions that students could incorporate atschool and at home. Lunch Bunch submitted their results to Lexus Eco Challenge 2010-2011 and was awarded a $10,000 grant. They were also honored with Pasadena’sOutstanding Recycler award. 1720 Kinneloa Canyon Road., Pasadena. (626)798-8989highpointacademy.org

IPOLY HIGH SCHOOLInternational Polytechnic (iPoly) is a 500-student specialized public high school, located atCal Poly Pomona. iPoly’s college prep program centers on project-based learning; studentswork in teams on semester-long projects tied into the curriculum. Concurrent collegeenrollment at Cal Poly and community colleges is encouraged. A total of 200 hourscommunity service is required to graduate. Students apply and test in as early as eighth-grade. District permission is not required. The school is tuition free. 3801 W. Temple Ave.,Bldg 128-16, Pomona, CA 91768, ipolyhighschool.org

JUSTINE SHERMAN & ASSOCIATES, INC.Justine Sherman & Associates is a nonpublic agency serving the speech-language,orofacial myology and educational needs of young toddlers through adults. We strive toprovide our clients with exceptional therapy and support, so that they may achieve theirgreatest potential. Call (626) 355-1729 or visit justineshermanslp.com.

LA MUSIC ACADEMY COLLEGE OF MUSICFounded in 1996, the LA Music Academy College of Music is regarded as one of the premieremusic schools in the world for students who desire an intimate and friendly, yet serious andrigorous contemporary music education. Accredited by the National Association for Schoolsof Music, the school offers associate’s degrees in music production (music producer major)and music performance (drums, bass, vocals and guitar). LA Music Academy is at 370 S.Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena. Visit lamusicadademy.edu or call (626) 568-8850.

BARNHARTBarnhart School offers a private elementary and middle school education for children inkindergarten through eighth-grade from Arcadia, Pasadena, Sierra Madre and other SanGabriel Valley communities. Distinguished programs of Barnhart School are the Writers’Workshop, the seventh-grade Biotech project sponsored by Amgen, Spanish at all gradelevels with a conversation club in eighth-grade, early literacy emphasis, the Virtuescharacter development program and continued integration of technology, arts and physicaleducation. 240 W. Colorado Blvd., Arcadia. barnhartschool.org (626) 446-5588

CATALINA ISLAND CAMPSSnorkel through sunlit kelp beds. Paddle along the rocky coastline with sea lions andpelicans. Hike into the island wilderness only 26 miles from one of the largest cities inAmerica. There is no end to the fun, friends and activities. Our counselors are carefullyselected, trained and supervised to be exceptional role models for your camper. The campstaff brings energy, fun and friendship to every camper, everyday. Join us this summer foryour next adventure! catalinaislandcamps.com (626) 296-4040

CHILD EDUCATION CENTERThe Child Educational Center offers a wide variety of summer camp experiences that aresure to meet your and your child's ideas of summer fun! Summer exploration camp has adifferent theme each week and includes field trips, swimming and special guests. Ourpartnership with Altadena Stables and Descanso Gardens continues with two weeks ofHorse Camp and three weeks of Descanso Discoveries. Adventure Zone will peak your olderchild's interest with trips to amusement parks, Boomers and more. 140 Foothills Blvd., LaCañada Flintridge. (818) 354-3418 ceconline.org

A CLAIRBOURN EDUCATIONAccredited by NAEYC, WASC, and CAIS, Clairbourn is an independent school offering a full-spectrum curriculum for preschool through grade eight. With an enrollment near 360, theschool is the ideal size to provide individual attention and a robust educational experience.Visit www.clairbourn.org or call 626-286-3108.

THE COLBURN SCHOOLOn Feb. 25, The Colburn School, in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, will present adaylong Early Childhood Symposium from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm in Zipper Hall. Thesymposium is a series of demonstrations, performances and lectures designed to provideinsight and practical knowledge regarding early childhood education from a broad anddiverse community. With experts from all around the country, this event is free and open tothe public. 200 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 621-4529

DANCE CONSERVATORY OF PASADENADance Conservatory of Pasadena is happy to announce that Chip and Phip Fuller will beteaching Master ballet classes for kids. They are wonderful ballet teachers, who haveproduced many beautiful dancers in their years of teaching in Pasadena. Children’sclasses will be on Thursday, Feb. 23. DCP will also be awarding 10 full dance tuitionscholarships for children ages 8 to 17 years old. Auditions will be held on Feb. 26 at DCP.496 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena, CA 91105.

DELPHI ACADEMYDelphi Academy is a K-12 school on a beautiful 10-acre campus surrounded by equestriantrails that offers an exciting summer program of fun and enrichment. Activities include,adventurous camping and day trips to the beach, aquarium, Imax, Greyhound Rescue,Castaic Lake and a wild animal show as well as hiking, sports, cultural theme weeks,movie making, urban outdoor survival week, music cafe and more. A wide range ofchallenging courses include study skills, science, math, literature, and SAT & college prep.Call (818) 583-1070.





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PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOLProvidence High School is located right next door to Providence St. Joseph Medical Center.We offer a full college prep program including, media-, medical- and technology-focusedprograms. PHS equips students with the self-confidence and perseverance to succeedacademically and socially in college and life. Our superior academics, as well as ouraward-winning visual, performing arts and competitive sports programs, make PHS anexcellent choice. Here at PHS, you will find out what inspires you! 511 S. Buena Vista St.,Burbank 91505. Call (818) 846-8141 or visit providencehigh.org.

SIERRA MADRE LEARNING CENTERSMLC’s mission is to build individualized programs to assist and enrich children’s learningskills. Through our assessment process and ongoing evaluative progress monitoring, weassure educational growth through empirically researched and validated instructionalmethods. With 20+ years of combined educational practice, credentialed teachers andlicensed educational professionals, we work to improve your child’s skills in academics,conceptualization, creativity and comprehension. Through SMLC, you can encourage thedevelopment of your child’s achievement. 38 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024

SPACE - SOUTH PASADENA ARTS CENTERChange your life today by exploring the world of art. Classes feature unique hands-onprojects, experienced teachers and small class sizes. We offer workshops and classes forchildren and adults, including painting, drawing, collages, mixed media, ceramics,creative writing, photography and more. The South Pasadena Arts Center is at 1506Mission St., South Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 441-4788 or visitspaceartscenter.com.

TOM SAWYER CAMPSTom Sawyer Camps is one of the pioneers in youth camping in Southern California. Thecamp maintains the strong commitment that every child should experience carefree,constructive activities in the out-of-doors, like Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher did.Positive reinforcement from caring adults, the thrill of horseback riding and the chance togo out and get dirty are some of the reasons that thousands of children reflect upon theirTom Sawyer or Becky Thatcher experience with fond and happy memories. Visittomsawyercamps.com or call (626) 794-1156.

WESTMINSTER ACADEMYWestminster Academy, founded in 1953, provides a Bible-centered education that honorsGod and teaches the realities of God and man for students in kindergarten through eighth-grade. This pursuit of truth and the leading of young people to an understanding of God'screation provide an alternative for families who take responsibility for their children'seducation. Our new campus is located at William Carey International University on 1530Elizabeth St. #L-15 in Pasadena Call us at 626-720-8116 or visit westminsteracad-emy.com.

ZMS THE ACADEMYZMS The Academy is a unique vocational school located in Los Angeles at Figueroa and61st streets. Programs offered right now include Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetician,Massage Therapy and Permanent Makeup. ZMS The Academy is dedicated to offering aquality, affordable and relevant vocational education that leads to personal andprofessional success. ZMS The Academy 6029 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042.(323)372-6132 Find us on Facebook! Find your new career this year! ■

THE LEARNING CASTLE/LA CAÑADA PREPARATORYReview, reinforcement and advancement are not only the primary goals of our Summer-School Program, but also the fundamental ingredients for a successful transition betweengrades. With small, teacher-to-student ratios, TLC/LCP's program is the smart choice tokeep your student sharp over summer. 818-952-8008, 818-952-8099.www.thelearningcastle.com

LINEAGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (LPAC)LPAC is a community hub offering specialized dance classes, theater, music and danceperformances, fundraising events, film screenings and more. LPAC is home to the LineageDance Company, a contemporary dance company dedicated to raising support andawareness for nonprofit organizations and making the arts accessible to all. Join us onApril 21 for an exciting day of classes and performances at the 5th Annual PasadenaDance Festival at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. 89 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena. (626)844-7008, lineagedance.org.

MARLBOROUGH SUMMER SCHOOLOpen to all students entering Kindergarten-12th Grade, Marlborough’s five-week co-edsummer school program provides a wide variety of classes. From athletics to academics,science to drama, and art to math, our Summer School theme of “Art, Smart, Heart” isreflected across the extensive course offerings. Visit our Web site at marlboroughsummer-school.org to peruse the exciting courses for 2012 and to enroll in the program, or contactus with any questions at (323) 964-8401.

ONEONTA COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOLOneonta Cooperative Nursery School in South Pasadena provides a unique and rewardinglearning environment for its young students. All aspects of a child's social, emotional,physical, and educational development are stimulated by a variety of activities, creativeprojects, and play equipment. As an educational cooperative, parents play an integral rolein the school while sharing in their child's preschool experience. Join us for our Open Houseat 9:15am March 2. Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School is at 1515 Garfield Ave., SouthPasadena. Call (626)799-3105 or visit www.oneontacoop.com

OUR SCHOOLOur School was established in 1977 and is a product of more than 35 years of experience.The materials are selected to expose your child to progressive educational steps, warm and understanding teachers provide an education to better meet your child's individualneeds. It is our goal to provide your child with a well-rounded program to meet their social, emotional and academic needs. 1800 E. Mountain St., Pasadena, CA 91104.(626) 798-0911

PASADENA CITY COLLEGEEstablished in 1924, Pasadena City College has been serving the San Gabriel Valley formore than 85 years. PCC enrolls more than 29,000 students each semester and offers 60academic and 76 career and technical education programs. Renowned for its high studenttransfer rate, national mathematics and forensic honors and extensive study abroadofferings, PCC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and JuniorColleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Pasadena.edu

PASADENA LANGUAGE CENTER Learn Arabic, Armenian, ASL, Cantonese, Chinese, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, Farsi, French,German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali,Norwegian, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swahili, Swedish, Tagalog, Thai orVietnamese. We offer small group classes at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.Our language programs include weekly and weekend immersion lessons or privateinstruction. Our classes are affordable, so anyone can learn a new language. 46 SmithAlley, Suite 240, Pasadena. Contact us at (626) 844-5003 or pasadenalanguage.com.


A D V E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T


Get a head start for next school year!

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There used to be a time when earning a college degreewas a pursuit best left to youngsters and thoseunfettered by mortgages, childrearing and full-timejobs. But for many jobs in today’s marketplace, collegedegrees and professional certifications are becomingfoundational requirements for employment. And toaccommodate that increasing expectation, a number of onlineschools are establishing programs and courses that allow morepeople to continue their education and earn their degrees fromhome at their own convenience.

The need for education beyond a brick-and-mortar schoolbuilding is nothing new — correspondence classes and televisedlearning have been historical precursors to more modern day optionslike those offered by Phoenix and Kaplan universities. But ascomputers have become more accessible, the option to pursueonline and adult education is now more convenient than ever before.

Between 2005 and 2010, the percent of students who opted tostudy online rose from 18.2 percent to 31.3 percent, according to thesurvey “Going the Distance: Online Education in the United States,”put out in November 2011 by the Babson Survey Research Group. Thestudy reports that in fall 2010, more than 6.1 million people said they’dtaken at least one online course. So far, the steady increase in demandfor distance learning options has been met by a similarly increasingmenu of online courses and educational plans.

In addition to traditional degree-focused programs, manyonline colleges let professionals get the credentials they need tokick-start their careers without having to take time off work. AtUniversity of Phoenix, where some 500,000 students learn in 200locations and online, students can choose from individualcourses for personal development, certificate programs andcontinuing education credits intended for professionals who arecurrently working.

According to the Web site onlineschools.org, 40 percent ofdistance learners across the nation have already earned theirassociate’s degrees, and another 20 percent hold bachelor’s.Among them, about 81 percent are employed at the time of theirenrollment.

Plug in and

plug away

ONLINE COURSES CONNECT STUDENTS WITH REAL-WORLD LEARNING OPPORTUNITIESBY SARA CARDINE


While convenience, flexibility and reduced overall costs aresome of the benefits of pursuing a degree online, there can bedrawbacks associated with foregoing a traditional highereducation environment. Some employers may have a perceptionthat an online degree isn’t as prestigious or worthy of respect as atraditional degree, and students who study remotely may not havethe same face-to-face contact with other students and instructors.

Additionally, not all online learning institutions are createdequal, so you run the risk of giving money to a school that isunaccredited or doesn’t have asolid reputation. For moreinformation on the importance ofaccreditation to online students,visit onlinecolleges.net. The USDepartment of Educationmaintains a list of collegeaccreditation agencies, so if youare interested in a particularschool, you will want to check tosee if they have received adesignation from any of thoseagencies.

When pondering whetheronline education is the rightcourse, you should examine youroverall goals, compare costsbetween online programs andtraditional courses offered inyour area and identify your biggest priorities at the moment. Butknow that if you do decide to learn online, a world of optionsawaits you. ■

As computershave becomemore accessible,the option topursue onlineand adult education is now moreconvenient than ever before.


Remember to say “please” and “thank you.” Don’t interruptothers’ conversations. Cover your mouth when you cough:These are some of the basic principles of good manners thatPasadena public and private schools are teaching theirstudents, although some teachers are more likely to call theselessons “socialization skills” or “character training” than “etiquetteinstruction.”

In the Pasadena Unified School District, socialization begins inkindergarten, when youngsters learn how to get along with otherchildren. “When children are at home, they’re the center of theuniverse,” said Kathy Onoye, the district’s director of elementaryeducation. “At school, they have to learn how to share, take turnsand resolve conflict.”

The district’s elementary schools, Onoye added, are teachingcharacter principles, such as responsibility, caring and fairness. “Wewant to make sure our students are good citizens.”

“Teaching students how to manage their behavior and treat oneanother is part of the teachers’ responsibility,” said Marisa R.Sarian, principal of the McKinley School, where 1,230 kindergartenthrough eighth-grade students attend classes. “How to motivatestudents and make them more successful goes hand in hand withteaching them behavior.”

Sarian and McKinley’s teachers instruct children to observe the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, citizenship, respect,responsibility, fairness and caring. Teachers and other schoolemployees can fill out a Tiger Ticket, a form on which theynominate a child who demonstrates one or more of the pillars

to receive a prize. Each week, Sarian awards a prize to one child in each class, announcing the winners on the school’s publicaddress system.

Blair Manzke, a teacher at the private Pasadena WaldorfSchool, has developed her own method for teaching studentsetiquette. At Waldorf, instructors teach a class of students fromfirst- through eighth-grades; Manzke began teaching a class of first-graders in 2003. She had previously lived in England, where

“I was really struck by how well-mannered the children therewere,” and she was determined that her new class would besimilarly well behaved.

Her etiquette lessons, which her students dubbed “Mrs.Manzke’s Manners,” included instruction in the proper way toanswer the telephone, to introduce one of their friends to an adultand to look someone in the eye and deliver a firm handshake.Students would volunteer to demonstrate both the proper andimproper forms of behavior. For example, to show the improperway of leaving the classroom to go to the bathroom, the studentswould exaggerate their behavior by slamming the door as they leftthe room, while children demonstrating the proper behavior wouldclose the door quietly.

Manzke also taught children to say “please” and “thank you” byhanding each child a piece of paper. If a child forgot to thank her,she would take back the paper and not return it until all of theother children received their pieces.

Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette authorityEmily Post and co-author of the 18th edition of “Emily Post’sEtiquette,” said some teachers will not provide etiquette instructionbecause they believe it is parents’ responsibility to teach theirchildren good manners.

“Parents should be the primary source of etiquette teaching,”said Post. “We are hard-wired to learn from our patents. “Kids reallydo learn by example, and they will emulate their parents’ actions,attitudes and tones [of voice]… If parents make time for theirchildren to write thank-you notes, kids will see why being respect-ful is important.”

Teenagers, Post added, are especially receptive to etiquetteinstruction, because children that age are often concerned that theyare not respected by others. “Teens are trying to get respect fromtheir peers and parents. They can be taught how to treat otherswith respect,” she said.

Manzke agreed that etiquette training begins at home. Parentsreally need to look at their manners and how they treat people.Especially when they are under 7, kids will imitate what theirparents do. “Parents need to model what [behavior] they want theirchildren to do,” Manzke said. ■

Character — and manners — countPARENTS NEED TO TEACH KIDS THATA LITTLE RESPECT GOES A LONG WAYBY REBECCA KUZINS

“Parents should be the primarysource of etiquette teaching,”

~Lizzie Post


Your Journey to GraduateSchool Begins February 25JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL PROGRAM ON CAMPUS IN SANTA BARBARA

This special One-Day introduction on Saturday, February 25has been designed to give prospective students acomprehensive introduction to Pacifica’s Graduate Institute’sunique educational features

Experience Pacifica’s interdisciplinary curriculum throughcharacteristic classroom presentation

Learn about the degree programs at faculty-led, program-specific information meetings

Explore the Ladera Ln. & Lambert Rd Campuses

Visit the Opus Archives and Pacifica’s Booktore

Learn about admissions and financial aid

Meet Pacifica alumni, faculty, staff, and other prospectivestudents

Explore M.A. and Ph.D. Programs in

Psychology, the Humanities, and

Mythological Studies

Space at the Feb, 25 Introduction

is limited. Register today.

Call 805.969.3626, ext. 103 or

register online at www.pacifica.edu

The $75 registration fee for this

8:30am to 6:00pm program includes

breakfast, lunch, and a $25 gift

certificate good at the

Pacifica Bookstore


EDITOR Kevin UhrichDEPUTY EDITOR André ColemanFEATURES EDITOR Sara CardineART DIRECTOR Kent BancroftJUNIOR DESIGNER Carla Cortez PRODUCTION MANAGER Yvonne GuerreroPRODUCTION DESIGNERS Rudy Luthi, Richard GarciaADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Brenda Clarke, Leslie Lamm, Heidi Peterson, Jon WheatOFFICE ASSISTANT Gina GiovacchiniVICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Michael NagamiHUMAN RESOURCES Andrea BakerBUSINESS MANAGER Angela WangACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCreeVICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS FOR SOUTHLAND PUBLISHING David ComdenPUBLISHER Jon Guynn

ABOUT THE COVER: photo by YanLev

education&enrichmenteducation&enrichmenteducation&enrichment

CONTACT US PHONE (626) 584-1500FAX (626) 795-0149MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave. Suite 200 Pasadena, CA 91105

©2012 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

5 SOUNDS OF SUCCESSChildren who learn to appreciate music at an early age are apt to dobetter in later life

7 FINDING THE FUNDINGBe prepared and persistent in applying for financial aid

8 LEARNING LINK Local nonprofit supplements educational needs for struggling students

11 EXERCISING A CHOICENon-public and charter schools create numerous pathways toacademic success

13 SELECTED PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY

17 WORKING FOR A LIVINGExperts favor an integrated academic and hands-on approach tolearning

25 PLUG IN AND PLUG AWAY Online courses connect students with real-world learning opportunities

26 CHARACTER — AND MANNERS — COUNTParents need to teach kids that a little respect goes a long way

4 • P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 2 E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 2 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 4

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It is a Friday morning at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music, andMiss Elizabeth has rolled in the big drum. Half a dozen adults sitcross-legged around the instrument, each with a child on his or herlap. Miss Elizabeth leads the group in melody and movement asthey sing nursery rhymes and children’s songs. Hands swish backand forth on the drum skin, tap it gently, bang on it fast; voicesclimb higher and drop, turn loud then soft, to a whisper. “Roundand round the garden like a teddy bear …”

The parents are engaged, moving and singing without inhibition.As for the children — they are 1-year-olds. One boy is eager to gethis hands on the drum, but a second little one has fallen asleep onhis father’s shoulder. The other children are looking aroundcuriously, eyeing parents, watching their teacher.

Are children ever too young to learn music? Studies haveshown that early exposure to music is a predictor of musicalsuccess later in life and that it can contribute positively to thesocial development of a child.

On Feb. 25, a free symposium on music in early childhoodeducation will take place at the prestigious Colburn School in LosAngeles. The public can enjoy a day of performances, expert-leddiscussions and demonstrations centered on learning theories andtools for teaching music to young children. The event will be heldfrom 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the campus’ Zipper Hall, 200 S. GrandAve., Los Angeles.

For parents who wish to enroll their children in local musicprograms, the Pasadena Music Conservatory, located at 100 N. HillAve., Pasadena, accepts students as young as 6 months. The idea isfor parents to share their love of music with their children and formothers and fathers to learn how to create music at home.

“Miss” Elizabeth Sawitzke, who teaches the Friday morningYoung Musicians class at the conservatory, experienced firsthandwhat early music education can do for children. Sawitzke startedher teaching career 18 years ago as a piano instructor for elemen-tary school-aged children. “I would get some piano students,beginners, who loved making music. They had a steady beat, they

could match a pitch”, she said in a recent interview. Invariably,these students had gone through an early childhood musicprogram similar to the one Sawitzke teaches now. Sawitzkedecided to switch from teaching piano to working with theyoungest. “I can grab them when their neuropathways are stillforming”, she explains.

Does it matter which kind of music very young children learn?Yes, says Rachael Doudrick, chair of the Young Musicians depart-ment at the conservatory. Music should include a variety of styles,from classical to folk and rock, and children should learn musicconcepts by “discovering” them. “We want them to experience asteady beat, rather than imposing it on them,” Doudrick said in aninterview. She added that music should first be experienced in agroup setting. At the conservatory, individual lessons for learningan instrument start for violin and guitar when children are about 5years old and for piano when they are 7.

At the Pasadena Suzuki Music Program (PSMP), located at 570E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, things are different. ShinichiSuzuki, the creator of the Suzuki music program, believed thatlearning to play an instrument is like learning to speak a language: Ifdone early, fluency can be achieved easily. PSMP admits students asyoung as 3 and 4 years old to its violin, viola, flute and piano classes.

Jennifer Visick, a PSMP instructor for string instruments, saidmusic classes for the very young require much parental involve-ment. She explained that very few factors determine success morethan whether parents are supportive in the music program.

So, are children ever too old to learn music? “No”, saysDoudrick. “As early as you can is best, but if a child has an interestin learning anything in the arts, there is no time like the present.” ■

To learn more about the Pasadena Music Conservatory, visit pasadenaconservatory.orgor call (626) 683-3355. For programs and information on the Pasadena Suzuki MusicProgram, visit pasadenasuzuki.org or call (626) 568-3826. For details on the ColburnSchool’s Feb. 25 Early Childhood Education Symposium, visit colburnschool.edu or call(213) 621-2200.


Sounds of successCHILDREN WHO LEARN TO APPRECIATEMUSIC AT AN EARLY AGE ARE APT TO DOBETTER IN LATER LIFEBY CHRISTINA SCHWEIGHOFER


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Funding a college education can seem daunting, but there are manydifferent avenues of financial aid available to parents and students.In addition to federal loans, which give students different paymentoptions with low interest that span many years, there are alsogrants for graduating seniors who come from low-income familiesand those who have earned good grades and other academicachievements.

Many private schools offer scholarships to students they want toenroll but who may not otherwise be able to afford a privateuniversity tuition. And, in one’s own community, there are severalorganizations that donate scholarships and grant money to studentswho meet basic guidelines.

Knowing when and where to start the search for these programsis key to maximizing your child’s financial assistance, according toJohn Muir High School counselor Nancy Gonzalez Huesser. For thepast 16 years, she has helped guide parents and students through theprocess of funding a college education.

Most seniors start getting serious about financial aid at thebeginning of their final year in high school, though Huesser recom-mends preparations begin the summer after a student’s junior year.

“Parents really need to start thinking about it when kids areyounger, in order to know what options are out there for them,”she said.

Those options will vary depending on what kind of school theirchild wants to attend and how well they perform in high school. Tohelp break down options and application deadlines, Muir holdsfinancial aid informational nights for parents and seniors. They coversubjects like how a student might participate in a work studyprogram, where an on-campus job will pay them for expensesbeyond tuition, like food, books and supplies for class.

In years past, counselors like Huesser were the primary keepersof scholarship and aid information, but today seniors can look forgrants and other help online. At Web sites like fastweb.com,

scholarship.com and college-scholarships.com, they can enter theirbasic information and find different funding available they might nototherwise have known about.

“They need to go online. It’s not like before, when you came intothe counselor’s office and they’d give you that big book of scholar-ships available to you,” Huesser said. “Kids can find out thatinformation way more quickly than I could.”

Once you’ve found the information about what funds areavailable, the best thing to do is prepare for the application process.Most scholarships and grants require students to provide copies oftheir high school transcripts along with some short essay answers toquestions about personal and academic goals, or what they would doif they won the award.

Huesser advises students tostart assembling this informa-tion during the summer aftertheir junior year. They can lookup essay prompts fromprevious years and practicewriting essays that can betweaked slightly to answerseveral different prompts.

Once the packet has beenprepared, give it to your highschool counselor so they canhave it on hand whenever theyhear about a new scholarshipor grant — often they will learn about a program just days before thedeadline and need the information right away.

And finally, advise your sons and daughters to be persistent asthey apply for aid. Students don’t always get what they want, so itpays to keep looking. With so many options out there, however,they’re sure to find something. ■

Finding the fundingBE PREPARED AND PERSISTENT IN APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AIDBY SARA CARDINE

Many privateschools offer scholarships tostudents they want to enroll butwho may not otherwise be ableto afford a privateuniversity tuition.

Finding the fundingFinding the funding


Learning linkLOCAL NONPROFIT SUPPLEMENTS EDUCATIONAL

NEEDS FOR STRUGGLING STUDENTSBY JUSTIN CHAPMAN

When the nonprofit organization Neighbors Acting Togetherto Help All (NATHA) was first created in 1991, it was a

small neighborhood watch group tucked away in a residentialsection of Northwest Pasadena, near the Altadena border.

Over the years, it has transformed into a critical supportnetwork for students and families from all over Greater Pasadena,from San Gabriel to La Cañada Flintridge.

Now the grassroots agencyis partnering with other localcommunity organizations, aswell as most charter, privateand public schools, to servean area of about 1,900 homeswith afterschool and summerprograms for kindergartenersto high school students,offering programs Mondaythrough Friday with occa-sional activities on theweekends.

“NATHA was createdspecifically to give anopportunity to all children,but especially children whomay not be exposed todifferent opportunities, totravel or go on field trips, orbe exposed to different thingsthey may not have if theyweren’t participating in a program,” said program coordinatorJalila Walker.

NATHA’s programs, designed to supplement what they’relearning in school, include: the Lemonade Brigade, an entrepre-neurial business created by the Youth Leadership Group that sellslemonade at community events and reinvests the profits back intothe organization; the Wagon Tails program, in which kids read todogs to help build their reading confidence; tennis instruction withthe company iTennis; and fitness activities with a personal trainer.

This year, students in the organization’s anti-drug and alcoholcoalition are planning to expand the Web series they created,which so far is composed of three episodes that the coalitionwrote, filmed, acted in and edited with financial support andresources donated by OnWeb Television.

For all the organization’s strong ties to the community andpartnerships with various schools, however, NATHA remainssomewhat under the radar, and that is no accident.

“We’re really in the trenches,” said Celestine Walker, NATHA’sexecutive director. “We’re at the grassroots level, and we reallywant to make sure that we’re providing the services that areneeded, so our focus is there as opposed to advertising our

accomplishments all overtown.”

She added that they spendmore time trying to interfacewith young people and theirfamilies to make theircommunity better and levelthe playing field.

“We can’t look outward asmuch, because we don’t wantto miss a beat here by beingmore external,” she said. “It’salso really complicated outthere and highly political. Wedon’t want to be derailed fromwhat our passion and purposetruly is and why we’re here,and that’s the families andpeople in our community.We’re very invested here.”

For those involved withNATHA, that sentiment is

exactly what makes the organization so special. “What struck me most about the organization was that the

people involved seemed to be genuinely interested in what theywere doing,” said Colin Burton, a former Weekly contributorwho tutored at NATHA in summer 2001. “When I took the job, Iassumed that everyone was somewhat interested in the field ofwork but mostly in it for a paycheck, as I was at first. But by theend of the summer, it was obvious that the staff genuinely caredabout supporting and enriching their community, and thesentiment was infectious. By the end, I found myself doingthings above and beyond what I was paid for, simply for thesatisfaction of knowing that I had helped in some way.”

NATHA is funded by private donations, LA County’s Commu-nity Development Commission (CDC) and grants, such as the

Jalila Walker, Program Coordinator, and Celestine McFearn Walker, Executive Director


they are about 24 years old, need a place to go where they canlearn skills, such as writing resumes and cover letters,” she said,“as well as find out what other options they have, like internshipsor externships or volunteering somewhere. Because even if theycan’t get a job, there are still opportunities where they can get theskills they need to succeed.”

NATHA’s staff is actively working toward realizing that goal ofexpanding the organization to include those kinds of programs.

“We appreciate those who remember that we’re here and comeby to offer their services,” said Walker. “That’s what it’s about,taking care of each other and making sure that people aresuccessful in society.” ■

To learn more about NATHA, call (626) 794-5889 or visit natha.org.

federal Department of Health and Human Services’ Drug FreeCommunities Grant. Jalila Walker said she’s not worried about theend of redevelopment funding.

“I don’t think it will affect NATHA in a negative way,” she said.“We’ve been able to survive here for a long period of time. A lot ofour resources come from our parents and community partnerswho support what we do, and so that’s how we really survive. It’sabout the commitment of our community partners and theparents and people who work here still willing to make it work.”

In the future, Walker would like to see NATHA expand itsservices to include resources for young adults who have gradu-ated from high school and are either looking for a job or applyingto colleges.

“I think young people who are fresh out of high school, until

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