As a college-prep school, the academic program at OVS is challenging, led by dedicated teachers who encourage critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, creativity, and collaboration. You can meet some of our incredible faculty members on the Meet the Faculty page. Across the grade levels, students are encouraged to engage in class discussions, share ideas, and reach their potential.
In the primary grades, children develop social and academic skills in small classes, where teachers can tailor lessons to children’s individual needs and abilities. Along with developing reading and math skills, children are introduced to science, engineering, technology, art, music, equestrian, woodshop, performing arts, and Spanish. Creativity, self-reliance, respect for others, and teamwork are woven into the curriculum to prepare out youngest students for the educational journey that lies ahead.
As children move into the elementary grades, the program focuses more intently on core subjects, but still allows for exploration in the outdoors, as well as technology, athletics, and fine and performing arts. In middle school, grades 6-8, the curriculum becomes more rigorous as students are introduced to the works of Shakespeare and the core principles of algebra, geometry, biology, physics, and chemistry. In the 8th grade, students travel to Washington D.C, bringing to life their studies of government and U.S. history. They also learn valuable life and study skills to prepare them for high school. They play team sports and venture into the outdoors for longer and more challenging trips.
In high school, grades 9-12, students move on to our Upper Campus. There, students take on still greater challenges in small, college preparatory classes taught by caring, dedicated teachers. Students develop a solid foundation in English, history, math, science, foreign languages and the fine arts, and have the opportunity to choose from 24 different Honors and Advanced Placement classes (view our Curriculum Guide). Elective courses range from Competitive Robotics to Garage Band, and Outdoor Education trips are scheduled at least once a month across California and beyond. Because classes are small, averaging 10 students, teachers come to know where students might need help and when they are ready to take on a bigger challenge. For an overview of our high school, view our Academic Profile.