Set against the picturesque backdrop of San Marino, California, where red-tiled roofs meet the horizon and Spanish-style architecture frames the snow-capped mountains, Southwestern Academy has quietly cultivated a learning environment that values both tradition and innovation.
Founded in 1924, the school has consistently provided a rigorous academic experience in a supportive, multicultural environment. For nearly a century, the private co-educational college preparatory school has nurtured students from across the globe, providing a personalized academic experience in a setting that feels intimate yet boundless in opportunity.
On Tuesday, February 18, Southwestern Academy will host two Virtual Open House sessions at 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. PST, providing prospective students and their families with an opportunity to engage with faculty, school leadership, and current students. The event aims to offer insight into the school’s academic programs and vibrant community.
Founded in 1924, Southwestern Academy serves students in grades 6 through 12 with a focus on small class sizes, individualized learning, and a diverse student body. The school enrolls approximately 100 students in grades 6 through 12, with about 70% of them boarding and 30% attending as day students from local communities. The student body represents nearly fifteen different countries. About 30% of the student population consists of local day students. Its curriculum includes an English Language Learners (ELL) program to support international students in achieving language proficiency, as explicitly stated in the source document.. The school enrolls approximately 100 students in grades 6 through 12, with 70% of its population comprising boarding students from nearly fifteen different countries. Its curriculum, designed to accommodate varying learning styles, includes specialized programs such as an English Language Learners (ELL) track to support international students in achieving language proficiency.
“We actually have two Virtual Open House on Tuesday. These events provide an excellent opportunity to engage with our leadership team, faculty, and students, while learning about our school’s unique programs and offerings.” says Daisy Lopez-Barrios, Admissions & Marketing representative and a 2013 alumna.
Attendees are encouraged to prepare questions in advance to maximize their engagement with presenters.
Beyond its strong academic foundation, Southwestern Academy fosters an environment where students are encouraged to explore extracurricular pursuits, leadership opportunities, and community engagement. Whether through student government, clubs, athletics, or field trips, the academy emphasizes the development of well-rounded individuals who are prepared for higher education and a globalized world.
For families considering a boarding school education, the Virtual Open House provides a rare opportunity to evaluate how Southwestern Academy balances academic rigor with a warm and inclusive student experience. The school emphasizes its four guiding principles: “Valuing the Individual,” “Contributing to the Whole,” “Expanding Opportunities,” and “Preparing for the Future,” as explicitly stated in the source document.
In a world where educational landscapes are shifting, the school’s guiding principles—Valuing the Individual, Contributing to the Whole, Expanding Opportunities, and Preparing for the Future—continue to shape a curriculum that prioritizes both intellectual and personal growth.
Interested participants can register for the Virtual Open House sessions via the following links:
9:00 AM PST Session
4:00 PM PST Session
For additional information, contact Daisy Lopez-Barrios, Admissions & Marketing representative, at (626) 799-5010 or via WhatsApp at (626) 390-4505. She is also available on WeChat (dl_swa1924) and Line (dbsouthwestern).
Southwestern Academy, 2800 Monterey Road, San Marino, CA. Phone: (626) 799-5010. Website: southwesternacademy.edu.
