Ramona Convent Secondary School

Background

Established in 1889, Ramona Convent Secondary School is a private, Catholic, college-preparatory institution for young women in grades 9 through 12, located in Alhambra, California. Sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the school is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, spiritual depth, personal integrity, and leadership skills. Ramona Convent is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association. The school has a rich history of over 130 years, making it one of the oldest continually operating schools in California.

Key Strategic Focus

Ramona Convent emphasizes a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum that includes a wide array of Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses. The school offers 21 AP courses, including the AP Capstone Program, which focuses on developing college-level research, writing, and presentation skills. Recent additions to the curriculum include Forensic Science, American Sign Language, and a Cultural Survey course. The school also provides a two-week "J-term" program, allowing students to engage in enrichment classes or internships, focusing on practical life skills and career exploration.

Financials and Funding

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is $17,320, with approximately 68% of students receiving financial aid, averaging $7,364 per student. The school allocates about $1.4 million annually for tuition assistance, supporting a diverse student body where many are first-generation college attendees.

Pipeline Development

Ramona Convent continually enhances its academic offerings to meet the evolving needs of students. The introduction of the AP Capstone Program and courses like Forensic Science and American Sign Language reflect the school's commitment to providing a comprehensive and contemporary education. The "J-term" program, initiated in 2024, offers students opportunities to develop practical skills and gain real-world experience through internships.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The school features a dedicated MakerSpace, providing students with resources to innovate and create, fostering skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Ramona Convent's commitment to technological advancement is further demonstrated by its recognition with the College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science Principles.

Leadership Team

President: Sister Kathleen Callaway, SNJM

Principal: Mr. Alberto Chavarria

Associate Principal Curriculum: Halina Szymanski

Admissions Director: Veronica Puente-Smith

Athletic Director: Rebecca Lamas

Dean of Students: Valerie Green

The leadership team is dedicated to upholding the school's mission and ensuring the delivery of a high-quality education that prepares students for future challenges.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within the school's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private, all-girls Catholic high school market in the Los Angeles area is competitive, with several institutions offering similar college-preparatory programs. Ramona Convent distinguishes itself through its long-standing history, diverse curriculum, and commitment to technological innovation.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

San Gabriel Mission High School: Offers a similar Catholic, all-girls education with a focus on college preparation.

Sacred Heart High School: Provides a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing academic excellence and spiritual growth.

Mayfield Senior School of the Holy Child Jesus: Known for its rigorous academics and strong arts programs.

Cantwell Sacred Heart of Mary High School: Offers a co-educational environment with a focus on holistic development.

These schools compete for a similar demographic of students seeking a faith-based, college-preparatory education.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Ramona Convent has established partnerships to enhance its educational offerings, including collaborations with East Los Angeles College, allowing seniors to enroll in college-level English courses on campus. The school's FIRST Robotics Competition team is sponsored by organizations such as Northrop Grumman, Caltech, and SpaceX, providing students with exposure to real-world STEM applications.

Operational Insights

The school's strategic initiatives, such as the introduction of the MakerSpace and the AP Capstone Program, position it as a leader in integrating technology and innovative teaching methods into the curriculum. These efforts, combined with a strong emphasis on social justice and leadership, provide a distinct competitive advantage in the education sector.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Ramona Convent aims to continue expanding its curriculum to include emerging fields and technologies, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of higher education and the workforce. The school plans to strengthen its financial aid programs to maintain accessibility for a diverse student body and to enhance partnerships with industry leaders to provide students with practical experiences and mentorship opportunities.