Saint Monica Preparatory

Background

Saint Monica Preparatory, established in 1930, is a co-educational Catholic school located in Santa Monica, California. In the 2022–2023 academic year, the institution unified its elementary and high school divisions into a single Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade (TK-12) educational entity. This consolidation aims to provide a dynamic, cohesive, and comprehensive learning environment where students are known, seen, challenged, and nurtured. The school's mission is to foster the holistic development of students—intellectually, spiritually, and physically—within a diverse Catholic community.

Key Strategic Focus

Saint Monica Preparatory emphasizes a well-rounded education that integrates rigorous academic standards with character and spiritual formation. The curriculum is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, incorporating laboratories, athletic fields, stages, parish activities, and the natural environment surrounding the campus. The school offers a variety of programs, including Pathway Programs in Computer Science & Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Visual Media & Performing Arts, as well as the Mariner Ocean Research Institute (MORI), where students engage in multi-year collaborative research projects.

Financials and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2024–2025 academic year are as follows:

Transitional Kindergarten (TK): $11,182

Kindergarten to 5th Grade: $9,482

6th to 8th Grade: $10,482

9th to 12th Grade: $15,565

International Students (9th to 12th Grade): $20,000

Approximately 47% of students receive financial aid, with an average award of $5,906.

Pipeline Development

Saint Monica Preparatory continually enhances its educational offerings through the development of specialized programs and facilities. The school is currently renovating its auditorium to create a state-of-the-art performance space for dance, music, theatre, spoken word, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Additionally, the institution offers a series of Mariner Sports Camps during the summer, providing students with opportunities to engage in various athletic activities.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The school integrates technology into its curriculum through various initiatives:

Pathway Programs: Specialized courses in Computer Science & Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Visual Media & Performing Arts.

Mariner Ocean Research Institute (MORI): Students participate in multi-year collaborative research projects presented to the scientific community.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Offering 12 AP courses to challenge students academically.

Dual Enrollment Programs: Partnerships with local colleges, such as Santa Monica College, allow students to earn college credits while in high school.

Leadership Team

Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson: Pastor, St. Monica Catholic Community

Dn. Kevin McCardle, Ph.D.: President

Dr. Neil Quinly: Principal, Lower School

Mr. James Spellman: Principal, Upper School

Mary Flaherty: Chairperson

Veronica Grazer: Vice-Chair

Daniel O’Brien: Secretary

Mary Byrnes: Advisor (non-voting)

Nicole Sinkys: MPA Advisor (non-voting)

The leadership team is committed to providing a nurturing and challenging educational environment that aligns with the school's mission and values.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private education sector in Santa Monica, California, is competitive, with several institutions offering diverse educational programs. Parents seek schools that provide rigorous academics, extracurricular opportunities, and strong community values.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences: Offers a K-12 program with a strong emphasis on arts and sciences.

Pacifica Christian High School: Provides a faith-based education with a focus on liberal arts.

Notre Dame Academy High School: An all-girls Catholic school emphasizing college preparatory education.

Notre Dame High School: A co-educational Catholic school known for its academic excellence and athletic programs.

These institutions offer various programs and extracurricular activities, catering to the diverse needs of students and parents in the region.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Saint Monica Preparatory has established partnerships to enhance its educational offerings:

Core Prep Academy: Provides elite athletic training during school hours, allowing students to balance academics and sports effectively.

Santa Monica College: Offers dual enrollment programs, enabling students to earn college credits while completing high school.

Operational Insights

The school's strategic location in Santa Monica, just seven blocks from the beach, provides a unique environment for experiential learning. The integration of faith-based education with a comprehensive academic curriculum positions Saint Monica Preparatory as a distinctive choice for families seeking a holistic educational experience.