The Thacher School, a coeducational boarding high school perched at the foot of the Topatopa Mountains in Ojai, California, is anything but typical. Here, students encounter a combination they won’t find anywhere else: demanding academics, tough character-building challenges, and a healthy, authentic community culture that supports them every step of the way. It’s how Thacher succeeds in shaping resilient, compassionate, and ambitious young men and women who are prepared to take on the challenges of today’s world. We invite you to dive in and see for yourself what makes Thacher, Thacher.
Unique Characteristics
Capitalizing on Thacher’s location at the edge of a national forest, the School’s signature Horse and Outdoor Programs help students pursue adventure and fun in the company of friends while they also develop their abilities, independence, and leadership skills.
A brand new creativity and technology facility anchors a flexible academic program that emphasizes hands-on, interdisciplinary, applied learning experiences. For example, Thacher astronomy students collaborate with university astrophysicists using our research-grade observatory; biology students work closely with the staff a nearby chelonian conservation center to better understand and protect endangered turtles; and humanities and arts classes tackle pressing social issues with primary research, multimedia presentations, and educated activism.