Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Elementary Education in Los Angeles
Founded in 1926, Curtis School has dedicated nearly a century to redefining elementary education through a child-centered approach that prioritizes academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and character development. Our mission centers on cultivating dexterous learners who embrace lifelong curiosity while maintaining healthy habits of mind and body. With a commitment to balanced education, we emphasize equal focus on academic rigor, physical well-being, social-emotional growth, and ethical responsibility. Our campus in the Santa Monica Mountains provides a secure environment where students explore 27 acres of natural landscapes through innovative programs like outdoor education and experiential learning. Accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and Western Association of Schools and Colleges, we maintain rigorous standards while fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.Our faculty, recognized for their expertise in child development, implement research-based methodologies that honor childhood as a transformative stage rather than an obstacle to overcome. Through initiatives like community service projects, leadership programs, and cultural celebrations, we prepare students to become empathetic global citizens who recognize their capacity to create positive change. This holistic philosophy, refined through decades of practice, ensures learning remains joyful and deeply meaningful for every child.
Services
Lower Elementary Academics
Upper Elementary Academics
Arts Programs
Athletics
Outdoor Education
Community Service
Leadership Development
Cultural Celebrations
Details
- Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
- We pioneer programs that inspire engaged, healthy, and empathetic young learners
- Our graduates demonstrate intellectual curiosity and sustainable habits of mind and body
- Accredited by CAIS and WASC through rigorous self-evaluation processes
- We maintain a 7:1 student-teacher ratio with developmentally specialized faculty
- Our 27-acre campus integrates nature into daily learning experiences
Associations and certifications
- California Association of Independent Schools
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Services
Lower Elementary Academics
Developmental Kindergarten through 2nd grade programs focus on foundational skills through play-based learning and individualized instruction. Our curriculum nurtures curiosity while establishing literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional competencies. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention that adapts to each child's learning pace.
Upper Elementary Academics
Grades 3-6 curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, project-based learning, and preparation for secondary education. Students engage in interdisciplinary studies while developing organizational skills and academic independence. Regular assessments track progress toward meeting state standards and personal growth goals.
Outdoor Education
Experiential learning through our 27-acre campus teaches environmental stewardship and physical resilience. Activities include gardening, hiking, and outdoor science labs that connect classroom concepts to real-world ecosystems while promoting teamwork and risk management skills.
Arts Programs
Visual and performing arts curriculum cultivates self-expression and cultural appreciation. Students participate in music, drama, and studio art classes that develop technical skills while building confidence through creative exploration and public performances.
Athletics
Competitive and recreational sports develop physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our program includes soccer, basketball, and track & field with an emphasis on skill development and inclusive participation for all ability levels.
Questions
What grades does Curtis School serve?
Curtis School educates students from Developmental Kindergarten through 6th grade.
Is Curtis School accredited?
Yes, we hold accreditation from both the California Association of Independent Schools and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
What is the student-teacher ratio?
Our average student-teacher ratio is 7:1 with specialized faculty for different developmental stages.
Does Curtis offer financial aid?
Yes, our Financial Access Program provides tuition support to ensure socioeconomic diversity.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer arts, athletics, community service, leadership programs, and cultural celebrations throughout the school year.
How does Curtis support child development?
Our curriculum integrates academic, physical, social-emotional, and character education based on research in child development best practices.
Reviews (4)
Nelly F.
Oct 18, 2019
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We have been at Curtis School for the past 8 years. Our three children started in DK, and they couldn't be happier. While all three have excelled in all areas of development including academic, athletic, artistic, innovation, and service learning...what we as parents are most proud of are the ways in which they've become strong and compassionate Human Beings, with so much GRIT, RESILIENCY, COMPASSION AND LEADERSHIP! We love our kind Curtis Community and friends who are like family...We Curtis!!! #GoCougars #Cougars4Life #
Kirit S.
May 11, 2018
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We have been here twice, now, for a 4th grade baseball game. My son's team was visiting Curtis School (the home team). The kids seem well-behaved, and the parents who were also cheering their boys on were really friendly, and nice to the visiting team's parents. Parking isn't the easiest, but the guards at the gate made the best of the situation, instructing me to park up a nearby slope, near the Headmaster's house.
Laura D.
Apr 03, 2012
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Our three children are currently enrolled in Curtis and my husband and I could not ask for a more nurturing, caring and warm environment for our kids. The academics are excellent, the sports program is phenomenal and the arts and science programs are stellar. Our children could not be happier. Our entire family feels supported and a part of a bigger community at Curtis. The Parents Association is strong and also supported by the Administration. We have found a home at Curtis and know that we will be a part of this family for a very long time.
Nancy L.
Apr 03, 2012
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My three children attend Curtis and they all started in DK, the oldest graduating this spring. It's been, and continues to be an incredible experience for each of my children. The administration and faculty really recognize the individual child and what they need as they go through the education process. Since Peter Smailes has taken over as headmaster the direction of the school has changed to focus on the needs of all the children, first and foremost. We feel fortunate and blessed to be able to send our children here.
