Business Details
Innovative High School Education
Founded with a commitment to reimagining high school education, Vistamar School prioritizes innovative teaching methods and personalized student support. Our faculty fosters intellectual curiosity and real-world preparedness through small class sizes, a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and a curriculum emphasizing critical thinking and creativity. We offer 18 AP/Honors courses and maintain a 20:1 student-to-college-counselor ratio to ensure tailored guidance for higher education. With 49% of students identifying as students of color and 36% participating in our Moderated Tuition program, we cultivate a diverse, inclusive community. Our 22 athletic teams across 14 sports and robust arts programs reflect our dedication to holistic development.Faculty members like Dr. Sarah Older Aguilar and David Pham emphasize collaborative learning and student voice, creating dynamic educational experiences. The school's approach extends beyond academics through Life Planning initiatives and community-building events like the annual Soulful Celebration. Recent leadership changes, including the appointment of Erik Carlson as Head of School, continue our tradition of progressive education. Our campus serves students from 60 zip codes, blending rigorous academics with character development to prepare graduates for lifelong success.
Services
Academics
Athletics
Student Life
Life Planning
Arts Programs
Highlights and features
- We maintain a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized attention
- Our 18 AP/Honors courses prepare students for college-level rigor
- 49% of students identify as students of color, ensuring diverse perspectives
- 20:1 student-to-college-counselor ratio provides individualized guidance
- 22 athletic teams across 14 sports promote teamwork and physical wellness
What people say
Personalized attention
Diverse perspectives
Engaging learning environment
Strong college preparation
Inclusive community
Services
Academics
Our college preparatory curriculum features 18 AP/Honors courses and a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Faculty emphasize critical thinking and writing development through personalized instruction. Students benefit from tailored college counseling with a 20:1 student-to-counselor ratio, ensuring individualized guidance for higher education planning.
Athletics
22 competitive teams across 14 sports promote physical wellness and teamwork. Programs emphasize skill development, sportsmanship, and community building. Student-athletes receive coaching from experienced faculty who prioritize both athletic excellence and personal growth.
Student Life
Diverse student organizations and community events foster social connection and leadership development. The school cultivates inclusivity through cultural programs and initiatives supporting 49% students of color. Life Planning curriculum prepares students for post-graduation success.
Arts Programs
Robust visual and performing arts offerings include music ensembles, theater productions, and visual arts exhibitions. Students develop creative expression through hands-on projects and public performances. The annual Winter Concert showcases student artistic achievements.
Faculty Mentorship
Experienced educators like Dr. Sarah Older Aguilar and David Pham employ student-centered teaching methods. Faculty maintain open communication with learners, providing personalized feedback and academic guidance. Professional development opportunities ensure instructional excellence across all subject areas.
People
Emily Pryor
World Languages Faculty - Spanish
Specializes in inclusive language education, incorporating diverse cultural perspectives into Spanish instruction. Creates engaging learning experiences that highlight underrepresented voices and histories.
David Polett
Math Faculty and Varsity Basketball Coach
Combines enthusiastic teaching with athletic mentorship, creating active learning environments where students develop mathematical skills and teamwork abilities through practical applications and sports training.
Sarah Older Aguilar
Humanities Department Chair
Guides students through writing development with personalized instruction, helping them discover their unique voices and identities as writers through collaborative, one-on-one learning experiences.
David Pham
Humanities Faculty
Empowers students to shape classroom discussions in history and government courses, fostering critical thinking through flexible, student-driven teaching approaches that prioritize active participation.
Erik Carlson
Head of School
Leads institutional vision and academic strategy as the fourth head of school, bringing leadership experience to continue Vistamar School's tradition of innovative, student-centered education.
Questions
What makes Vistamar's approach unique?
Our 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio and student-driven learning create personalized educational experiences that emphasize critical thinking and real-world application.
What extracurricular opportunities exist?
22 athletic teams across 14 sports, performing arts programs, and diverse student organizations provide comprehensive opportunities for student engagement.
How does Vistamar support college preparation?
With 18 AP/Honors courses and dedicated college counselors maintaining a 20:1 student ratio, we provide comprehensive guidance for higher education.
What student diversity exists at Vistamar?
49% of students identify as students of color, creating a richly diverse learning environment that values multiple cultural perspectives.
How does the school involve families?
36% of families participate in our Moderated Tuition program, reflecting our commitment to socioeconomic diversity and community partnership.
What recent leadership changes occurred?
Erik Carlson was appointed as our fourth Head of School in March 2025, continuing our tradition of innovative educational leadership.
