Get to know Santa Catalina

Committed to growth.

At Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School, there’s no question too small or problem too big. Our students are encouraged to explore from all angles — socially, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. We inspire curiosity, creativity, and determination in our students, and they make huge strides. They do everything from using dance to learn the planets to becoming thoughtful mentors in our Compass program. Along the way, they’re guided by dedicated and caring teachers who make sure they become their best selves.

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Character First

The Compass Program

Santa Catalina believes in educating the whole child—developing strong values and upstanding character in each of our students. Compass, our character education program, brings students together across grades to promote leadership, social connections, and service.

Learn about Compass

Aaron Ziegler

Title: Grade 7 English Teacher, Grade 8 History Teacher

From: California

Degrees: B.A., English, UCLA
A.L.M., Harvard University

Experiential Learning

Field Trips

Field trips are a fact of life at Santa Catalina, with more than 50 trips offered each year. Starting in PreK, students venture off campus to see their lessons brought to life and to engage with their community. As students get older, field trips include overnight stays, allowing for personal growth and independence.

See where we go

Lydia Mansour

Title: Director of PreK and Kindergarten

From: Born in Alexandria, Egypt, raised in Melbourne, Australia

Degrees: B.A., California State University, Fullerton

Space to Grow

Our Campus

Our 36-acre Monterey campus lets students explore every interest. Roomy, adaptable classrooms, creativity spaces, a competition-size pool, and a performing arts center mean there’s plenty of room for students to discover what excites them.

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Ibi Janko Murphy '83

Titles: Grades K-4 Religion Teacher, Compass Coordinator

From: Monterey

Degree: B.A., Yale University

Santa Catalina creates the finest academic experience on the Monterey Peninsula. And they foster a wonderful community—one that helps shape the social development of their students.
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Meet Our Teachers

Our teachers are always finding new ways to teach fundamental material while
keeping students enthusiastically engaged. These are truly remarkable leaders for learning.

Service Minded

As early as PreK, students see themselves as effective change makers. Through participation in service projects, they strive to make an impact on communities near and far.

Transportation

Get a lift to school! Learn more about our routes from the Salinas and Santa Cruz areas.

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