MERP is where learning gets deep. This is hands-on, feet-wet, neuron-firing inquiry that happens in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
Academics
Learn it, do it, discover it.
At Catalina, true learning is rooted in self-discovery. Our academic standards are high, and the level of support and care we give to each and every student is even higher. We’ll challenge you to ask deeper questions. Take braver chances. Make bolder mistakes. And then try again.
Meet our Teachers
Amy Azevedo Mulgrew '02
From: Livermore, CA
Degrees: B.A., applied mathematics, UC Berkeley
M.S., applied mathematics, CSU Long Beach
Mrs. Mulgrew's ties to Catalina began when she was a boarding student. “I am still inspired by the teachers I had here. They showed me that I could do anything, and that support carried me through much of the rest of my education.” After graduating in 2002, she attended UC Berkeley and California State University Long Beach, where she also taught math. She enjoys crafts, swimming, and playing with her three young children.
Claire Lerner
From: New York City
Degrees: B.F.A. and M.F.A., State University of New York
Ms. Lerner is an award-winning photographer and painter who has taught at Catalina for more than 20 years. Prior to coming here, she was a member of the photography faculty at Monterey Peninsula College. Her work has been exhibited both locally and internationally and has been collected by a broad range of private and public institutions.
Blake Riley
From: St. Louis, Missouri
Degrees: B.A., political science and religious studies, Saint Louis University
Mr. Riley began teaching at Santa Catalina in 2006. He and his wife live on campus with their two daughters. Mr. Riley loves the collaborative nature of the Religious Studies department, where teachers work together on service projects, spiritual retreats, and weekly chapel services. “We want students to feel comfortable and confident to reflect on faith, and we want them to be open to the spiritual and God,” he says.
Where Learning Comes to Life
Our Advanced Topics courses, certified by the University of California, allow for intensive, college-level study around specialized subjects. You'll delve into everything from Mandarin Chinese to multivariable calculus.
The Journey program helps Catalina students craft a long-term academic vision for themselves and be prepared for college and beyond.
I love that my entire class takes part in discussing books. I learn so much from the way our teachers guide the conversations. They encourage us to be bold in our opinions.
—Lucy, Day Student