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Private school in Mountain View

Palo Alto Preparatory

Palo Alto Prep School was founded in 1984, out of a recognition that parents desperately needed schools that made sense for their complex-learner kids. Before we had the clarifying terminology like neurodivergent, school-avoidant, social anxiety, and gender-non-conforming, we knew that students who think differently, learn differently, struggle with anxiety over school and social situations, and/or identify as LGTBQIA+ needed learning environments in which they feel safe and accepted for who they are. We wanted to offer students a high school experience that would be different from what they’d get in a large, impersonal high school.

Over the years, we’ve evolved to meet the needs of the students we serve. Our staff’s dedication is seen in how many have continued their education to the Master’s in Special Education level. We work as a whole-staff unit to support each student in achieving academic success. Many of our students go on to 4 year or community colleges after graduation, while others pursue careers. Most leave with the sense that PAP was a place they finally felt that they fit in, that their teachers actually cared, and that they achieved things that they can still feel proud about. 

Come visit us and see why so many parents over the years have said that PAP changed their kid’s life, and theirs, for the better.

We can’t wait to meet you. Call us today to schedule a visit (650) 493-7071

School Culture

One of our greatest strengths is the ability to help students see and experience the best in themselves. We accomplish this by developing a culture of personal accountability, including efforts by all the instructors at our preparatory school to:

  • Acknowledge and reinforce small wins which serve to establish a track record of success and ultimately result in bigger wins. Whether these wins are personal, social or academic, they contribute to self esteem and confidence.
  • Recognize individual learning style preferences and encourage the student to utilize these strengths. Over time, weaker learning areas can be addressed and developed.
  • Create non-traditional learning and development opportunities that enable students to push their limits and learn more about their character, their preferences, their talents and their strengths.
  • Establish close connections between students, faculty and parents, to work together in a team relationship.
  • Encourage teachers to act as role models and mentors, students to fully express themselves and to explore their talents. Our staff likes teenagers!
  • Palo Alto Prep also gives students the safe boundaries required for self management.

Read more about the specific practices that underpin our preparatory School Culture.

Certification & Accreditation

Our private high school has acquired certifications and accreditations from the State of California, as well as other authorities and institutions. We’re certified as a non-public prep school with an approved course list and an accredited diploma. Every day students graduate from Palo Alto Prep School and begin their college education. We’ll continue to update our Certifications & Accreditations as we add to the list.

If you have any questions about preparatory school or Palo Alto Prep, please give us a call. We look forward to helping your child get onto the right path.

Call:  (650) 493-7071
Changing Lives, Redefining Education

“PAP has small classes, and their dedicated teachers are able to go from firming up the basics, to advanced topics. Smiles and enthusiasm permeate the school. They have a rock band, do all sorts of fun trips (ski, backpacking, rafting, abroad, etc), and recently moved into new facilities.

The staff has a patient and encouraging attitude accross the board, and the students are friendly and accepting of differences. Kids who might have floundered elsewhere, in this environment grow emotionally and academically. I am very happy with the process and the outcome!”

Daniel Chapiro

Parent of Palo Alto Prep Graduate