Established in 1961 Viewpoint School initially occupied leased facilities in Encino. Only 24 students enrolled that first year. Thelma Sitton served as the school’s pioneering principal. Viewpoint’s growth was rapid. The school expanded its campus westward. For a period Viewpoint shared space with a church on Platt Avenue in Woodland Hills. By 1965-66 Viewpoint had moved grades 6 7 and 8 to its current location in Calabasas. Three trailers served as the first buildings. A permanent lower school building soon followed.
Viewpoint’s enrollment surged throughout the 1960s and 70s. The school added grades to keep up with demand. Viewpoint graduated its first senior class in 1982. Construction began on a second academic building that same year. Art O’Leary led as headmaster from 1980 to 1986. Dr Robert J Dworkoski succeeded him in 1986. After 28 years as Headmaster Dr Dworkoski transitioned to President of the Viewpoint Educational Foundation in June 2014. Paul Rosenbaum served as interim headmaster during the 2014-15 school year. Mark McKee assumed the role of Head of School in June 2015.
Viewpoint’s expansion continued. A third building opened in 2005. This marked the first phase of the school’s Master Plan. A new athletic field was completed in 2007. A new library opened its doors in 2009. A large arts and athletics facility was completed in the fall of 2011. This impressive 75000-square-foot building houses classrooms science labs and art studios. The Paul Family Athletic Center boasts a 900-seat gymnasium. It also includes a fitness center locker rooms and coaches’ offices. In February 2015 Viewpoint opened the Balaban-Webster Team Center a 4100-square-foot facility.
Viewpoint’s commitment to academics is impressive. As of 1988 the school offered French from Pre-K through 12th grade. Secondary students in grades 7-12 were required to take at least three years of foreign language instruction. Students could choose from French Spanish Latin or Mandarin. Foreign language classes met four days a week for grades 9-12 and five days a week for grades 7 and 8.
Viewpoint has faced some controversy. The school faced accusations of protecting a teacher convicted of sexually abusing a student at a previous school. Viewpoint’s vape control policies have also drawn media attention.
Viewpoint’s athletic program is extensive. The school fields 22 varsity athletic teams. These teams compete in the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section. Junior varsity and middle school teams also compete. The Patriots have a strong record. They’ve won 18 CIF Southern Section Championships in eight years. Since 2008 Viewpoint’s Upper School athletic teams have won numerous league and section titles. The school’s commitment to academics shines through its athletics. Seven of Viewpoint’s teams have received CIF All-Academic recognition in recent years. Viewpoint’s competitive athletics begin in 4th grade. Students choose from a selection of sports each season. Before 4th grade students have daily P.E. classes.
Viewpoint School’s history is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and athletic achievement. From its humble beginnings to its current standing as a prominent independent school Viewpoint continues to shape the lives of its students.