Katherine Delmar Burke School

Established in 1908, the Katherine Delmar Burke School stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Katherine Delmar Burke. She envisioned a place where girls could receive an education that rivaled their male counterparts, preparing them for college and beyond. The Katherine Delmar Burke School, affectionately known as Burke’s, wasn’t meant to be just another finishing school. Burke aimed higher, wanting to empower young women with the knowledge and skills they needed to succeed in a world that often underestimated them. The Katherine Delmar Burke School first opened its doors in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, at the corner of Steiner and Pacific Streets. It later moved to a house on Broderick Street before finally settling into its current location in the Sea Cliff neighborhood near Lincoln Park. This journey reflects the school’s growth and evolution. In 1918, a new building was designed by the renowned architect Julia Morgan, a friend of Katherine Burke herself. This building, located on Jackson Street, housed the Katherine Delmar Burke School until 1975. That year marked the closing of Burke’s high school program, and the building was subsequently acquired by San Francisco University High School. While the high school chapter closed, Katherine Delmar Burke School’s legacy continued to flourish on its Sea Cliff campus, dedicated solely to kindergarten through eighth grade. Burke’s is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a vibrant community where girls are encouraged to explore their passions. From volleyball and soccer to cross country and basketball, Burke’s offers a wide range of athletic opportunities. Students also contribute to the school’s newspaper, the Green & Gold, and the yearbook, Works & Days. These publications provide a platform for young voices and creativity. The Katherine Delmar Burke School is deeply rooted in San Francisco’s history. From its humble beginnings to its current standing as a respected institution, Burke’s continues to empower girls. Its motto, “Educate, Encourage & Empower,” reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to fostering the next generation of female leaders. Today, Katherine Delmar Burke School stands as a testament to Katherine Delmar Burke’s vision. The school’s green and gold colors symbolize growth, prosperity, and a bright future for its students.