Marlborough School

Nestled among the elegant homes of Hancock Park, Marlborough School stands as a testament to the enduring power of education. Marlborough School isn’t just a school. It’s a legacy. Founded in 1889 by Mary Caswell, it holds the distinction of being the oldest independent girls’ school in Southern California. Imagine young women walking these halls for over a century, each one adding to the rich tapestry of Marlborough’s history. The school started as St. Margaret’s School for Girls in Pasadena. Just a year later, it relocated to Los Angeles, finding its home in the former Marlborough Hotel in the West Adams district. The name stuck, and Marlborough School for Girls was born. Marlborough School’s campus has grown significantly over the years. Today, it occupies four acres in Hancock Park, a testament to its growth and enduring presence in Los Angeles. The school boasts Munger Hall, a state-of-the-art facility housing the Academic Resource Center, a visual arts center, and the impressive Seaver Art Gallery. Marlborough School prides itself on its small class sizes, averaging just 13 students. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 9:1, personalized attention is a hallmark of the Marlborough experience. The school’s mission is clear: to empower young women through a superior college preparatory education. Marlborough School emphasizes high ethical values, believing that academic excellence, leadership, and confidence thrive in an environment dedicated solely to girls’ education. Marlborough’s commitment to academics is evident in its impressive college acceptance rates. Over 90% of its graduates are accepted into University of California schools, with over 20% gaining admission to Ivy League universities. The Class of 2006 boasted impressive achievements, including National Merit Scholarship winners and finalists. The school also offers a unique Honors Research program. This program allows students to conduct hands-on research with mentors at prestigious institutions like Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, USC, Caltech, and UCLA. Beyond academics, Marlborough School is known for its athletics. Over 60% of the students participate in sports, competing in everything from basketball and cross country to water polo and volleyball. The school’s athletic prowess is undeniable, with numerous league titles, CIF-SS titles, and even state championships under its belt. A stroll through campus reveals the Combs Gymnasium, a fitness center, the Caldwell Swimming Pool, and Booth Field. Marlborough’s vibrant arts program allows students to explore their creativity. The annual “Evening of Dance” showcases both professional and student choreography. Student artwork graces the Disney Gallery, while music fills the air during lunchtime concerts and school assemblies. The school even has its own student newspaper, “The UltraViolet,” which helps chronicle Marlborough’s story. And yes, Marlborough girls are known as the Mustangs. But they also have another nickname. They are called the Violets, a nod to the school’s original mascot. The colors purple and white symbolize the school’s spirit and pride. Marlborough School is more than bricks and mortar. It is a place where girls become young women, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make their mark on the world.