Academics at Pacifica Christian High School

Preparing students to excel at top institutions

We understand the time and effort it takes to find the right school for your family. High school can be more than just four years that pass by. You’re looking for an environment that aligns with the values you practice at home. Along with a positive community, you’re also searching for a place where students are set on the path to success through excellent academics, a comprehensive college-prep program, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Here at Pacifica, we provide all these things. As a private Christian high school in Santa Monica that prepares students to excel in top colleges and universities, we believe that the years in high school should be spent building the strong foundations teens need… for a bright future ahead.

Elite College Prep

A journey toward the best colleges and universities

A Pacifica education goes beyond teaching students what to learn. We also equip students how to learn. Teens discover a four-year journey through the humanities, sciences, and the arts while focusing on the Great Conversation of the Western tradition within a biblical worldview. High schoolers at Pacifica learn how to:

• Ask thoughtful questions. Central to our teaching philosophy is challenging student’s minds through inquiry and rhetoric. We develop analytical, problem-solving, entrepreneurial, and technological skills, preparing high schoolers for a vital role in the 21st-century economy
• Integrate faith and learning. At Pacifica, students explore the world in a biblical context, focusing on what is true, good, and beautiful. Christ-centered values are woven into every subject, fostering spiritual growth.
• Practice intellectual charity. We invite students to listen first — and grow in their ability to understand and respond. This approach encourages teens to practice curiosity, critical thinking, and effective communication.

The result? Students who are more than prepared to succeed in the country’s top educational institutions. Learn more about our college counseling process.

“I came to Pacifica in the second semester of my freshman year, and today I am infinitely glad that I did; this school has been nothing but amazing. I deeply respect Pacifica’s teaching philosophy and became an ambassador and admissions prefect to help prospective students see what I had missed.” 

– Roman Lenz, Pacifica Student

Engaging Learning Environment

A place to be challenged and supported

Here at Pacifica, we prioritize an atmosphere where teachers serve as mentors and a learning paradigm where students enjoy intellectual growth.

Engaging Learning Environment

Here at Pacifica, we prioritize an atmosphere where teachers serve as mentors and a learning paradigm where students enjoy intellectual growth.

Leisure in Learning

Pacifica students learn best in an academic atmosphere of scola (leisure) rather than negotium (business). The “leisure in learning” model provides time and space for students to think deeply, practice intellectual ownership, and express their ideas articulately.

Excellent Academic Options

A diverse range of courses for students with varied interests

We understand that every student has particular core subjects that interest them and they want to excel in. Our private Christian school features deep tracks in history, English, science, and engineering, with a total of 24 Advanced Placement (AP) and honors-level courses.

A diverse range of courses for students with varied interests

Exemplary Signature Programs

A personalized track that matches one’s passions

At Pacifica, we encourage teens to take ownership of their learning and to forge their own path to growth and self-discovery. Students can go beyond the core liberal arts requirements and enrich their interests in four areas of in-depth study: PACARTS, STEM, business, and Philosophy & Theology.

“I think one of my favorite wins in teaching Philosophy & Theology is when students begin to learn the difference between fact accumulation and insight. When insight begins, it’s when students take on a path of lifelong learning.” 

– Dan Freeborn, Philosophy & Theology Teacher

“In Latin class, we would have deep conversations about integrity and justice, and talk about how this looks like in our daily life.” 

– Linnea Scobey, Latin Teacher