Polytechnic School

At Polytechnic School, our name conveys both a sense of our history and of our philosophical base. Polytechnic literally means “many arts,” and since 1907, Poly has been a place where students become multi-talented, intellectually ambitious citizens of the world. On any given day, our community overflows with activities and ideas that challenge and inspire us — adults and students alike.

As a K-12 school, we are able to create a coordinated sequence of learning across all grades and developmental stages. Our Lower, Middle, and Upper School programs provide continuity for students and allow Poly teachers to invest deeply in each child's progress over the long term. One of the great joys of working for Poly is to watch children and families from all walks of life grow up here together, in a community that is full of friendship, creativity, and intellectual ambition.

While Poly is nationally recognized for the strength of its programs, the lessons we hope our students take with them transcend those measured by test scores and matriculation lists. A Poly education goes far beyond getting into college — it inspires a lifelong thirst for knowledge, an appreciation of individuality, and a true desire to be of service in the larger world. Our graduates leave Poly ready to fulfill the promise of their own talents and to lead meaningful, purposeful lives.

The mission of Polytechnic School is to develop the intellect, talents, and character of each student in a community of learning dedicated to principles of academic excellence that values the uniqueness and dignity of each member and fosters personal responsibility and service to others.

Polytechnic School, a college-preparatory school established in 1907, is dedicated to the education of students from kindergarten through 12th grade. It is a school founded on the principles of academic excellence, personal and communal responsibility, and service to others. As a community of learning, Poly expects all members to be engaged actively in the quest for knowledge and understanding. The school seeks students who are inquisitive and motivated to learn, faculty who are passionate about their fields of study, and staff who are devoted to supporting the educational mission of the school.

A central focus of Poly is to offer a strong and rigorous academic program that is responsive to the developmental and learning needs of our students. Small classes, which encourage deep student-faculty interaction, facilities that enhance the ability of the faculty to teach, and opportunities for faculty development, are essential ingredients in the academic enterprise.

Integral to the education experience at Poly are activities beyond the classroom including athletics, outdoor education, community outreach, and the visual and performing arts. Through these programs, students explore and develop additional skills and interests that stretch them both physically and mentally. Teachers, coaches, and administrators who understand the vital link between these activities and classroom learning, promote collaboration, leadership and respect for the world beyond the school.

The foundation on which the educational mission of the school rests is the commitment to respect every member of the community. Poly values both the character of each individual and the larger sense of community in which the individual may grow and flourish. The Poly community appreciates the cultural, ethnic and economic diversity present in the Pasadena area and strives to reflect it. The school provides a welcoming environment to all students and their families. Members of the Poly community appreciate and learn from individual differences, foster the ability to disagree with civility, and embody courtesy and compassion.

A Poly education encourages students to become intellectual leaders, who are prepared to become contributing and responsible citizens in their communities. The school expects to develop in its students a joy for learning, an appreciation for the value of friendship, a life-long relationship with the school and the commitment to be of service to others. The goal of Poly is to have graduates prepared to meet the complexities of a changing world with confidence and good character.