Viewpoint School

I love Viewpoint, I have gone there since Kindergarten. The academics can be difficult but the teachers are very helpful, especially if you're having trouble. It is expensive but I think it is worth it. I love Viewpoint!

An amazing and diverse community of exceptional and exceptionally nice people. From the dynamism and active stewardship from the board of trustees - to the incredibly talented and devoted faculty of teachers - to the active parent strong army of volunteers - to the kindness and support of the staff on campus - to the amazingly talented, hardworking and spirited students - all lead by an engaged headmaster who has a strong, well communicated vision for the school. It truly is one of LA's, indeed Californias, preeminent independent schools.
--Submitted by a parent

Our daughter started attending Viewpoint in the 9th grade. With the small class size, nurturing environment, and exceptional teachers, she went on to attend UCLA, graduating with honors, and then Northwestern Law, again, graduating with honors.
--Submitted by a parent

We have two sons in the elementary school and could not be happier with the administration, staff and overall experience. Nowhere in Los Angeles will you find a more nurturing college prep school that is not only well-rounded and challenging but also values balance in education...the best academic and social and artistic bet for your child's education.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has been at Viewpoint since the 3th grade and is now in the Middle School. Our child is so happy at Viewpoint. The head of the middle school Mr. Armbrister is incredible with the children and is so committed to their wellbeing. Viewpoint seems to understand the balance of inspiring, challenging and nurturing children. It is very academically challenging and the homework at times can be a bit much, but they have a policy that if your child is still doing homework at 9:00-9:30 at night, you write a note at the top of the page and there is no penalty for what you haven t finished. The families at Viewpoint are very committed to their children and are friendlier then some might expect. The athletes are outstanding.
--Submitted by a parent

Our son just graduated from middle school at Viewpoint. This wonderful school has exceeded our expectations. Class size is small. While a few classes had the maximum of 22 students, many classes had 9 - 16. The interesting and innovative teachers are able to get to know the students on a personal level. On more than one occasion, my son surprised himself by liking a subject which he had previously thought dull, simply due to the enthusiasm and creativity of the teachers. Classes are taught at an exceedingly high level. I agree with comments about Viewpoint being for more academically motivated and gifted students. I noticed at least one comment about bullies. My son commented on a number of occasions how NICE the students are, and how he has not witnessed any bullying in the middle school. He is thriving there, and we have positive expectations for high school.
--Submitted by a parent

My 9th grade public school children were grateful to hear that Viewpoint was offering a free community lecture on planning high school careers with a goal of getting into a top-rated-universities. Through the generous time of Viewpoint's Senior Guidance Counselor, as well as the Senior Admissions officer, my students learned for the first time about "The Magic 20." It changed the way they set up their following year's course schedule, putting them on the right track. While they were already involved in community service, they also learned what a difference this can make to University Admission Officers. They were even more impressed that a 9th grade friend of ours, who attends Viewpoint, just scored a 30 on his ACT...and a friend of his, also at Viewpoint, scored a perfect 800 on his SAT Biology Subject Test.

Two children with a combined 14 year history from primary til HS. Many happy memories, but as with any school, not without flaws. My advice is to know the teacher reputation, know that parents gossip, LS administrative staff gossips the worst, know they care, but only so much, know the kind words at assemblies becomes fake, but is fun and know this may not be the best fit for your child. Positive administrative changes in MS & HS for 2009. There are cliques, but more challenging to navigate for girls than boys, academically tough, but teachers available. Missing their own field for night football games due to ordinances. Children not well rounded and there are other options. We've left and are very happy. Yet, still able to reflect on positive impact Viewpoint has provided.
--Submitted by a parent

Viewpoint is a good, but not great school. It prides itself on being a challenging college prep school but academically does not compare with Harvard Westlake, Oakwood or Brentwood. The educators are hit and miss; some are excellent, others not so good. Unfortunately, the school is in the midst of a major capital campaign and is more intent on improving its' facilities than its' faculty. Potential is great for the future if the administration re- prioritizes and focuses more on the students and less on maintaining the status quo.
--Submitted by a parent

Clique ridden, social pressure cooker of a school. You will be expected to show them the money!
--Submitted by a parent