Marin Academy

Marin Academy is a school of mostly multi-talented kids--academically, athletically, artistically, and musically. Most of the teachers are nurturing and know their stuff. The teachers have a lot of power, so no real recourse for a "dud" teacher, like the teacher who couldn't teach my kid's Honors math class and couldn't answer student questions and drafted overly-long tests that no one could finish. In fact, math seemed kind of weak at MA, in general. I don't know much about the relatively new head of school or what her strengths or weaknesses are. Yes to significant drug/alcohol use. Nice physical plant, and my kids have mostly loved their school. Very little ethnic and economic diversity.
--Submitted by a parent

It has been the perfect school for my son, who is a soccer player and a jazz musician. Our challenge was finding a school with challenging, college preparatory academics, which allowed him room to pursue these other activities at a high level. We found it in MA, as well as a welcoming, warm and supportive atmosphere. All of the students are very nice children who seem to get along with one another, a very unusual situation for a high school.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter was the target of 'mean girls' here as a freshman and the administration did nothing about it, other than to suggest 'counseling' (my daughter had never had a problem socially before going to this school). I heartily agree with the last commenter - it is a school of alphas.
--Submitted by a parent

The school has a bias towards extroverted kids. The thoughtful, studious, quiet students either never make it through admissions (probably because they don't have the 'gift of gab') and if they do, they are not seen as 'leaders'. There is a such a big emphasis on leadership and participating in a vast array of activities. The less noticeable strengths that many introverts have don't feel to be valued. Many of the so called leaders at MA are actually very social partiers. We worry that our introverted child has been made to feel inadequate and like there is something wrong with her by being lost in a sea of extroverts. For a school that values diversity, I hope the tide turns. On the plus side, the school has outstanding teachers and curriculum and if you do have a child who is interested in loads activities, they have many wonderful programs to offer.
--Submitted by a parent

As a current student, I would disagree with the last two comments. I am not a jock, but I am well-known on campus, and have my non-athletic achievements recognized. Yes, if you are only good at academics, you may start to feel inadequate, but that's because everyone is good at academics AND something else. It's an incredible feeling to finally not be the smartest one in the class like I was in middle school - it pushes me to my limits to keep up with others, and because I have done so I have grown an immense amount in my four years here. I feel as though the thinking, questioning, and creating happens so much that it seems as though it isn't. In every class I have smart and engaged teachers giving me assignments that need creativity and application of knowledge instead of just favoring rote work and regurgitation.
--Submitted by a student

I agree that this is not a school that necessarily honors the kids that aren't jocks. Their standards have slipped, as kids that are less capable are admitted due to well connected, wealthy parents, and their athletic abilities. The kids are very entitled and realistically, the schools 'mission' is really not effectively integrated into the school or the community. It's been a disappointing experience to recognize the shallowness of the community.
--Submitted by a parent

I have a child there currently. The negatives: 1) if your child is a very, very good student (as mine is), without a special talent (i.e. athletics, music, art, etc.), he/she may start to feel inadequate. MA favors (and admits) students who are excellent at an extracurricular pursuit (also, those whose parents are rich and connected); 2) The students act a bit entitled - and it's just as cliquish as a public high school; 3) It's very, very expensive. Positives: 1) Good, kind teachers, for the most part. 2) Small classes with engaged students
--Submitted by a parent

Marin Academy is a great school, I've learned so much in such a short time. Not only are the academics exquisite, but the sports are phenomenal, and the music and arts are fantastic as well. The community is so welcoming, I felt accepted right away. the teachers are so kind and understanding, they are willing todo anything to help you succeed
--Submitted by a student

This school prepared my high schooler with fantastic study and organizational skills. She found the learning envionment supportive yet challenging. Taking educational risk and trying new activities were encouraged. Great school!
--Submitted by a parent

Marin Academy is a challenging prep school of the highest order. The teacher / student ratio is excellent. You will love this school if you student is a high achiever and loves to learn. The teachers are well paid and it shows in their dedication to their job.
--Submitted by a parent