We help teens feel good about school and unlock their potential. Young people who struggle in mainstream school settings say Holden is the school they actually want to attend. Incredible transformations happen here. For over 55 years, Holden has been a safe haven for non-traditional learners.
Holden provides an innovative, alternative, vibrant, non traditional approach to education.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 28 students
- Yearly Tuition: $46,904
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Average class size: 5 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
We have a credentialed Education Specialists on staff: Dyslexia, Language based learning differences, Mild to Moderate learning differences, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, Nonverbal learning disability
Year Founded
1969
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Aug 24, 2026
Last Day of School
Fri. May 21, 2027
Student Body
Total Students
28 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
29%
State avg.: 52%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
2:1
National avg.: 11:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
5 students
Number of AP/Advanced Courses
6 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$46,904
Tuition Notes
Generous financial aid available. See holdenhigh.org for more information.
% on Financial Aid
70%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$18,000
Acceptance Rate
85%
National avg.: 82%
College Acceptance Rate
95%
Admissions Director
Kristin Lamoureux
Admissions Associate
Jennifer Polse Payne
Application URL
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Community ServiceGrade Level Interest Projects
GSAStudent Council
Arts and Music Programs:
Independent Art and Music Credit
School Notes
- School Mascot: Hawks
- Holden High School is deeply rooted in the alternative education movement. Holden provides a student-centered educational experience that embraces diversity.
- Holden empowers a broad range of learners in a collaborative and creative environment. Many of our students have mild to moderate learning differences, have struggled in mainstream school settings, or have experienced trauma.
- Holden is a great fit for students who:
- -Desire a safe environment because they have been bullied or have not found acceptance.
- - Want to pursue learning both in and out of school.
- - Yearn for a tailor-made learning environment.
- Holden is fully accredited by the Schools Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Many of our students attend colleges across the country.
- Enrollment is open throughout the school year. Please call 925-254-0199 or visit us online to arrange a visit.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Holden High School cost?
Holden High School's tuition is approximately $46,904 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Holden High School?
The acceptance rate of Holden High School is 85%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
When is the application deadline for Holden High School?
The application deadline for Holden High School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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People that viewed Holden High School also viewed these schools: The College Preparatory School, Holy Names High School, Bayhill High School, Sterne School and Archbishop Hanna High School.
The nearest high school and elementary school to Holden High School is Orinda Academy (0.3 miles away)
The nearest preschool is KSS Immersion Schools, Oakland-Montclair (3.8 miles away)
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