The Joan Macy School is a specialized non-public school serving the girls in the Residential Treatment Program.
Joan Macy operates with class sizes of twelve or less, taught by fully credentialed specialized instruction teachers.
There is a teacher's aide in each classroom and the curriculum includes vocational and life skills development and specialized programs to help students overcome their learning disabilities.
There is full coordination of therapeutic and educational services between the counseling staff at David & Margaret and the teachers at the Joan Macy School.
In addition to a full regiment of core academic classes, the Joan Macy School offers residents an array of specialized courses and program options.
These include consumer life skills, computer lab, woodworking, teacher assistant training, Spanish, art and photography, sewing and quilting, work experience/ROP, teacher assistant training.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: 2-12
- Enrollment: 112 students
- Yearly Tuition: $25,000
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Joan Macy School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 2-12
Year Founded
1910
School Calendar
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
112 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
77%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$25,000
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 81%
Application URL
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Joan Macy School cost?
Joan Macy School's tuition is approximately $25,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Joan Macy School?
The acceptance rate of Joan Macy School is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 80%. Joan Macy School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
What is Joan Macy School's ranking?
Joan Macy School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Joan Macy School?
The application deadline for Joan Macy School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 2/2/2015
Hey,
I just want to say a big THANK YOU to JOAN MACY SCHOOL because you guys helped me a lot even though I struggled you guys still stood by my side. I really do appreciate that. You guys have always helped me on my work and sometimes even worked with me 1:1. Thanks....
-Ruthy Ann Harris
Endorse Joan Macy School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
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