The Howard School (Top Ranked Private School for 2026-27)

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About the School

The Howard School in Carpinteria, CA serves 112 students from preschool through 8th grade in a nonsectarian, suburban community.
Founded in 1912, the California K–8 private school has a student–teacher ratio of 10:1 and an average class size of 10.
The school employs 11 teachers and enrolls a student body with 10.6% students of color.
The Howard School operates on a rolling admissions schedule and maintains a formal dress code.
As a member of the California Association of Independent Schools, the school contributes to the local landscape of independent education in Carpinteria.

Quick Facts (2026-27)

Top Ranked CA School
Grades: Prekindergarten-8
Enrollment: 112 students
Average class size: 10 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: ✓Verified school update

School Rankings

The Howard School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:

School Facts

Religious Affiliation

Nonsectarian

Grades Offered

Grades Prekindergarten-8

Students By Grade

View Data

Distribution of Students By Grade
Grade	The Howard School
Nursery	6
Pre-K	13
Kind	11
1	13
2	11
3	12
4	13
5	5
6	12
7	11
8	5

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Year Founded

1912

Student Body

Total Students

112 students

Student Body Type

Co-ed

% Students of Color

11%

State avg.: 52%

Academic Profile

Total Classroom Teachers

11 teachers

Student-Teacher Ratio

10:1

National avg.: 11:1

Average Class Size

10 students

Classroom Dress Code

Formal

e.g. Polos and Khaki

School Membership(s)School Assoc.

California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS-CA)
Carden Educational Foundation

Tuition & Financial Aid

Admission Deadline

None / Rolling

School Notes

Established in 1934 by Mae Carden, the Carden Method® encompasses the developmental progression of every child. The comprehensive curriculum gives children the tools necessary to gain mastery of math, science, reading and writing. Reading s...kills are taught through a sequential presentation of phonics, rhythm, and visual imagery. Specialty programs including art, music, theatre, foreign language, computer and physical education are central to a Carden education. Our goal is to promote growth of the whole child including emotional and physical development coupled with the pursuit of academic excellence. Small class sizes allow teachers to work closely with each child to develop strengths and target areas of weakness. Located in the semi-rural Carpinteria Valley, our campus offers a picturesque educational environment to families from the towns of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, Carpinteria, Ventura and Oxnard. Instruction is complemented by superb facilities: playing fields and an indoor gymnasium provide daily opportunities for physical activity; the theatre accommodates drama, music and special programs; and a state-of-the-art computer lab fosters computer literacy. Education at The Howard Carden School extends beyond the classroom. Students are taught leadership and responsibility in the community through participation in activities such as the Teddy Bear Foundation's, Adopt a Child for Christmas program or hosting senior citizens at school performances. They also participate in educational programs that promote relationships with local businesses and non-profit organizations including Carpinteria’s Girls Inc., with which we have partnered since 1999.

Source: Verified school update

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Howard School's ranking?

The Howard School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Oldest founding date.

When is the application deadline for The Howard School?

The application deadline for The Howard School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

5.00 out of 5 (2 reviews)

5 2/14/2022

The Howard School has been an amazing experience for my children. My kids have gone through The Howard School from preschool-8th grade. Not only does the school provide the feeling of having a second family but they have both discovered a love of learning. The tools they are taking with them to high school and beyond are invaluable.

- Posted by Parent - Zimm

5 5/17/2016

The Howard School is unique in the emphasis it puts on teaching students how to "learn" and to also perform life's important non-academic skills with exceptional results. The teachers and administrators are excellent educators who display a passion for teaching and a deep caring for & pride in their students.

- Posted by Parent - ruddg

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Santa Barbara County, CA is $27,538 for elementary schools and $43,101 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).

The average acceptance rate in Santa Barbara County, CA is 61% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).