History

Rolling Hills Preparatory School

Rolling Hills Prep School was established as an independent not-for-profit school in 1981. The founders wished to create "an academic powerhouse with a soul," believing firmly that, given talented, committed teachers, passionate about their disciplines and supportive of the whole child, a school can prepare young people for success and happiness in college and beyond without burning them out in the process.

Founded initially as the high school division of Rolling Hills Country Day School, the school began teaching in classrooms at Rolling Hills Covenant Church. Receiving accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and graduating its first class of just seven students in 1985, the school's reputation grew quickly. With this growth emerged a demand to offer programs for younger students. In 1992, RHP added middle school grades and moved to larger facilities on the Malaga Cove School campus, remaining there for fourteen years and adding programs in academics, the arts, athletics and outdoor education as the enrollment grew to well over 200 students.

In 1994, as part of its continuing commitment to program improvements, the school adopted the Four Pillars as guiding principles: Disciplined Minds, Sound Character, Healthy Bodies, and Creative Spirits. The innovative Outdoor Education program grew during the 1990's and was implemented in its current form, taking students from every grade level to a week-long outdoor adventure during the past decade. The school has continually sought to add new and creative programs, such as robot design, American Sign Language, horticulture and gardening, and computer science.