At Athenian, we encourage thinking, learning, exploring, and experiencing in all directions. Set in the foothills of Mt. Diablo, we provide a space where students are challenged to evolve, expand, and extend their thinking to become lifelong learners and achievers. This spirit is fused into every facet of the Athenian School. It’s in the air we breathe, the books we read, the lessons we teach, and the hikes we take—together.

Knowledge comes from experience. That’s why we immerse students in learning in both middle and high school. Here, we do. Athenians dig into coursework. Get hands on, and venture out. From big lessons come big understanding and even bigger experiences. It’s a journey that sets our graduates apart from all for the rest of their lives.

It’s a promise of an expansive, ongoing journey of knowledge seeking. Education at Athenian is a 24/7, 360° full-tilt pursuit. It’s a way of life pioneered by our founder, Dyke Brown, over 60 years ago. It’s who we are. Built on the ideals of internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership, and service, we teach big lessons and create big-time learners. That’s the Athenian way.