The Barber School

The Barber School, an esteemed independent institution founded in 1893, embodies its guiding motto: "K through Life." With a substantial endowment of $0.3 billion, the school stands as a testament to enduring educational excellence, fostering growth and development across all stages of a student's academic journey.

Its rich history begins in 1891, when the Palo Alto Preparatory School for Boys was established, notably influenced by Stanford University's founding president, David Starr Jordan. This pioneering institution was soon renamed Manzanita Hall in 1892, establishing itself as a prominent boys' day and boarding school by 1893. Growing steadily, Manzanita Hall served 24 students by 1894 and expanded to 60 boys by 1915, before evolving into the Palo Alto Military Academy in 1919, which operated until 1972.

The Barber School continues this legacy through its modern academic structure, designed for comprehensive student engagement. The Lower School, situated on the vibrant Bucknall campus (acquired in 1997), offers a stimulating environment with enriching activities like an after-school orchestra and various sports. Students then transition to the Middle School, located on the Union campus, where they embark on a curriculum that prepares them seamlessly for the Upper School, which opened its doors in 1998. This integrated approach ensures a continuous, supportive, and challenging educational pathway.

From its historical foundations as a preparatory school for boys to its current multi-campus structure, The Barber School remains dedicated to nurturing young minds. It blends a deep-rooted commitment to academic rigor with a vibrant student experience, preparing students not just for higher education but for successful and meaningful lives, truly living up to its motto of "K through Life."