Why Maybeck?
Students learn from and with teachers who are actively engaged in their own journey of life-long learning. From creating new electives, to developing immersive special programs around the globe, to deepening and refining the curriculum and pedagogy of core-courses, Maybeck teachers are learners first. They model the intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and care for community that we expect of every Maybeck student.
At Maybeck, you can be yourself. We celebrate the tremendous diversity of our students and staff. We value kindness, respect, and compassion. Maybeck recognizes that creating a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and appreciated requires the active attention of all members. Affinity programs, Maybeck Beyond excursions, family hosted “Pineapple Jams,” and cultural celebrations are just a few of the ways that Maybeck brings our community together.
Students and staff think deeply about what it means to be active citizens of our world, our region, and our immediate community. Situated a few blocks from Cal Berkeley, Maybeck High School engages the rich culture, diversity, history, and environments of the City of Berkeley. Guest speakers allow students to gain different perspectives on global issues. Bay Area field trips allow students to explore the beauty of our region alongside the complexities of our history and contemporary moment.
Environmental stewardship, sustainability and social justice are foundational values of the school. In the 1970s Maybeck students considered what it would look like to live in balance with the environment. Today, that ethos informs our work in large and small ways. In classes, special programs, camping trips and community service projects, Maybeck students design solutions to large scale environmental and social problems.
Students have tremendous choice in navigating their path through Maybeck, choosing electives and programs that allow them to pursue their interests and challenge themselves with academic rigor. And because Maybeck's approach is experiential, students are constantly making connections to the real world. Maybeck's unique approach allows students to really understand the value of what they are learning—it is why so many of our alums stay engaged with this school, and it is why I am here. I hope you will join us!
I look forward to meeting you!
Elizabeth Pillsbury, PhD
School Director
“. . . learning about the world and ourselves is a good way to live.”
—Stanley Cardinet, Founder of Maybeck High School