Maybeck History
In 1972 in the midst of local and national political turmoil, Stanley (Stan) Cardinet and three other teachers, Paul August, Jim Kelly, and Jack Radisch, came together to start a school that would, in Stan’s words, offer “an intellectually honest education” at a low cost to families. In the first year, they established a tradition of learning in nature on extended camping trips, both because they believed deeply in the transformative power of the natural world and because inexpensive space was difficult to find.
They named the school after Berkeley architect Bernard Maybeck, whose work represented imagination and excellence and provided a model for the school's vision of education. Maybeck's concern for the environment and his appreciation for disciplined technique inspired his use of local natural materials and superb craftsmanship within the existing landscape. For Stan, who created a school that was rooted in notions of environmental sustainability, academic excellence, and resourcefulness, it seemed fitting to honor the legendary architect in the school’s name.
More than fifty years after its founding, Maybeck is no longer the scrappy school meeting in empty classrooms at Berkeley. Yet, in many ways, the spirit of those early days continues. Maybeck remains a teacher-led school, challenging kids to be curious, to interrogate the status quo, and to discover strengths they never knew they possessed. Our commitment to serving students of diverse perspectives and socioeconomic backgrounds remains, with more than 42% of Maybeck Students receiving tuition assistance.
Since its founding, Maybeck has allowed students to be themselves and to discover their passions within a community of respect and care. Maybeck remains committed to the principles known as “The Five Rules” that guided the school in the early years:
No drugs or alcohol
No physical or psychological violence
Regular attendance
Doing the work and studying, taking an active part in the classroom and school community
No cheating
From bike trips in the Sierras, to two-week-long immersive Special Programs, to community service projects, and much more, Maybeck’s experiential approach to education has allowed generations of students to acquire the tools to engage actively and creatively in the wider world. From tech innovators, to bakers, to social activists, to educators and CEOs, Maybeck’s Alums are transforming the Bay Area and beyond.
Stan Cardinet
(1938–2024)
On the morning of August 14th, 2024, Maybeck’s Founder, Stan Cardinet, passed away. Please click here to read a moving remembrance by Maybeck alum and former board president, Dale Rose.
Please share your memories of Stan here, and consider donating to the Stanley Cardinet Memorial Fund to honor Stan's life and legacy at Maybeck.