The Ojai Campus, the sole and historic home of The Thacher School since 1889, specializes in a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum for grades 9-12, blending traditional academics with innovative, experiential learning tailored to its expansive 427-acre hillside location in the Ojai Valley. This setting enables unique integration of outdoor education, environmental stewardship, and hands-on projects into core subjects, fostering curiosity, resilience, and mastery among students in small, discussion-based classes guided by dedicated faculty.
- English Department: Foundational grammar and literature in 9th grade progressing to advanced seminars on Shakespeare, American novelists, poetry, and creative nonfiction, emphasizing analysis, argumentation, and original voice.
- Fine Arts: Comprehensive programs in visual arts (drawing, painting, ceramics, photography), performing arts (theater productions, music ensembles, choral groups), and digital design in state-of-the-art studios and a woodshop.
- History and Social Sciences: Core U.S. and World History sequences, plus electives such as 'Af-Pak' regional studies, History of Modern China, Chicanx Studies, Advanced Economic Theory, and philosophy.
- Mathematics: Sequential courses from Algebra I to Multivariable Calculus and Statistics, with emphasis on collaborative problem-solving, proofs, and real-world applications.
- Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy (with on-campus observatory), Marine Biology, and Environmental Science, featuring labs, fieldwork on campus trails, and research projects.
- World Languages: Spanish (AP level), French, and Mandarin Chinese, incorporating cultural immersion trips and conversational proficiency.
Complementing the core curriculum are xBlock electives for student-led inquiry, the Senior Exhibition capstone, and interdisciplinary opportunities that leverage the campus's natural beauty, stables, observatory, and maker spaces for holistic education.414261
