Private Schools in Santa Ynez, California

Laguna Blanca School is a highly regarded independent school in Santa Barbara that serves students from throughout the Central Coast, including the Santa Ynez Valley. With a 91-year history of academic excellence, Laguna Blanca offers a comprehensive college preparatory program from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school features exceptional facilities including modern science labs, technology centers, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. Laguna Blanca's curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and global citizenship, with strong programs in STEM, humanities, and the arts. The school maintains small class sizes and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities, consistently achieving outstanding college placement results for graduates.

Midland School is a highly respected co-educational boarding and day school located just minutes from Santa Ynez in Los Olivos. Founded in 1932, Midland offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a unique emphasis on environmental education and outdoor experiences. The school's 2,860-acre campus provides exceptional facilities for hands-on learning, including sustainable farming, wilderness programs, and environmental science. With small class sizes and a strong community focus, Midland emphasizes character development, self-reliance, and academic excellence. The school consistently sends graduates to top colleges and universities while maintaining a commitment to simple living and environmental stewardship.

Dunn School is a premier independent college preparatory school serving the Santa Ynez Valley with both day and boarding programs. Located in Los Olivos, just 10 minutes from Santa Ynez, Dunn offers a comprehensive academic program with particular strengths in STEM education, visual and performing arts, and athletics. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, art studios, and athletic complexes on its 55-acre campus. Dunn's personalized learning approach includes one-on-one mentoring and small class sizes, ensuring individual attention for each student. The school maintains a strong track record of college placements and emphasizes character education alongside academic achievement.