Mission Statement

From the Principal

At Laurel Hall, we believe that creating high expectations while providing meaningful academic and social-emotional support empowers students to grow into confident, capable, and compassionate young people. From the moment students begin their journey at Laurel Hall, we intentionally cultivate a learning environment that prepares them not only for academic success, but for life beyond our campus. Our goal is to help every child discover their strengths, embrace challenges with grit, and develop the confidence to pursue their passions and future aspirations. Grounded in the principles of the Formative Five — empathy, self-control, integrity, embracing diversity, and grit — our program develops the whole child. We believe students learn best in environments where relationships matter, curiosity is encouraged, and every learner feels seen, valued, and supported. Through collaborative conversations, think-pair-share experiences, problem solving, and responsive discussions, students learn to process information deeply, think critically, and engage thoughtfully across all subject areas.

At Laurel Hall, we intentionally balance innovation with traditional learning practices. Technology is used thoughtfully and purposefully — not as a replacement for authentic engagement, but as a tool to enhance learning when necessary. Our students still hold pencils, handwrite assignments, draft ideas on paper, use note cards, and participate in collaborative group work that strengthens communication, comprehension, and interpersonal skills. We believe limiting unnecessary screen time allows students to remain present, connected, and actively engaged in their learning community.

Our classrooms are places where students learn to celebrate differences in themselves and others while developing resilience, confidence, and self-awareness. Small class sizes, meaningful relationships with teachers, and a deeply connected school community create an environment where students are known, challenged, and supported as individuals.

At Laurel Hall, we understand that a quality education extends far beyond grades. The experiences students have each day — academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually — shape who they become as learners and as people. We are proud of the caring and dynamic community we continue to build together and remain committed to preparing students for a future filled with purpose, curiosity, integrity, and opportunity.

Warmly,

Marti McCloud

Laurel Hall School’s Portrait of a Graduate

Our values are reflected in the Graduate Learning Outcomes. By 8th grade, our students have developed strong skills to thrive in top high schools across Los Angeles. At Laurel Hall School, our students EMBRACE learning. 

E – Effective Communicators

Express ideas clearly, listen actively, and engage thoughtfully with others.

M – Masters of Skills and Concepts

Committed to academic excellence, we demonstrate strong foundational knowledge and apply skills across disciplines.

B – Builders Through a Creative Process

Use creativity to design, problem-solve, imagine, build, create, and produce meaningful work.

R – Responsible Citizens

We are committed to the Formative Five: Empathy, Self-control, Integrity, Embracing Diversity, and Grit 

A – Actively Engaged Learners

Show curiosity, motivation, and ownership of learning.

C – Critical Thinkers

Analyze, evaluate, and apply information to solve problems and make decisions.

E – Emergent People of God

Demonstrate compassion, character, and values rooted in faith.

At Laurel Hall School, our values are reflected in our EMBRACE Graduate Learning Outcomes, which guide student growth in academics, character, creativity, and faith.