From the Principal
My name is Marti McCloud, and it is my privilege to serve as Principal of Laurel Hall School. In our close-knit TK–8 community, every student is known, supported, and empowered to develop skills for life success. Through our Formative Five—empathy, self-control, integrity, embracing diversity, and grit—students develop the character and skills they need to navigate challenges and contribute positively to their communities. 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.
Our students are also well prepared for the transition to high school. Last year, 30 Laurel Hall students were accepted to Notre Dame High School, and our graduates have also continued to Loyola, Crespi, Immaculate Heart, Providence, Campbell Hall, Buckley, Oakwood, and other leading high schools. Our strong Fine Arts program prepares our students for elite programs such as Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA), one of the region’s most competitive performing arts schools; with more than 700 applicants each year, three Laurel Hall students have been accepted in the past two years.
I invite you to visit Laurel Hall, meet our teachers, and experience the warmth and energy of our community. We look forward to welcoming you to the Hive! Go Hornets!
Warmly,
Marti McCloud
