Watching a seal pup vanish into the crashing surf at La Jolla Cove, two people argue: is he in danger—or learning to survive? A simple “just what we need right now” story reveals everything about how we lead, teach, and care—and where we can rest our minds through the changes.
Masthead
Welcome to The Grauer School!
As a premier independent private school in San Diego, we are steadfastly dedicated to preparing tomorrow’s leaders for roles in our global community. The Grauer School was founded in 1991 by Dr. Stuart Grauer to provide teens with an environment to develop their own empowered voices. Our green, six-acre campus in Encinitas, California offers diverse programs accommodating approximately 160 students in grades seven through 12.
Our Socratic learning environment allows our students to stand on their own two feet while developing critical thinking skills necessary to meet the unique challenges of a rapidly changing society and world. Our curriculum allows students the flexibility to take classes for fun, learn how to make mistakes, become confident pursuing their passions, and ultimately follow their hearts doing things they are drawn to, rather than plotting out preordained or controlled paths they have little or no control over.
At The Grauer School, we believe our students achieve more enduring outcomes by cultivating independent thinking faculties necessary for self-empowerment, which includes forming core values like personal motivation, freedom, and courage. Our innovative curriculum has resulted in many students matriculating to the nation’s finest colleges and universities. As an inclusive independent school committed to celebrating diversity in all forms, we welcome students of many cultural and social backgrounds throughout the United States and across the globe.
A visit here could easily change the way you see great education
Latest News
View All News
Marine Biology and Environmental Science students participated in the Ocean Institute’s Advanced Floating Lab program. This unique experience took place aboard a research vessel, where students actively engaged in real scientific investigation.
The 11th graders in US History class hosted an Author's Chair event, to share excerpts from the World War II research papers they wrote. Students wrote about topics including the Office of Strategic Services, Japanese American Internment, the Battle of the Bulge and women's roles during World War II.
An Inclusive Independent Private School in San Diego

96% Acceptance rate to the
top two colleges of choice

176 Sister schools worldwide
(UNESCO Associated Schools)

41Countries students
have traveled to on expeditions

Top 10 Places to work in the U.S.
-Outside Magazine

70% Student body participation in team sports
Grauer Events
All parents are invited to join the monthly Parent Association Meetings, held at 9:00am in Meyer Hall.
Monthly Topic: Gala, Coffee & Crafting
PA Co-Presidents: Ann Chhokar & Jenny Hong
Faculty Lead: Lindsay Zickler
The High School Theatre Department will be presenting a Cabaret Night event on April 30 at 6:30pm in Meyer Hall. Faculty Lead: Erin Langen.