Skip to main content| Skip to main navigation| Skip to section navigation| Skip to secondary content| Home | Sign In | Contact Us | Site Map

Philosophy and Mission

At Gateway we believe that the purpose of education goes far beyond teaching academics and preparing students for the world of work. We prepare our students to become responsible, contributing members of our world community. We foster self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-discipline; the ability to cooperate, collaborate, and resolve conflicts; a desire to excel, to create, and to contribute; and a commitment to personal, social and environmental responsibility.

Mission Statement

  • To challenge students with a rich and engaging academic program
  • To prepare students for future success – in school and beyond
  • To encourage students to give their personal best
  • To develop character and a commitment to personal, social and environmental responsibility
  • To inspire the passion for lifelong learning

A Gateway Student Strives to Be:

  • intellectually curious and eager to learn
  • willing to formulate and investigate own questions
  • able to read and think critically
  • willing to participate meaningfully in classroom activity
  • able to work collaboratively in a group environment (without a great deal of one-on-one support)
  • able to express him or herself effectively in verbal, written and artistic forms
  • empathetic and considerate of others
  • able to take responsibility for actions
  • able to seek peaceful and cooperative solutions to problems
  • able to perform above grade level by national norms

“Gateway students have a confidence that carries through their life. High school teachers say they are confident, are not intimidated by new challenges, and take charge of their learning. These are special characteristics that are cultivated at Gateway.”

—Fane O. Gateway parent of three alumni

CAIS Accreditation

Find out more about the high standards of CAIS schools!

CAIS Website


“Gateway School is committed to engaging children in a learning environment that maintains their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.”

Deborah Stipek, Dean of Stanford University School of Education

Research Support

Learn more about research that supports Gateway’s educational philosophy.

Deborah Stipek Bio

Motivated Minds by D. Stipek


WASC Accreditation

Find out more about the integrity of WASC accredited schools!

WASC Website


Gateway News

On the family news pages, you can see how our philosophy and mission are implemented in the daily life of our school!

Family News

© 2007 Gateway School

126 Eucalyptus Ave   Santa Cruz, California 95060
Main office: (831) 423-0341 · Fax: (831) 454-0843