The College Preparatory School

The College Preparatory School is a non-sectarian independent day school in Oakland, California, serving roughly 300 to 500 students in grades 9 through 12. It draws from across the East Bay and broader Bay Area, bringing together a student body that is academically ambitious and intentionally diverse. There is no religious affiliation, which shapes a culture built around inquiry rather than doctrine.

Teaching at College Prep centers on dialogue. Faculty are expected to go deep into ideas with students, not race through material to cover a syllabus. Language offerings include Mandarin, Latin, and Spanish — an unusual range for a school of this size. In practice, teachers here work with students who want to argue, question, and think hard, which makes classroom dynamics different from most high schools.

The school's financial position gives it real stability. Net assets reached $68 million in 2023, with annual revenue near $24 million. Fundraising grew by more than 30 percent in the most recent reporting year. For job seekers, that kind of financial health typically means steady salaries, benefits, and consistent investment in faculty resources.

The College Preparatory School hires across departments — humanities, sciences, mathematics, and languages — plus roles in college counseling, administration, and student support. Because the school is small, each faculty hire carries weight. Teachers often shape curriculum directly and work closely with colleagues across disciplines.

Oakland itself is part of the draw. The East Bay location offers access to a major metro area while the school stays intimate. For educators who want rigor, a secular environment, and an urban California setting, this is a distinctive combination.