THE ATHENIAN SCHOOL
http://www.athenian.org/
HistoryThe Athenian School was founded in 1965 by Dyke Brown, a graduate of Yale Law School, who was then Vice President of the Ford Foundation. Mr. Brown envisioned a school with the goal of Periclean Athens – the full development of each citizen. Intellectual growth, fitness of body and character, commitment to humane values, aesthetic sensitivity, and readiness for adult citizenship and leadership are Athenian’s objectives for each student.
The Athenian School was built on what was then known as the Blackhawk Ranch, at the foot of Mt. Diablo. It was originally a boarding school, grades nine through twelve, creating a community of learners in a rural setting. In 1979 a middle school was added, accepting day students in grades six through eight.
The demand for an Athenian education from the local community prompted the school to begin admitting more day students in the 1970s. Today, along with many new facilities and a larger number of day students, Athenian remains a close-knit family of those actively engaged in education.
The Athenian School prepares students for the rigorous expectations of college and for a life of purpose and personal fulfillment. Nearly every Athenian student goes on to study at a 4-year college or university, located throughout the United States and the world. The school stresses an appreciation of the reciprocal relationship between the individual and cultures, society and the natural world. Valuing the power and beauty of multiculturalism within our diverse community, Athenian embraces the principles of democratic governance, stewardship of the environment, respect for human dignity and service as a way of life.
By providing an atmosphere of intellectual, artistic, and physical challenge within the warmth of a nurturing community, The Athenian School develops in its students the confidence and skills required in meeting the complexities of their future.
Far ahead of his time, Dyke realized the importance of service, international understanding, diversity and adventure as integral parts of a strong academic curriculum. Forty five years later, these ideals have become a model for education in the 21st century.
2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd, Danville, California, 94506, USA | Tel: +1.925.837.5375 | Fax: +1.925.362.7292