Academic Insights - Junipero Serra High School

Who We Are
Our Padres thrive in a culture of support, encouragement and motivation. Developing strength of character and a keen sense of self, boys grow into confident young men prepared for college and the changing world ahead.
Admissions
We purposefully enroll a freshman class that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We focus on an applicant's foundation, as well as his genuine desire to be an active Padre committed to the values of respect, integrity, inclusion and compassion.
Academics
Serra's exceptional college-prep curriculum inspires students to tap into their intellectual curiosity by challenging them to be critical thinkers, keen analysts and creative problem solvers, nurturing a growth mindset.
Faith & Service
Campus ministry is the beating heart of our school community. Padres of all faiths are given an opportunity to explore their unique spirituality, while also engaging in meaningful and rewarding service opportunities and social justice outreach.
Athletics
Commitment, resilience and perseverance are among the life skills our student-athletes take away from their participation in Serra's legendary athletics program, which is a source of pride and camaraderie for our entire Serra community.
Support Serra
Each new generation of Padres is blessed by the generous support of parents, alumni and friends who "pay it forward," giving unselfishly of their time, talents and financial resources. Their siempre adelante spirit helps to ensure excellence in all aspects of Padre life.
Arts
Serra's acclaimed visual and performing arts classes and programs encourage students to find their voices, unleash their talents and express their creativity in a dynamic environment led by an exceptional, experienced faculty.
Padre Life
Padre life is what happens in all the ways and places a young man travels on his journey through high school. At Serra, there are many avenues to consider, and each Padre is encouraged to explore his unique interests and talents—all the while supported by a network of people and programs focused on life balance, wellbeing and individual growth.
Summer
Your summer! Your adventure! Summer at Serra offers 10 unique programs for boys and girls ages 3-18 on our conveniently located campus.

Academic insights into the Serra Curriculum

Dr. Tara Mann: Science in the Serra Classroom

Six-Part Series

In this six part series, Dr. Mann describes how she engages students in a modern science classroom.

Serra's Curriculum Explained

Three-part Series

In this three-part series, English teacher Joel Ferrando '90, explores the rigor and components of Serra's standards-based curriculum.

Dr. Chris Buckels '01: Critical Thinking

Five-part Series

Using the four year Theology progression, Dr. Chris Buckles '01 explains in this five-part series how and why critical thinking is incorporated into the Serra curriculum.

Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Opportunities at Serra

Former Assistant Principal of Academics, Keith Strange, shares that the "typical" Serra student is not "average".

Academic Departments

In each of these academic department videos, teachers walk through the four year progression and explain each department's goals and objectives.

Serra Conversations: College Counseling

With a upper division counselor to student ratio of 1 to 130, it is easy for counselors and students to connect and plan together.