It is a well-known independent secondary school for girls in grades 7-12 in the city. In addition, it was listed as one of the Best Girls’ Schools in America in 2016. For more information, please visit losangeles1.one.
The story of Marlborough School
The private school is located in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles at 250 South Rossmore Avenue. Marlborough School was established by a young teacher from Maine, New England, in 1889. She was Mary S. Caswell, an American passionate educator and writer. Originally named St. Margaret’s School for Girls, it has a rich history of providing quality education to young women.
In 1890, the school relocated to Pasadena and changed its name. The school’s establisher remained in charge till her death in 1924. Following her, Ada Blake from Louisville Collegiate School assumed the role of leader.
Under Ada Blake’s leadership, the school’s program grew significantly. Marlborough School developed a reputation as a place where young ladies got a rigorous education.
What is known about Mary S. Caswell?
Mary S. Caswell is recognized for her contribution to establishing a school for girls in Portland in 1883. However, in 1888, she made the difficult decision to sell the institution and relocate to Southern California. This move was primarily motivated by her daughter’s health concerns and a careful evaluation of future opportunities. Following the loss of her husband, Mary embarked on a journey across the country with her daughter and niece, eventually settling in Southern California. This transition presented a fresh start and promising prospects for the young teacher.
Upon establishing St. Margaret’s School for Girls, Mary S. Caswell noted the lack of rules within the institution. This crucial information was included in the 1902 report. At the beginning of each academic year, Mary S. Caswell informs the girls of their duties and entitlements, explaining the reasons behind their actions and the resulting outcomes.
Mary S. Caswell has published several books. She also co-wrote The Marlborough Course in Art History (1919) with Anna McConnell Beckley.
Mary S. Deering, previously known by her maiden name, married George A. Caswell in 1878. Unfortunately, George passed away just two years later. Mary went on to have a daughter named Georgia Caswell Overton. From 1948 to 1962, she took on the role of acting principal at Marlborough School. Mary S. Caswell lived a long life and peacefully departed in her seventies, finding her final resting place at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
Support for the girls’ school
In 1948, Mrs. Helen Mitchell became the new principal of Marlborough School. Her focus has been on preparing graduates for college. Ten years later, Helen and Kenneth Mitchell acquired the school.
The 1960s marked a new era. During this period, the school established a non-profit foundation with its own Board of Trustees. They commissioned William Pereira, an American architect from Chicago, to design a new building.
In the latter half of the 20th century, the school received support from the Los Angeles business community. Notable figures among the local ‘titans’ made generous donations. Among them were Robert H. Ahmanson, an esteemed American entrepreneur and philanthropist from Los Angeles and Charlie Munger.
The school is celebrating its 135th anniversary in 2024.
Investigation
Back in 2014, an unfortunate incident took place. At that time, there was an investigation and further imprisonment of a school teacher for sexual harassment. The incident gained significant attention due to its high-profile nature. A former English teacher at Marlborough School was sentenced to one year in prison, with five more years of probation, because he pleaded guilty to sex charges.
In 2000, Joseph Thomas Koetters, then 48 years old, began a relationship with a 16-year-old schoolgirl. The relationship lasted for two years, during which time the girl became pregnant but subsequently miscarried.
According to the lawyer who represented the interests of both victims, Koetters pressured the student in every possible way to have an abortion. Living under stress for several months resulted in a young woman suffering a miscarriage.
In 2004, another student contacted the police, reporting that she had a relationship with the teacher. In 2014, he confessed to his crimes.
Prominent graduates:
- Anne Archer, a film and television actress who was named Miss Golden Globe in 1971
- Diane Disney Miller, daughter of Walt Disney, became famous for her writing and philanthropy and later became involved in the wine business
- Betsy Bloomingdale is an American society personality and philanthropist. She was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1970 for her iconic fashion sense.
- Margaret Anne ‘Peggy’ Moffitt, an American model and actress who gained fame in the 1960s for her work with fashion designer Rudi Gernreich. Together, they developed a signature style characterized by aggressive makeup and an asymmetrical haircut.
- Sasha Rebecca Spielberg, an acclaimed actress and musician, also known as Buzzy Lee
- Leigh Bardugo, an American fantasy author and writer.
The list of accomplished women goes on and on. This private school has nurtured numerous talented individuals who have excelled in various fields.
Student life
Education at the school for girls is empowering. When speaking with female students, you can sense their pride and confidence in achieving their goals and understanding their potential.
The intense program of student life is worth mentioning separately. With over 90 student clubs and interest groups, there are plenty of options to explore. Furthermore, students are provided with abundant chances to assume leadership positions within the student government.
If a student wishes to initiate something that is not yet in existence, that’s not a problem either. The school administration will provide the necessary support. The period of student life in school is an excellent opportunity to form lasting bonds. Also, students acquire valuable knowledge on showcasing leadership abilities. Throughout its extensive history, the institution has cultivated numerous traditions that hold immense importance in the lives of the school, its students and its graduates.
Pumpkin Day. Every year on Halloween, Marlborough School creates a carnival atmosphere. Students, teachers and school administration dress up in costumes and participate in a parade and competition.
Class Colors and Song. Before leaving the middle school, students choose their class colors and songs. These colors will accompany them on their journey to high school and during the various celebrations, they will sing a song chosen with pride.
At the end of the school year, a special ceremony is held to honor the graduating middle school students with a Marlborough School Pin.
The 10th-grade students have a well-established tradition of creating a banner presentation that showcases the exceptional qualities of their class. This banner accompanies students throughout their journey and is then displayed with pride in the Senior Lounge once they transition into their senior year.
Each year, it has become a tradition for the senior class to choose and introduce their very own class mascot. This mascot often takes the form of a fictional character that embodies the collective personality of the graduates. Over the years, various mascots have been selected, including iconic figures like The Pink Panther, Madeline, Wonder Woman, Vector, The Lorax and Interesting George.
How has school changed?
Marlborough School has undergone significant growth and transformation. As the oldest independent school for girls in Southern California, Marlborough School has been recognized as one of the best in America by Town & Country magazine in 2016.
The school now boasts a diverse and talented student body comprising exceptional young women. Additionally, the school has greatly expanded its range of academic and athletic programs. As a result, gaining admission to Marlborough School requires considerable effort due to the high level of competition among female students.
The Marlborough School, located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles is a distinguished private college preparatory institution exclusively for girls. The school administration takes immense pride in the accomplishments of its graduates and is dedicated to creating a nurturing and welcoming learning atmosphere. The school offers abundant opportunities for its students to acquire and enhance their knowledge.