Manzanita School and Institute is a one-of-a-kind, independent K-12 school in the Santa Monica mountains. Combining rigorous college preparatory academics and immersive experiences in wild nature, Manzanita is at the forefront of changing educational paradigms.

In 2024, Manzanita celebrates its tenth year of operations. As a young school, we rely on fundraising to supplement tuition and contribute to all elements of our mission, whether it’s maintaining our 4:1 adult to student ratio, supporting our Institute speaker series programming, or contributing to our financial aid program. No independent school can support itself on tuition alone.

We offer community events that support “funding our future" and welcome opportunities to partner with philanthropists, foundations, and aligned businesses. Your generosity keeps the Manzanita vision healthy and will allow it to thrive for generations to come.

F.A.Q.

How does Manzanita fundraise?

Each year Manzanita launches an annual giving campaign, aiming to raise funds from parents of current students as well as alumnae families and others in our greater community. The Manzanita Parent Alliance also raises funds for our programs through several community events held on and off campus throughout the academic year. Your participation is integral to our success on both these fronts.

Does Manzanita have an endowment?

In 2024, to launch our tenth anniversary year, we are announcing the launch of our inaugural endowment campaign. Independent schools rely on endowments to provide financial stability for the school, resilience for its physical campus, and allow for an inclusive community via a strong financial aid program.

I’ve bought my event tickets, how else can I participate?

Parents of children enrolled at Manzanita are welcome to join our Parent Alliance meetings and find out more about how they can collaborate with the school on giving. Our events need creative thinkers, strategists, and those who wish to fill day-of volunteer slots.