Liberal arts for all

We are a K-12 charter public school rooted in the liberal arts, dedicated to the pursuit of learning for its own sake in all subject areas. We believe all students deserve to be part of "the great conversation" that has endured for centuries, and that, with their participation, will last into the future.

Students
Students

Community of Learners

We believe learning happens best in a community. Students at MacLaren learn to question, propose solutions, and deepen their understanding together in mutual respect. They come to see that they learn better with others than alone.

The Arts

At MacLaren, arts are not electives or specials. All students are immersed in creating beauty daily, be it in studio art, art history, Kodály choir, orchestra, or drama.

Orchestra student playing violin
Student Athletes

Athletics and Clubs

Highlanders bring their pursuit of excellence to the court and field.

Our clubs and sports programs offer venues to pursue wonder and excellence for its own sake, whether it’s learning the art of photography or how to shoot a basket.

MacLaren Library

Project Week: Learning for its Own Sake
Project Week: Learning for its Own Sake
Posted on 1/22/2024
As students brought in their Project Week Projects, one teacher overheard some juniors talking about their eleventh-grade research project on Thucydides’ The Peloponnesian War. One group had built a map of Greece which was so large that it required two sawhorses to hold it. They had researched the intricacies of a particular battle, and the physical map allowed them to demonstrate the troop movements. As this group was sharing with thei ...
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What is a Liberal Arts Education?
What is a Liberal Arts Education?
Posted on 1/15/2024
Reading our mission statement, one might observe that it says nothing whatsoever about getting into a great college, having a successful career, or getting high test scores. Of course we are happy for our students to have those experiences, but we believe that humans ultimately desire more—are meant for more—than these exterior goods. ...
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The Great Conversation - Mother Goose
The Great Conversation - Mother Goose
Posted on 1/05/2024
The Great Conversation is a monthly post featuring contributions from MacLaren's faculty. This month, Mr. Alvarado shares thoughts about the beauty of Mother Goose. ...
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Creating Beauty through Fine Art
Creating Beauty through Fine Art
Posted on 12/05/2023
At MacLaren, everyone is an artist. Throughout the school day, students learn to see beauty all around – in their surroundings, in other people, and in the artwork that lines the school halls. While growing an appreciation for beauty, students receive focused instruction to create their own works of art. ...
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Curriculum Days
Curriculum Days
Posted on 12/05/2023
MacLaren invites its students of all ages to explore a rich curriculum with a sense of wonder and inquiry. Throughout the year, Curriculum Days provide an opportunity for students to temporarily shift from the normal rhythm of classroom life to enjoy in greater detail a particular aspect of their studies. ...
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Bridget Rector named as next Executive Director
Bridget Rector named as next Executive Director
Posted on 10/26/2023
Thomas MacLaren School is pleased to announce that the MacLaren Board of Directors has voted unanimously to name Bridget Rector as Thomas MacLaren School’s next Executive Director. Last year, Mary Faith Hall, one of the three founders of MacLaren and the school’s leader since its founding, announced that she would retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year. By finding and naming her successor now, the Board is affording Mrs. Hall a ye ...
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"One of the best decisions we have made for our children’s education is sending them to Thomas MacLaren School. The curriculum, though rigorous, is preparing our children, not only for college, but a lifetime of knowledge and character. This school offers every student a well-rounded liberal arts education, challenging each student to do their best and be their best." - Sharon T., parent

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