Bishop's School, The

Posted: August 29, 2026

As active parents, we are somewhat disappointed. With tuition over $50,000 per student, Bishops can do better. Bishops is a good school but many issues simply do not get addressed.
1. Transparency Around Grades
Teachers can maintain a “closed grade book.” In some classes, students can go much of the semester without knowing where they stand. They may some feedback but have little idea of their overall grade until after the final exam.
Some teachers do an excellent job keeping grades open. Students then understand expectations, identify areas for improvement, and take ownership. We believe this should be standard across every class.
This closed policy should be changed.
2. Inclusivity and Balance
We strongly believe Bishops should be a welcoming community where every student feels respected and included. At the same time, the school places significant attention on trans and LGBTQ+ topics. These are important issues, but the constant focus can sometimes feel overwhelming and create resistance among students. We would like a more balanced approach.
3. Cheating
Cheating is a real issue.
4. Caring Teachers
We genuinely appreciate the many Bishops teachers who care deeply about their students. Unfortunately, there are also teachers who have agendas. Consistency matters.
5. Athletics and Academics
Athletics can be a tremendous advantage for highly accomplished athletes in the college admissions process. Bishops is academically demanding, and students compete against applicants from schools where grades are more generously awarded. For students who are not elite athletes, difficult grading put them at a disadvantage in the college process. Elite universities will only accept one or two from Bishops and they take the athletes.
6. Money and Perception
There is a perception that money, family connections, and Board involvement influence how students are recognized. When students who are not the strongest receive prominent awards, it creates frustration. The graduation awards from the last couple of years are an example.
7. Overall
We genuinely believe Bishops is a good school. We should expect transparency, consistency, integrity, fairness, and a willingness to address problems. The annual fundraising campaign is about to begin, and parents are repeatedly asked to give more—sometimes receiving multiple texts a week. Before asking families for more money, we would like to see the administration demonstrate that it is listening and fixing.

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: August 29, 2026

Posted: February 4, 2024

As a 2009 graduate, I still think very fondly of my time at Bishop's. I was challenged and supported in my growth. Having teachers also be coaches for extracurricular activities was great as I felt supported with academics and sports. I went to a college that no one in the 100 year history had even applied to, and I am so proud to say the career and college advisors have supported the school I went to as more students are going each year.

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: February 4, 2024

Posted: November 22, 2023

We have had a great experience at the school. We would highly recommend it.

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: November 22, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

I have ADHD and felt profoundly unsupported during my unhappy tenure there. I was tracked into the slow version of physical science which put me at a profound disadvantage compared to my peers, who all took advanced physical science. Then, when I showed up AP Biology I was treated like an idiot because I struggled at first. The teacher actually told the then dean of students that I wasn't the smartest. When I couldn't finish tests in the time allotted she practically took the test from me. At the end of the semester, I redeemed myself by scoring highly on the AP Exam. The teacher was shocked and had to concede that I was a good student after all. I ultimately scored at the 97th percentile on the SAT and managed to perform well on several subsequent science and math AP courses and ultimately on professional exams. Objectively, I'm not *that* stupid.

But these experiences scarred me and undermined the already low confidence that I had in myself.

With no help and no support from Bishop's for the nonneurotypical, I succeeded not because of them, but in spite of them. And my family paid out the you-know-what for the "privilege."

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: October 24, 2023

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Posted: April 14, 2022

Here's something to think about for all you Carmel Valley families...is it really worth over $40k per year to send your child to Bishop's? If CCA were a private school, don't you think they could charge even more based on their results? Smart kids do well regardless of the school. The teaching at TBS is no better than anywhere else. The bottom 50% of TBS students wind up at average to below-average colleges. So what did you spend all that money on? Bragging rights? Smart people make smart investments. If you're so rich that money doesn't matter to you, by all means support the lavish lifestyles of the top admins at this school, but you're wasting your money. I worked at the school for years and I can tell you that it has fallen and is on the downslope, just living off its reputation because smart kids do well IN SPITE OF what goes on here, NOT because of it.

Posted: October 29, 2019

Exceptional school with caring teachers and an engaged, talented, and friendly student body.

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: October 29, 2019

Posted: July 5, 2017

This school is for those kids who have a solid background in academics and who are willing to work hard. These kids can benefit the most from the class and home work. Many teachers choose student centered and problem based teaching so it is essential that the students do their work at home and participate actively in classroom discussions.

Posted: July 5, 2017

Personally I know many teachers work hard on curriculum design and form teach teams so they can work together more effectively. The experienced teachers always help those who are new. They like their students and often spend extra time after school to work with them.

Posted: July 5, 2017

The enrichment period in almost every school day plays an important role in the development of strong characters for the students. They can listen, talk and learn from others what a responsible citizen should do.

Posted: July 5, 2017

The administration works hard to keep the school running smoothly. I would wish the turnover rate could be lower. But it is hard to keep good people to be attracted by other independent schools. Recently, the academic dean as hired by another private school as the headmistress.

Posted: July 5, 2017

The school has very small class sizes so that all the teachers can handle each class effectively and pay attention to each individual in the class. Many students go to see their teachers for help during free periods or after school. The school health service does a great job in helping those with special needs to get the aids they need.

Posted: July 5, 2017

Excellent. I had taught in several colleges before coming the the school. Many of my colleagues helped me to adjust to the new environment. I feel I'm valued and respected in all the aspects of the school life.

Posted: May 24, 2017

My son has been at the Bishops's School 2 years now. I have nothing but praise. He is doing very well. He is happy and so am I.

Posted: October 2, 2015

Posted: October 2, 2015

Posted: October 2, 2015

Posted: October 2, 2015

This is a school that promotes intellectual curiosity and celebrates diversity in the student body. The kids are bright, well-intentioned, and well-rounded. There are athletes, musicians, artists, and all sorts but the common trait they all seem to share is that they are all interested in doing well in school. Kids think it's cool to be smart. A lot is asked of them but they graduate responsible, capable and intelligent human beings. Kids that go on to Ivy League schools and other great universities find that they have been well prepared and are not struggling...they can actually take advantage of all that college has to offer them versus feel like they are sinking. Teachers and administrators want to see the kids succeed and give them a lot of tools and support. We really appreciate that Bishop's on the whole is not very clique-y compared to many high schools and it's nice to see jocks who are also the lead in the student plays. It is probably the school that is most reminiscent of East Coast prep school out here in San Diego if that is the kind of experience you are looking for.

Posted: April 27, 2015

The kids here are so mean! I am a little bit overweight and today, my classmates in pE made fun of me in the locker rooms. Bishops is terrible

Posted: April 18, 2015

My two sons have been students at The Bishop's School since the 6th grade (now in 7th and 9th). A premiere education is of utmost importance to our family but must also be a warm, safe and kind environment where the children as individuals are cared for, celebrated and nurtured as they grow into responsible, honest, caring and knowledgeable citizens. Bishop's has offered all of this to my sons and more. It is also a beautiful campus with the aura of an East Coast Preparatory School. Certainly not every school is right for every child, but I can assure without hesitation The Bishop's School is one of the finest. Dr. Mona Mofid

Posted: November 18, 2014

Excellent academic institution with a diversity of talented kids. Best preparation for college than any school in San Diego!

Posted: September 11, 2014

Great school for kids who are already high-performers. How about the rest of them? Mediocre at best...weak students, poor teaching and acceptance at some pretty lame colleges considering the amount of money invested.

Posted: August 30, 2014

BEST school ever! I've been extremely impressed with the level of rigor in the classrooms, the inclusive setting where every student feels a sense of belonging, and the supportive teachers who will do whatever it takes to help your son/daughter succeed. I worried for years and years about selecting the "right" school for my daughter and I am so thankful that we decided to send her to Bishop's.

Posted: March 2, 2014

The Bishop's School has a good heart. It's mind is in the right place but I don't know how well its doing exceucting all that it has it's eyes on. I am a current Junior at the school whos gone here since freshmen year and see the cracks in the schools armor. Know that the arts program is a bit rigged because the students who have been here since middle school will be on the theater/singing etc. mind before the new students. Be sure you know what the idea of community is at this school-- most if not all the students are involved in time consuming activities that make out of school stuff extrememly hard. Don't expect to form a band with classmates unless your neighbors-- which is a low low low chance at Bishops since my classmates are from all over the county. Like ANYWHERE the teachers range from the worst oh god why are you here to the best are you a messiah level. Get ready for a heavy workload!! I think the diversity can be greatly improved since it is nearly nonexistent. We may be diverse in thought, MAYBE, but far from diverse in color.

Posted: November 21, 2013

The Bishop's School is unique, in that everyone has something to offer. Every student has a passion, or a talent. The four years here have been the best of my life, and I feel privileged to have spent it in the company of such intelligent and sincere people.

Posted: November 29, 2012

Our children have had a phenomenal experience at this school. They are curious, well-rounded kids who are involved in sports and the arts, and have thrived in this challenging academic environment. We are as involved as working parents can be, and love the opportunities to be part of this school community. They have improved the technology in the classrooms and the learning center and library are first-rate. The performing arts programs are exceptional. Your kids can find their passion and excel at this school, whether it is academics, athletics, arts, or all of the above. We love that our students can pursue subjects through independent study if the school does not offer a course, and there are teachers who are dedicated and passionate about their students. Graduates come back and say that college is easy for them because Bishop's taught them how to be successful in academics. It is worth every penny.

Posted: November 3, 2012

The school is fantastic for students who are passionate about some cause, sport, or activity. It is brimming with talented students from all of the county. The students respect one another's gifts and recognize their talents. In addition, the school boasts an excellent academic program, much more rigorous and specialized than those of San Diego public schools or other private schools in the area. Some concerns include the environment of wealthy students. From personal experience, they are not arrogant, not because they are inherently so, but rather the environment The Bishop's School provides. Nurturing of talents, as well as providing opportunities to learn and grow make the school very special.

Posted: May 16, 2012

As a student of The Bishop's School, I am constantly academically stimulated. The small class sizes, and dedicated teachers enrich my learning. Despite some beliefs, Bishop's is not made up of arrogant students, but is instead filled with students who express a curiosity for knowledge. The only downside is that the transition from a public school to Bishop's can be challenging as it was for me. K-8 I was in public school, and I made all A's, but upon transferring, I received my first B. However, once one becomes accustomed to the work load and difficulty of Bishop's one will fully realize the benefits of this school.

Posted: April 19, 2012

I don't think parents should be submitting review. They're not the ones going to school at Bishop's, after all. The teachers are great. It doesn't matter if some of their styles are "antique," they're still doing a fantastic job of teaching the information. And no, the school will not necessarily stress you out. There is a wide range of courses available, with workloads highly depending on the classes one takes. I, as well as others I know, aren't taking classes just for a good transcript. That's not why we go to Bishop's. We go to Bishop's because it allows us to enjoy learning in classes we want to take. And why does it matter if the buildings are outdated? My grandfather was educated in a very small, old school with inadequate facilities but received numerous degrees, including one from MIT. So listen to the people who go to Bishop's and spend more of their time there than at home, not parents. I wake up before 6:00 AM every morning, live 25 miles from school, and spend tons of time commuting and doing homework. I'm not stressed though. Part of going to Bishop's is taking advantage of your opportunity at the school, not complaining about it.

Posted: February 8, 2012

Good school, but falling behind Parker in many areas. Seems to be a follower, not a leader.

Posted: January 31, 2012

The Bishop's School is a truly amazing school. It provides students with the tools to become grateful, intellectual, and thoughtful citizens. Most of the students have 100+ hours of community service, exceeding the required amount. The Bishop's School provides students with opportunities to play any sport he/she deems interesting without fear of being cut from the team. But the school also maintains an excellent record of academics and athletics. The school has some of the best Water Polo, Lacrosse, Tennis, and Soccer Players in the state as well as many nationally ranked Squash Players and Tennis Players.

Posted: January 31, 2012

Bishop's places a huge emphasis on extracurriculars. They are willing to give any student an opportunity at leadership or becoming a better citizen by encouraging any extracurricular project or activity. The main reason they offer few AP classes to 10th graders is the fact they want the students to build connections and experiences rather than get bogged down by repeated studying for classes that they have 2 more years to enrich themselves in. It's a great philosophy. And the results don't lie; Wall Street Journal's survey in 2007 listed The Bishop's School as the top Ivy League Feeder School in San Diego and one of the top schools in the nation. Sending your child here gives them a great advantage, as they are exposed to the best teachers and staff in San Diego.

Posted: January 20, 2012

Fabulous school with excellent leadership. The kids are focused and the teachers are dedicated. Students are respected.

Posted: December 4, 2011

THIS IS AN AWESOME SCHOOL..GREAT TEACHERS , GREAT LEADERSHIP, GREAT KIDS...EXTREMELY FAST PACED FOR HIGHLY INTELLIGENT STUDENTS... SUPER ATHLETICS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Posted: November 12, 2011

Bishop's has been a phenomenal experience for our son. The school is academically incredible and attracts teacher's who are some of the best in the country. The school raises the bar so the students want to excel and they enjoy learning. The students are some of the brightest, they want to learn and excel and the teachers foster this. Arts and athletics are excellent and both supported by the school extensively. The extra programs Bishop's offers the students to select from are college level. The Bishop's School is an educational experience that sets you for life and our son is very grateful.

Posted: October 5, 2011

You are best to look elsewhere for a private education. My daughter showed notes to a student who had attended Bishops eight years ago. The notes were almost exact. I think Bishops has digressed to what I call the "filing cabinet" teaching style. Preparing for class consists of opening the filing cabinet and copying the same set of notes, year after year. Seems like the good teachers all found new jobs. And the antiqued teachers keep their cabinets clean. My money could have been spent better elsewhere.

Posted: July 11, 2011

Awesome school, why does it say it only has 2 stars when almost everyone gave it 5 stars? - Student

Posted: July 5, 2011

I am a current student at Bishop's and I love it beyond belief. After splitting from the public school track, I have watched my friends struggle with social and academic issues that I have not occurred at Bishop's. The academic curriculum can be stressful, but I 100% believe that I have grown as a student. There really is a community, and the people are friendly (not just elite competitive snobs as described below). Sure, there is a competitive atmosphere at times, but it is beneficial to the overall experience. The stress is no greater than any other high school, but Bishop's supplies incredible experiences that you cannot find anywhere else. I love Bishop's, and do not understand the negative reviews. I have grown as a student and person attending this school.

Posted: June 16, 2011

Bishop's is the perfect place for our son! In the public school system he was ridiculed by his peers for wanting to learn more. At Bishop's every student who is motivated to excel can find his niche and the teachers encourage those students who want to push themselves. He has been exposed to thoughts and small group discussions which have broadened his intellect. He has a group of friends who also push themselves academically and he believes it is ok to be smart. Regardless of whether you are an artist or an athlete (or both!), there is a place for these intelligent and motivated kids to fit in and be accepted for who they are. Tuition is high, but worth every penny. We are neither wealthy nor on scholarship but have made adjustments to our lifestyle in order to make the gift of a fabulous education a reality. This is not the right place for a student who is unmotivated or too cool for school. Fundraising really only occurs once a year (beginning of school), which is VERY nice! It is wonderful to be asked only once to give - that way we give the most we can afford and not have to worry about being hit up again and again. We love Bishop's!!!

Posted: April 25, 2011

Bishop's was the best thing we could have done for our son! This is his first year at Bishop's and the school is more than we hoped. He started as a Freshman. Bishop's was recommended to us by his former teachers, who believed the academic challenge along with the highly social atmosphere would be a perfect fit for him. As a family we are not rich, but we make a good living. We did not receive financial aid. We adjusted our way of life he could have a fine education. Although this school is not inexpensive it is worth the money. He wakes up every morning at 5 am to catch a bus, (the transportation is excellent). If he is participating in sports the bus drops him off at 6:55 pm. At home he finishes his homework. But he constantly tells us he loves his school. His social life is at school, and on the weekends, going out for pizza after sports, dances, parties. His teachers keep the academics exciting. Almost all have multiple degrees. He has made friends with students from all backgrounds. He is completely secure, the economic status of his classmates has not been an issue. Next year he starts AP & honors classes based on his grades & teacher recommendations not politics.

Posted: February 27, 2011

I have no idea what the reviewer who gave the school one star on September 13, 2010 is talking about. My daughter took 12 AP courses while she was at Bishop's, and she was accepted early by both Cal Tech and MIT. She was also accepted by Princeton. Bishop's is an absolutely first rate school. Everything about it is the best, especially the teachers.

Posted: January 24, 2011

I really like the direction that the new headmaster has taken the school over the past year and a half. My son has thoroughly enjoyed his classes and is challenged by the curriculum. He particularly enjoys the Latin and English classes. We've been impressed by how involved the teachers are with the kids, attending athletic events, calling us at home if homework is late, and being available outside of class hours for questions and help. Of course, the athletic successes of the past few years have been great, but I like the fact that participation is so high, and that there seems to be equal participation in the performing arts programs. We had been worried that our son would lose touch with reality and be surrounded by privilege, but his friends are down-to-earth (for the most part), and we like the other parents. The school is worth every penny.

Posted: January 21, 2011

Bishop's used to set the standard for learning in San Diego. Not anymore. After 30 years of the same leadership, it finds itself clinging to the past with a mostly outdated campus and teaching practice. While the academics are strong, they are achieved through pressure, overwhelming work and intense competition. Francis Parker School and La Jolla Country Day have now eclipsed Bishop's in nearly every way, including college placement.

Posted: December 10, 2010

I am a current senior at Bishop's, and have gone there since 7th grade. I don't know why many of the reviews are negative in any way at all except for the amount of fundraising going on- there are constant reminders around school about the importance of giving back, whether by current students, or alumni. Honestly, I would definitely give back though, this school has changed me so much for the better. Even in the hard times, there are teachers and counselors at school who are much more like friends than anything. They are always willing to listen and get me through whatever help I need- academic, social, or otherwise. The kids who moved to La Jolla High or other high schools moved due to inability to work hard in classes, or because their other friends didn't go to Bishop's. The school leadership talks to the students often about what it wants, which are clear and reasonable expectations- to be respectful, clean up after yourself, and do your best. As for the academics, I know people who have 5 minutes of homework a night, and those with 5 hours. It all depends on your skill and what classes you take, because that is all in the students' control.

Posted: December 10, 2010

I have never, in the experience of others or of myself, witnessed a teacher who didn't want to be where they were, teaching and helping kids. The faculty tries to inject fun into daily life, and reduce stress by having outings and events that almost all students participate in. It says a lot when almost the entire school comes to watch sports, arts, and other events, since there is so much school spirit. Now, if students hated the school, there wouldn't be support for any of these events, but that is not the case. The social life is like a watered down and much more accepting version of most high schools. We learn to accept others on what they can do, not what they look like/where they come from/etc. I don't know many schools where there could be speakers at announcements with learning disabilities, and not have kids titter, or be disrespectful, but this is the case at Bishop's. Even though I am leaving soon, I, among thousands, will come to visit school long after I have graduated for the learning and life I have received at Bishop's. Send your kids here. If they care about what they are doing, they will succeed long beyond their career at this school.