SAN DOMENICO SCHOOL

SAN DOMENICO
SCHOOL
Founded 1850
Study
Community
inquiry, one develops intellectual curiosity, achieves
breaks, and regular sharing of hopes, dreams, fears,
success, and acquires meaning and purpose.
and goals, one realizes they are part of a bigger whole,
Reflection
and learns to move respectfully and fluidly across
In pursuit of academic excellence, and by practicing
From blogging about a class project, to enjoying an
intentional moment of silence after a recital, or a
meditation in the garden, it is through reflection that
Through morning meetings, group gatherings for soup
intellectual, spiritual, and cultural borders.
Service
It is not enough to think about making the world a
one learns to move forward with resiliency, greater
better place; one must engage with the realities of
self-awareness, stronger communication skills, and an
the world. Our values demand congruence between
inner drive to never stop growing.
what is inside one’s mind and what one cultivates
through action.
THE SD STUDENT. . .
. . . loves the process of learning as much as the result it yields.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 Facts At a Glance
6 College Acceptances
and Matriculations
. . . finds a joyful balance between rigorous academics and celebration of
community in athletics, creativity, arts, and music.
. . . is fully immersed in San Domenico’s innovative and rigorous academics,
informed by the Dominican values of study, reflection, community, and service.
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7
8
10
12
14
16
College Counseling
Curriculum
Clubs and Mini-Courses
Athletics
17
18
19
20
21
Music Conservatory / Technology
Sustainability
Buses and Transportation
Financial Aid
Tours, Visits, and Open House
Dates
22 Application Checklist
Boarding Program
Visual, Digital, and Performing Arts
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 3
CLASS OF 2015 BY THE NUMBERS
3.97
Highest
ACADEMICS
100
3.46
Courses Offered
Average
14
Unweighted GPA’s
1753
31.4
Average SAT
Scores
Average ACT
Scores
Critical Reading
Middle 50%: 480-630
Average: 564
Math
Middle 50%: 490-740
Average: 605
Writing
Middle 50%: 510-640
Average: 584
Total
Middle 50%: 1550-1940
English
Middle 50%: 31-34
Average: 33.0
Math
Middle 50%: 27-35
Average: 32.8
Reading
Middle 50%: 22-30
Average: 27.8
Science Reasoning
Middle 50%: 27-34
Average: 32.0
Composite
Middle 50%: 25-33
1850
Year SD was founded
Type of School
Independent school founded upon Dominican values.
Location
San Anselmo, California; 20 miles north of San Francisco
which makes SD the closest coed boarding school to
San Francisco.
Campus
515-acres of rolling hills that include hiking and mountain
bike trails, a one-acre sustainable garden, a swimming
pool, tennis courts, an equestrian facility, and a worldclass music conservatory.
Religion
In the Dominican tradition, San Domenico is a community
of inclusivity and belonging. We welcome students
of all faiths and encourage students to explore and
embrace their own unique spirituality.
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AP Courses Offered
25
Faculty members
80% hold advanced degrees
Average 12 years classroom
teaching experience
ADMISSIONS
251
7:1
Student to Faculty Ratio
13
Applications received
in 2015
Average Class Size
Students enrolled,
grades 9-11
ENROLLMENT
87
PLANS FOR GROWTH
260
Projected Enrollment for
2016-2017
320
Projected FULL Enrollment
for 2018-2019
TUITION
(2015-16)
639
Total K-12
$38,275
210
$54,200
Grade 9-12 (day)
High School
102
Boarding
Students
88
International
Students
Grade 9-12 (boarding)
35%
of our students
receive financial aid
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 5
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES AND MATRICULATION
San Francisco Conservatory of Music
San Francisco State University (1)
University of San Francisco
Academy of Art University
Columbia College Chicago
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1)
Alaska Pacific University
Concordia University - Portland
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Alfred University (Art & Design)
University of Connecticut
Messiah College
AMDA - The American Musical
Cornell University (1)
University of Miami
Cornish College of the Arts
Michigan State University (1)
American University
Denison University
University of Michigan (2)
Andrews University
University of Denver
Mills College (2)
The University of Arizona (1)
DePaul University
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
The Art Institute of California -- San Francisco
DePaul University (The Theatre School)
University of Missouri Columbia
Azusa Pacific University
DePauw University
Montana State University, Bozeman (1)
Bard College (1)
Dickinson College
Mount Holyoke College (1)
Barnard College (1)
Dominican University of California
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (1)
Benedictine College (1)
Drew University
New England Conservatory of Music (1)
Berkeley City College (1)
Drexel University (2)
New York Institute of Technology
Binghamton University
Eckerd College (1)
New York University (7)
Birmingham City University
Emerson College
Northeastern University (1)
Boston College
Emory & Henry College
Northern Arizona University
Boston Conservatory
Emory University
Notre Dame de Namur University
Boston University (4)
Fashion Institute of Technology
University of Notre Dame (1)
Brandeis University
Florida Institute of Technology
Occidental College (2)
Bryn Mawr College
Fordham University
Oregon State University (1)
California College of the Arts (San Francisco) (1)
Franklin and Marshall College
University of Oregon
California Lutheran University (1)
George Washington University (1)
Otis College of Art and Design (1)
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Georgia Institute of Technology
Pace University, New York City
California Polytechnic State University,
Gonzaga University (3)
Pacific University
Hamilton College - NY
University of the Pacific
California State University, Chico (1)
Hampshire College
Parsons The New School for Design (1)
California State University, Fullerton
Hampton University
The Peabody Institute of
California State University, Long Beach
Harvard University
California State University, Los Angeles
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Pennsylvania State University, University Park (2)
California State University, Monterey Bay
High Point University
Pepperdine University (3)
California State University, Northridge
College of the Holy Cross (1)
University of Pittsburgh
California State University, Sacramento
Howard University
Pitzer College (1)
University of California, Berkeley (11)
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (3)
Plymouth State University
University of California, Davis (2)
Immaculata University
Polytechnic Institute of NYU
University of California, Irvine (3)
Indiana University at Bloomington
University of Portland (1)
University of California, Los Angeles (3)
Ithaca College
Pratt Institute (1)
University of California, Merced
James Madison University
Princeton University (1)
University of California, Riverside
The Juilliard School (1)
Providence College
University of California, San Diego (8)
Kalamazoo College
University of Puget Sound (1)
University of California, Santa Barbara
La Sierra University (2)
Purdue University (2)
University of California, Santa Cruz (3)
Lafayette College
Randolph College
Carleton College
Lawrence University
University of Redlands (3)
Carnegie Mellon University
Lehigh University (2)
Reed College
Carroll College (Montana) (1)
Lewis & Clark College
Regis University
Case Western Reserve University
Linfield College
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2)
Champlain College
Loyola Marymount University (2)
University of Richmond
Chapman University (4)
Loyola University New Orleans (1)
Rochester Institute of Technology
Chestnut Hill College
Lynn University
University of Rochester
University of Chicago (1)
Macalester College (1)
Roger Williams University
Claremont McKenna College
Manhattan College (1)
Rollins College (1)
Clark University
Manhattanville College
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Clarkson University
College of Marin (2)
Saint Louis University
Colby-Sawyer College
Marist College
Saint Mary’s College of California (4)
Colgate University (1)
Marlboro College (1)
Salve Regina University (1)
University of Colorado at Boulder (3)
University of Maryland, College Park
San Diego State University
Colorado State University
Marymount Manhattan College
University of San Diego (3)
and Dramatic Academy
San Luis Obispo (3)
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The Johns Hopkins University
San Jose State University
Santa Clara University
Santa Rosa Junior College (1)
Savannah College of Art and Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (1)
School of Visual Arts
Scripps College (2)
Seattle University
Seton Hall University (College of Arts & Science)
Skidmore College (1)
Smith College
Sonoma State University
Southern Adventist University
University of Southern California School of Music
University of Southern California (5)
Southern Methodist University (1)
Spelman College
St. Francis Xavier University (1)
St. John’s College (1)
COLLEGE COUNSELING
College Counseling at San Domenico is based on the school’s core values
of Study, Reflection, Community and Service. It is a holistic process
that gives students the opportunity to closely examine their goals,
strengths, and passions while considering what they hope to gain from
their college experience, and the many available options for college
matriculation.
“We have purposefully designed San Domenico’s college counseling program
to balance the need for self-motivated action with the guidance of our
expert team to ensure that each student develops an individual plan and
stays on target through the application process,” says Director of College
Counseling, Brad Jackson. We empower our students with a clear and
sophisticated understanding of how his or her application will be read
and reviewed so that when the time comes to select and apply for
university, SD students are ready and excited about the experience
and opportunity.
St. John’s University (1)
St. Olaf College
Stanford University (2)
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stony Brook University
Suffolk University
Syracuse University (1)
The University of Texas, Arlington
The New School - Eugene Lang College
The Ohio State University
Junior / Senior Mini Course
Mini courses at SD are a series of 75-minute workshops in the Spring
that cover subjects such as Learning Style Testing, Contacting and Visiting
Colleges, Essays, and Building the College List. These are followed by meetings
in the Fall of senior year where students actually fill out and complete
their applications while refining essays and working to ensure all parts of
their application reflect their personal and unique story.
University of Toronto (1)
Tufts University
Union College
Universidad Iberoamericana (1)
University of the Arts London
Ursinus College
Vassar College (1)
University of Vermont
Virginia Tech
University of Virginia (1)
Wagner College
Wake Forest University
Essay Advising
In their junior year, students are assigned a humanities teacher with
whom they work on their college essays through their senior year.
Individual Meetings
The core of our college counseling program, individual meetings provide
junior and senior year students one-on-one time with our College Counselor
to shape and strengthen their personal college goals and application plan.
Washington College
Washington University in St. Louis
University of Washington (4)
Wellesley College
Wesleyan University
Westminster College
Westmont College (1)
Whitman College (1)
College Visits
Each year we host representatives on campus from over 60 colleges
and universities from across the nation. This is a unique opportunity for
students to meet, in a small group setting, with the admission officer who
is often the first to assess their application.
Whittier College
Willamette University (1)
College of William and Mary (1)
University of Wisconsin, Madison (1)
The College of Wooster
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Xavier University of Louisiana
The San Domenico College Counseling department also realizes that
students do not go through this process alone and works with parents
to give them the information and support they need to help their children.
From class parent meetings, to Parent Service Association coffees, or
hosting guest speakers, the San Domenico College Counseling team is
there to support the whole family through the college application process.
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 7
CURRICULUM-AT-A-GLANCE
ENGLISH
MATH
English 9*
English 10*
American Literature*
Literature and Composition
AP English Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
Algebra 1*
Geometry*
Algebra 2 or 2 Honors*
Pre-calculus or
Pre-calculus Honors
AP Calculus AB
(Four years required)
12th Grade English Electives
(choose 2 – e.g. Gothic Literature,
Study of Fiction, Silenced Voices)
HISTORY
(Three years required)
Global Studies*
Europe and the Modern World*
US History or AP US History*
Issues in American Democracy
International Relations
WORLD LANGUAGES
(Three consecutive years required)^
Mandarin 1
Spanish 1
Mandarin 2
Spanish 2
Mandarin 3
Spanish 3
Spanish 4
AP Spanish Language
CURRICULUM
(Three years required)
AP Calculus BC
AP Statistics
Multivariable Calculus
(offered at least every
other year)
SD offers a full block schedule with 85-minute periods, with subjects meeting every other day. This creates opportunity
for deeper exploration of class subjects, the use of varied learning modalities within each class, and an opportunity for
students to balance their academic and extracurricular schedules. For example, a student may use the in-between day to
meet with a teacher, or use the extra time to balance a heavy workload with a big game or special musical performance.
SCIENCE
(Three years laboratory sciences required)
Conceptual Physics*
Biology or AP Biology*
Chemistry or Chemistry Honors*
AP Chemistry
Environmental Science or
AP Environmental Science
AP Psychology
AP Physics
Engineering
Teacher Assistant
in the Sciences
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
ESL Language Arts 9
ESL Language Arts 10
ESL Literature and Composition
Writing Workshop for International Students
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS
(2 years required)
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
(Four years required)
Global Studies*
Hebrew and Christian Scriptures*
Social Justice*
Senior Electives*
Religion and the Arts
Introduction to Philosophy A
Introduction to Philosophy B
Ethics
Ethics and Theater
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
(Freshman Health, Four years Phys. Ed. Required)
Freshman Health*
PE Sports
PE Dance
PE Mini Course
PE Riding
PE Tennis
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Freshman Arts
(Choose 2: Art 1, Theater 1,
Dance 1, or Film 1)
Music Electives
San Domenico Singers
Piano Ensemble
Flute, Choir, or Classical Guitar
Ensemble Sinfonia
Chamber Orchestra
Vocal Ensemble
Advanced Conservatory Classes
VP Chamber Music
VP Orchestra da Camera
Conservatory
Private Lessons
AP Music Theory
Theater Electives
Theater Arts 2: Acting
Theater Arts 3: Acting
Theater Arts 4: Directing
Theater Arts 4: Technical Theater
Honors Theater
Performance Workshop
Dance Electives
Dance Performance 2
Dance Performance 3
Dance Performance 4
SD Dance Performance
Ensemble
Film
Visual Arts Electives
Ceramics 1
Ceramics 2
Ceramics 3
Ceramics 4
Drawing and Painting 1
Drawing and Painting 2
Drawing and Painting 3
Photography 1
Photography 2
AP Studio Art 2D
AP Studio Art 3D
Advanced Art/
Independent Study
* Courses Required for Graduation
^ Not Required for International Students
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM
At San Domenico we work with students to plan a course of study that provides an appropriate level of challenge, depth,
balance, and achievement. Students who enroll in an AP course must sit for the AP examination in May.
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 9
MINI COURSES AND CLUBS
EXPLORE
There are many topics that interest students that do not require yearlong classes. Mini courses are semester long
and meet every other week. The subjects are chosen to match student and teacher interests in areas that are not
otherwise represented. Topics vary from year to year. Mini courses may also extend into clubs. Clubs are extra
curricular groups anchored by interest in a common subject. Clubs provide yet another opportunity for connection, intellectual exploration, creativity, social impact, and fun. Mini courses and clubs vary from year to year and may include:
At San Domenico, it is not just our Dominican value of
inquiry that leads to stimulating conversation and new
experiences. There’s something about going to school on
515-acres that encourages a growth mindset and every
day, you’ll find opportunity to not just study, but to
reflect upon what you are learning and think about what
it means to you. Here you may find purpose in your days,
and dreams for your future. Key to this are our service
learning and religious studies programs.
Anime
Dialects
Archery
Disney Club
Ballet
Documentary Film Making
Black Student Association
Equestrian
Body Positive
Exploring Trails
Book Club
Film Noir
Calligraphy
Forensic Science
Campus Ministry
Gardening
Children in Need Club
Green Team
College Process
H.O.P.E.
Satire
Crafting
Math Tutoring Club
Social Justice Club
Model United Nations
Song Writing
Mountain Biking
Student Council
Multicultural Club
Tea Club
National Honor Society
Tennis
Peer Counseling
Verities
Photography Club
Volunteer Club
Poetica
Wog (Walk/Jog)
Quilting
Yearbook
Robotics
Yoga
“Yearbook is great - it is
the perfect mixture of
social and creative.”
- Claire Y.
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“The variety of
opportunities at SD
is awesome!” - Chad G.
Service Learning
SD students in Bosnia for an ongoing
Awareness of our global interconnection goes back over
service program founded by our faculty.
800 years to the early days of St. Dominic and service is
one of our four core values. With the privilege of a San
Domenico education comes the inspiration to give back.
Our Real Opportunities for Service in Education (R.O.S.E.) Program means every year you’ll see Seniors presenting their
service projects and discover what inspires you. At the Harkness Table in Social Justice class you’ll discuss current and
historical ideas of social justice and form the basis for your self-developed service learning project - a requirement for
graduation. Projects range from work in Africa to teaching dance or music in local communities of need. Many San
Domenico R.O.S.E. projects are still serving communities around the world today.
Religious Studies
Religious Studies at San Domenico examine a wide breadth of world religions, respecting all traditions and encouraging
students to explore what spirituality and the sacred mean to them. At SD, religions are studied through the lens of history
and current world affairs. Courses are college-preparatory
and are accepted as such by the University of California,
fulfilling the general elective requirement.
Celebrating the Holi Festival a traditional Hindu Spring Festival.
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 11
ATHLETICS
“At San Domenico we believe the athletic ‘playing field’ is an extension of the classroom, where many of
life’s important skills are learned and nurtured.” - Dan Gilmartin, Director of Athletics
Inclusion Every student athlete plays at San Domenico. Our coaches believe
that all students should be given the opportunity to utilize athletics as a tool
to explore, grow and reflect. Athletics at SD celebrate the unique gifts of every
student. Our outstanding coaching staff guides and supports each athlete at
every level. Over 75% of SD students participate in extra-curricular athletics.
Sportsmanship Our coaches believe that athletics should be a positive,
character-building experience that supports our Dominican Core Values. San
Domenico coaches are committed to the Double-Goal Philosophy which states
that “winning is important, but teaching life lessons through athletics is most
important.” Our student-athletes are thus supported in meeting their athletic
commitments and the challenges of a rigorous academic curriculum with balance,
foresight, and dedication to holistic success.
Achievement At San Domenico our coaches emphasize effort, resilience,
persistence, and continuous growth. San Domenico has consistently been named
the Bay Area Conference’s top school for sportsmanship and is a recognized
member of the Positive Coaching Alliance, a national non-profit organization
dedicated to transforming the culture of youth sports into a positive, characterbuilding experience.
Opportunity San Domenico provides athletes the opportunity to compete in
elite Bay Area Leagues and Clubs. We are a member of the Bay Area
Conference (BAC) and the Bay Counties League (BCL) in the Central Division.
With 13 sports offered, students have a wealth of athletic opportunities to
choose from.
Equestrian Program
SD’s riding school is run by world renowned Patrick Seaton Stables.
On
campus boarding includes top-notch horse care, a large jumping
area, two
smaller covered arenas, and
up to 15 horses. We are a member of the
Interscholastic Equestrian Association and have won several Zone 10
competition finals. Students do not need to own their own horse. SD regularly
hosts IEA events, providing horses to competitors.
Our coaches believe that athletics should be
a positive, character-building experience .
Basketball
Volleyball
Soccer
Swimming
13
Tennis
Track
Golf
Badminton
Cross Country
Baseball
Mountain Biking*
Sailing*
World Class Facilities
Surrounded by the beautiful rolling hills of Marin County and our 515-acre
campus, SD athletes practice and compete at our on-campus Athletic Center,
Swimming Center, Tennis Courts, internationally renowned mountain biking
trails, and Equestrian Center.
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Equestrian*
•Denotes Club Team
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 13
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BOARDING PROGRAM
At San Domenico, residential life means calling 515 beautiful acres home, surrounded by friends from all over the world, and
looked after by specially trained Residential Faculty, a.k.a. Dorm Parents. Boarding creates closer bonds with friends, and
more focused discipline for music, sports, student council, and theatre. SD provides a nurturing environment and safety
guidelines that ensure our students are carefully supervised while also feeling a strong sense of community and comfort.
Our favorite compliment is hearing that our dorms feel like a second home.
Residential Life at SD
Student-Faculty relationships are another special part of the boarding experience at SD. Here, your History teacher might
drive you to a college interview, or your English teacher’s seven year-old-daughter may come by to see you in your musical
performance. Graduation is usually a bittersweet time for all San Domenico students, but for those in the boarding
program it is especially poignant. Your years here will give you a strong base for college, deep friendships, adventures with
your peers, strong relationships with caring adults, and an education in the human spirit.
Friday night dinners out on the town, or spa nights at “home.”
Lounges facilitate friendly gatherings with their overstuffed couches, rocking chairs, working fireplaces, satellite TV
connections, and DVD players.
The spacious dorm kitchens have full size shared refrigerators, a microwave, toaster oven, water cooler, and instant hot water.
Locally grown organic food prepared daily, or students have access to a fully outfitted kitchen any time they wish to concoct
elaborate culinary delights.
Dorms are equipped with computer labs, wireless internet access, laser printers, fax. Washer and dryer in each dorm.
A mid-morning homemade soup break is a daily ritual appreciated by all.
Flex Boarding
Inspired by a popular British tradition, SD also offers a part-time residential life program we call “Flex Boarding” wherein
students spend Monday through Friday with us, their on-campus family, and then return home for weekends. Students
from areas such as the South Bay, San Francisco, Napa, Sonoma, and the East Bay often opt for this type of schedule.
Weekend trips to amazing destinations like kayaking in Sausalito, going to beach trips in Catalina, or visiting museums in
San Francisco.
What Students Love About Boarding at SD
“I chose SD because I knew I would not only be
“I like the diversity of where
in a supportive environment, in which I would
students in this school
grow academically but I would grow as a person
come from, so that I can
in order to find my passion. My favorite activities
learn about different kinds
at San Domenico are the clubs, specifically Social
of cultures and customs.
Justice, Body Positive, and Multi-Cultural Club.
And also the Oscar Night
These clubs have taught me the importance of
Party!” – Dorothy, ‘16
giving back to the community and beyond and
becoming a great leader.” - Camille Ayanruoh, ‘15
“The variety and
quality of food is
amazing.’”
– Daria, ‘15
“I love San Domenico for many reasons,
from the academics to the 515-acre
campus, and the many activities and clubs.
It makes me happy to watch the sun come
up over the hills every morning and I have
“Community Nights! Like
‘smores around the campfire.”
– Cameron, ‘15
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joined many sports, like horseback riding,
swimming, and tennis. So I am happy to
share and/or answer questions.” – Deborah, ‘17
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 15
VISUAL, DIGITAL, AND PERFORMING ARTS
TECHNOLOGY
Throughout history, art has been a vital means to celebrating and building community, both of which are core Dominican
values. You’ll therefore find that visual, digital, and performing arts are an integral part of our school culture and curriculum.
At SD, technology enhances student
learning, cultivates digital citizenship,
and fosters digital literacy across the
curriculum.
We are proud to have one of the most active and innovative theatre programs in the Bay Area.
With two plays each year, a
musical, and senior one-act plays,
San Domenico’s theatre department is highly regarded and one of only fifty schools that
is invited each year to the
Fringe
Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland.
With this range of
opportunities and the small class size,
every SD student who has a desire to grow as a thespian and performing artist will have ample opportunity to do so.
Digital arts at San Domenico give students the chance to get creative and explore filmmaking, song writing, composing,
graphic design, and more.
Dance at San Domenico explores a wide range of techniques from ballet to modern, hip-hop, flamenco etc. Integrated as
curriculum or as after school activity, from choreography to performance, opportunities to improve your pirouettes, flex
your toes, ground your beats, or find your flow abound at SD.
Our newly renovated Visual Arts building is situated along the creek that runs through our campus. Looking out the window,
nature comes to life and with the myriad of natural critters, students, and events going on every day here at SD, there’s no
shortage of opportunity to explore photography, drawing, painting, ceramics, and graphic design.
At SD we are committed to a growth mindset, and our campus and state of the art facilities open doors both literal
and figurative.
MUSIC CONSERVATORY
The San Domenico Music Conservatory is home to over 25 professional
music faculty. Offering private and group instruction in winds, strings,
piano, percussion, and voice, programs are taught in a broad spectrum
of styles and a variety of ensembles, from chamber orchestra to rock
band, and from chorus to winds ensemble.
SD Music students come from around the San Francisco Bay Area and the
globe to create a dynamic international community. Study and practice
opportunities in our state-of-the-art conservatory with expertly maintained instruments allow for supervised musical advancement from
8:00 am until 10:00 pm. Students perform regularly in our acoustically
engineered, 300-seat Hall of the Arts.
The Piano Honors Program is a specialized goal-oriented program
for students
who are committed to a higher degree of practice
and
performance expectations, and are prepared to undertake the Certificate
of Merit exam. Students in
the honors program are tested regularly on
performance, technique, sight-reading, ear training, and written theory,
and perform a number of recitals each year along with an annual jury.
The San Domenico Virtuoso Program offers a world-renowned specialized track for advanced classical string studies in high school. Focusing on
orchestral and chamber music repertoire, the program offers merit
scholarships to high school students with the discipline and talent
to pursue music at a pre-professional level in an academically challenging environment.
SD Virtuoso students matriculate to colleges such as Julliard School,
USC, Stanford, and New York University.
Working closely with Apple, SD was
the first Marin County school to
implement a 1:1 iPad program. We
continue to lead the way in a fully
integrated technology program,
attracting visitors and students from
around the globe, curious to see how
teachers, students, faculty, and parents best leverage “tech” in education.
With purposeful learning a core
Dominican value, our community of
parents has found it a relief to have
a team of thoughtful educators with
whom to collaborate in teaching our
children how to use technology safely,
wisely, and for the greatest good.
“As a new San Domenico community
member, I was extremely grateful for
the amount of support we got from
the faculty. From the iPad Parent
Night to the availability of the tech
department for one-on-one follow
up, it was very reassuring to have a
hand to hold as we learned how to
guide and support our kids into the
world of digital citizenry.
– Frank F., dad to Corbin ‘20
For more information about our music program contact
[email protected] or call 415.258.1921.
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SUSTAINABILITY
San Domenico is a recipient of the prestigious U.S. Department of
Education Green Ribbon Award for excellence in
sustainability practices. As the first Marin school to be nominated, San Domenico is one of only
three schools in California
to be recognized this year and the only Northern California school to receive this honor.
This important recognition for SD is the culmination of nearly 20 years of passion, persistence, and teamwork across our
entire school to make sustainable practices an everyday reality on our campus. Our vision and mission to develop an overall
sustainability program for the school began in 1994.
Today, San Domenico is home to a one-acre working organic garden and the largest solar installation in a Marin County
school. Our ecoliteracy program is integrated in Pre-K through 12 curriculum with environmental education, engagement,
and stewardship at the core of who we are and what we do. SD’s 515-acres and faculty counsel provide students the time
and space to work and learn outdoors, allowing for a natural development of reverence, respect, and care for the land. Here
students learn to think critically, analytically, systematically, and contextually using real life, hands-on, integrated projects
to solve real world problems. Ecoliteracy at San Domenico means our students develop a sense of their place on the land,
in our community, and in the world at large.
SD’s ecoliteracy methodology teaches students about natural systems and our connection to them from a social, spiritual,
cultural, and health perspective.
Our one-acre Garden of Hope is not only a sacred place and learning center for San Domenico students and faculty. It has
become a model for the greater community.
The solar installation at San Domenico consists of 2,358 photovoltaic panels, spread across several roof and ground-mounted
arrays, covering almost one full football field in total. We thus offset 85% of our electricity costs, reducing carbon emissions
by 860,000 pounds annually – the equivalent to removing 70 vehicles from the road, or preserving 3-acres of forest from
deforestation each year.
Conservation at SD means we conserve water usage on campus with low flow toilets and showerheads, retrofitting
irrigation, and capturing spring water in
tanks to irrigate. To reduce energy use, we have also made extensive retrofits such
as installing efficient lighting
and boiler systems, and a solar heater for the pool.
Locally grown, healthy food makes eating at SD a celebration of abundance and gratitude. Our proximity to a myriad of
farmers, growers, and producers gives our chefs a bounty from which to prepare delicious meals for our students and staff.
At SD, we minimize landfill waste by encouraging reuse, recycling, and purchasing products made with recycled content,
as well as minimizing disposables on campus.
A robust composting program includes food scraps, green waste, and horse
manure from our on-campus stables.
BUS AND TRANSPORTATION
As part of San Domenico’s commitment to sustainability we provide one of the
most extensive school bus route systems in the Bay Area, including San Francisco,
the East Bay, and Marin County. Riding the bus is a benefit available to all students
at all grade levels and is included in the yearly tuition.
Bus System
From the
East Bay
SD has been named an Emerald Green School by the National Center for Safe Routes
to School for our sustainable practices in transportation, which help to reduce our
carbon footprint.
We have created over 14 Bus Routes and 79 stops throughout Marin County, San
Francisco, and the East Bay. SD students come to adore their bus drivers!
18 | SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017
From San
Francisco
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 19
INTERNATIONAL ADMISSIONS
To apply to San Domenico, please use this checklist.
Note for Applicants from China: Due to the large number of applicants from China,
we require all candidates to conduct a pre-interview with our affiliate in China, Vericant. For
more information visit www.vericant.com/contactus.
Complete our San Domenico online application for 2016-17
Transcript Release
Download the Transcript Release forms from our website, include parent or guardian
signature before submitting to your school registrar. Transcripts must be written or translated
into English and stamped with the school’s seal and sent directly to San Domenico via email
or hard copy. Please do not send the Transcript Release form to our office.
UNITED STATES ADMISSIONS
To apply to San Domenico, please use this checklist.
Application Form and Fee
You will find the online application through at www.sandomenico.org under Admissions–
Upper School–United States Applications. Once you have created an online admission application account, you can log in and out to complete the application at your
own pace. This step requires a credit card payment of the $100 application fee. The
application includes the following components:
- Applicant and Family Information
- Parent Statement
- High School Questionnaire
- Personal Statement Essay
- Optional Photo Upload
Principal, Head of School, or Counselor Recommendation
Download and print the recommendation forms and provide to your principal, head of school,
or counselor to return to San Domenico via email or hard copy.
Math and English Teacher Recommendation
Download and print the recommendation form and provide to your math and English teachers
to return to San Domenico via email or hard copy.
Transcript Release
Download from our website, then provide signature of parent or guardian before giving it
to your current school registrar / secretary to mail your transcript directly to San Domenico
School.
Campus Visit
Please call the Admissions Office early in the fall to schedule a visit to our campus. We recommend that all international students visit San Domenico School, if possible.
Please note: Due to the large number of inquiries, and our processing of applications, our ability
to accommodate campus visits during the month of February is extremely limited.
Principal, Head of School, or Counselor Recommendation
Download and print the recommendation form and provide to your principal, head of school,
or counselor to return to San Domenico via email or hard copy.
Interview
If you are unable to visit our campus for an in-person tour and interview, we will arrange for a
SKYPE interview. Candidates from China must interview with Vericant (see above).
Math and English Teacher Recommendation
Download and print the recommendation form and provide to your math and English teachers along with an addressed return envelope to send directly to San Domenico School.
Testing
All international students must submit official TOEFL scores. Our school code is 0897.
All applicants for grades 9 and 10 must complete the SSAT (our code is 7084).
All applicants for grade 11 must complete the PSAT or SAT (our code is 053205).
ESL Program Placement
This is based on your application, interview, and TOEFL score. You may also be asked to take
the English Language Placement Test, which is administered at San Domenico on the first
week of school. If you are assigned to an ESL program there will be an additional fee.
I-20 Form
San Domenico will issue an I-20 to a student once they have been accepted and their parents
have returned the signed enrollment contract with the tuition deposit.
Student Visit
Parent tours and student visits are on the same day. A list of dates may be found on our website. To plan your parent and student visit, go to www.sandomenico.org/inquire. Once you
submit your Inquiry form you will receive an email with further instructions. Students will
have the opportunity to sit in on classes, take a tour of campus, and participate in student
activities.
Interview
If you are unable to visit our campus for an in-person tour and interview, we will arrange for
a SKYPE interview.
Bank Statement
Testing
A bank statement is required to prove sufficient funding for the boarding program.
Guardianship
All international students are required to have a designated guardian residing within the
state of California. A form for local guardianship will be sent along with the enrollment contract after a student has been accepted; you may also download it from our website. Parents
are responsible for finding their child’s guardian.
20 | SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017
Scores from one of these tests below are required (Forms are available on our website):
• SSAT (our code is 7084)
• ISEE (our code is 054074)
SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 21
TOURS, VISITS, AND OPEN HOUSES
San Domenico campus visits will run from October 1 to January 7. Student Visit Days run from approximately 7:50 to 2:00.
During the student’s visit, he or she will attend classes with a student ambassador, enjoy meeting teachers, and have
lunch with their ambassador as well as other SD students. The day may also include a tour of our 515-acre campus. The
San Domenico Parent Tour (approximately 8:00 to 10:30 or 8:30 – 11:00 depending on visit date) includes a campus tour,
classroom visits, and an information session with our Director of Admissions and school administrators.
Getting to know each other is an important part of the admissions process and applicants are required to interview
with a member of our admissions committee. We understand students may feel nervous about their interview and we
do as much as possible to reduce anxiety involved in the process. In keeping with our philosophy of study and reflection,
interviews will be scheduled after the student’s visit day. For out of town students, or upon special request, we will try to
accommodate interviews on the same days as student visits.
FINANCIAL AID
Information for families
Inclusivity is a hallmark of the Dominican tradition and an essential value of San Domenico’s educational philosophy and
school culture. Economic diversity is critical to creating a well-rounded experience for our students and we are committed
to making an SD education accessible to students from a wide range of backgrounds. Financial aid is available on an as
needed basis and no family should hesitate to apply for admission due to financial reasons.
To be eligible for consideration for financial aid, you must complete your application by January 14, 2016. If you did not
indicate on your application, or you are a re-enrolling family new to applying for financial aid, please inform the admissions
office that you intend to apply by emailing [email protected] or calling 415.258.1905. Tuition assistance fee
waivers will be granted by SSS to qualifying families during the application process.
Attention re-enrolling families
To be eligible for consideration for financial aid, you must complete an online application each year. Please complete your
application by January 14, 2016.
San Domenico uses School and Student Services (SSS) to process financial aid applications. SSS is a service of the
National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). Based on the financial information you provide in the Parent Financial
Statement (PFS), SSS provides an estimated amount your family can contribute to educational expenses. This estimate is a
starting point and helps the School make fair and objective financial aid decisions. To begin your financial aid application
for the 2016-17 enrollment year, follow these steps:
Tour Dates and Student Visit
Wednesday, September 30
Thursday, October 1
Wednesday, October 7
Thursday, October 8
Wednesday, October 14
Thursday, October 15
Wednesday, October 21
Thursday, October 22
Wednesday, October 28
Thursday, October 29
Thursday, November 12
Friday, November 13
Thursday, November 19
Wednesday, December 2
Thursday, December 3
Wednesday, December 9
Thursday, December 10
Wednesday, January 6
Thursday, January 7
Wednesday, January 13
Thursday, January 14
Thursday, January 28
Open House Dates
High School - October 31 and December 12, 10:00 am
Lower / Middle School - January 9, 10:00 am
To register for a campus visit, tour, or Open House, and to see current date availability,
visit www.sandomenico.org/inquire. After submitting an Inquiry form you will receive an email with further instructions.
Apply Online
1 Go to sss.nais.org. Our school code is 7084.
2 Select the SSS website for FAMILIES.
3 Click on the ‘apply now’ button to begin your Parents’ Financial Statement (PFS) online. You will set up a PFS Online login/password that will allow you to return to work on your PFS before submitting it. Your information will be secure.
4 Upload electronically into your PFS: tax returns and W-2s. Forms are due by February 25, 2016.
5 Submit your application and complete payment for the PFS. After you apply online, your information will be delivered
accurately and securely to the financial aid committee at San Domenico School.
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SAN DOMENICO 2016-2017 | 23
San Domenico School
An Exceptional Education and a Sense of Purpose.
College preparatory • K-12 • Marin County, CA
www.sandomenico.org | 415.258.1900