School Life
The Carlthorp Experience
At Carlthorp School, our rich traditions do more than build school spirit — they cultivate character, confidence, and lifelong connections.
Every morning begins at Flag Line, our cherished daily assembly on the sport court. Parents, faculty, and students gather as a school community to celebrate peer birthdays, hear announcements, recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and share a student-led Thought of the Day.
Flag Line is the heart of the Carlthorp experience:
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Fostering Confidence: Public speaking starts early as students present the Code of Conduct and share morning reflections in a supportive environment.
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Building Character: Daily routines instill respect, gratitude, and community engagement.
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Welcoming Families: With an open morning campus, parents are active partners in their child’s educational journey from day one.
Our daily Flag Line is just the beginning. Other traditions include:
- The charming Popcorn Parade and Teddy Bear Picnic in kindergarten
- The popular Carlthorp Reader Medal literacy challenge
- International Day, STEM Day, and Celebrate the Arts Day
- Cultural events such as our annual Black History Month and Lunar New Year celebrations
- The powerful kindergarten-6th grade buddy program
- An always-anticipated Halloween costume parade
- And so many more!
At Carlthorp, we don't just teach — we build a warm, connected community where every child belongs.
Established in 1939, Carlthorp School is the oldest independent coeducational day school for grades K-6 located in Santa Monica, California.