About

The Branson School (Branson)

Branson is a coeducational, college-preparatory high school of 420 students, grades 9-12, nestled beneath Mt. Tamalpais in Marin County, California. What started as a small community school over a century ago has grown into one of the nation’s premier independent high schools. Our mission is to develop students who make a positive impact in the world by leading lives of integrity, purpose, learning, and joy.

The school is an ever-evolving, inclusive educational community that challenges and supports students as they grow into confident, thoughtful, ethical people. We encourage students to be brave in whatever they do – in the classroom, on the field, on stage, in the community, even with their peers. 

At the heart of Branson is the trusting, dynamic relationship between dedicated teachers and students. Branson faculty and staff value collaboration, continual growth and improvement, reflection, and student-centered teaching.

Branson also believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to create a truly excellent learning environment and a vibrant, caring community. We aspire to have every member of the Branson community feel a deep sense of belonging and inclusion. 

Why Summer Session?

The Branson Summer Session was created to extend that same spirit of discovery beyond the traditional academic year. We believe that summer is the perfect time for students to take risks, explore new passions, and dive deep into subjects they love—without the pressure of grades or heavy workloads. Whether you're a middle schooler getting your first taste of high school level STEM or an adult picking up a new creative hobby, our Summer Session is designed to be an "incubator of ideas." We open our doors to the wider community so that everyone can experience the magic of the Branson campus, our expert faculty, and a curriculum built on collaboration and curiosity.

As extensions of its summer programming, Summer Session now also offers short-term programs during school breaks and at other times during the school year. Please see our School-Year Offerings page for more.

Open to All

While Branson's year-round high school is known for its competitive admissions process, our Summer Session welcomes middle school students and high schoolers from all over the Bay Area. New this year, we are also pleased to welcome lifelong learners from the adult community.