
High Bluff Academy
Where Academics and Individuality Thrive
High Bluff Academy (HBA) provides a holistic, student-centered approach that balances rigorous academics with the flexibility and support needed to excel and gain admission to top-tier colleges.


AP ®
Capstone School
10
Average class size
8
Years Voted #1 Private School 2016-2024
Quality Education, Individualized Learning
High School Programs
Complete high school education at our campus in San Diego or online, tailored to fit each student’s pace and needs.
Online Classes
Flexible online classes designed to complement students’ existing school programs.
F-1 Visa Program for International Students
ESL Program for those with intermediate level English and AP courses to ensure students are ready for top-tier universities.
Summer School
Join our group classes on campus or participate online and learn from anywhere with ease.
Choose The Learning Option That Best Fits Your Needs

In-Person
Safe and welcoming environment with small class sizes and amazing teachers. HBA provides courses tailored to your student’s academic level and supports them through rigorous AP courses.

Hybrid
Attend some classes in person with the ability to add additional classes online. Students can complete their work during the school day with teacher supervision and support.

Virtual
Online courses to fit your student’s needs: live one-on-one classes or self-paced modules. Tutoring sessions available on demand.
Announcement
High Bluff Academy (HBA) provides a holistic, student-centered approach that balances rigorous academics with the flexibility and support needed to excel and gain admission to top-tier colleges.
Helping Students Become Independent Learners
At High Bluff Academy, we aim to nurture lifelong, independent learners equipped to face life’s challenges with confidence. By fostering self-reliance, we prepare students not just for college—but for life.


We Empower Students to Thrive

Expert Educators
Our experienced teachers provide personalized instruction to help students excel.

Flexible Support:
We offer flexible, online learning with full academic support, ensuring students reach their goals.
Read our Rave Reviews!
EXCELLENT Based on 80 reviews John Tishler2022-02-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My son had a fantastic experience with High Bluff Academy. He took AP US History in the summer of 2021, between his freshman and sophomore years. In addition to his glowing review of Mr. Stevens, pasted below, I'm happy to report that the staff of HBA was extremely helpful and accommodating to all of our requests. "Mr. Stevens' class was a joy to be part of. He taught me so much about US history and it was evident that he truly cared about the students and about what he taught. He was always enthusiastic and would always listen to students' questions. He's very funny and made the class an amazing one." Tricia Tigli2022-01-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It is my pleasure to write a review about High Bluff Academy. I joined this unique school in the summer of 2021. I taught French for 8 weeks, I was then asked to become part of the team in September of 2021, I happily accepted. I continue to teach French. I also teach English Support to my Chinese students.I am very proud to part of a team of superb teachers who are dedicated to their craft as well as their students. We are fortunate to have at the helm, a very hands-on director and staff, who make it seem seamless! Jill Duoto and her team run a very smooth and well organized school. Having taught at public schools in San Diego for over 15 years, I am well aware of the many needs of diverse populations, as well as, the needs of students who might prefer a small, highly attentive academic environment. The difference is that here we can do it on a small scale which facilitates a very personal touch, from the administration to the teachers. Charlotte2021-09-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Taking classes here will surprise you. If you want your children and teachers to have an active interaction during class time, and improve their enthusiasm and self-confidence in learning, I highly recommend you to come here to go to school. Sophia made a qualitative leap in class here. Every AP course is full score. There is great satisfaction in spirit and other aspects. The principal and everyone working there will make you very happy and comfortable. Thanks again to the principal and teachers for their dedication and hard work. I hope you don’t miss a good opportunity, and I wish you luck. Alex Y.2020-05-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best. Quality teachers, individualized or small classes, many options worth exploring, unmatched flexibility. Great leadership. My son took many classes there over the years and being at High Bluff Academy was key to his admission to a highly selective college. elpescador fishmarket2020-05-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome stuff and service Hilda Leisorek2020-04-13Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jill is really very good, she gave us a very good service and she take care of my son. We were very happy with Brian, he is a very good teacher. We recommend HBA its a very profesional academy. Wayne Harris2020-03-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We sent our daughter to High Bluff Academy for her senior year of high school. We have been very impressed with the personal attention given to our daughter in each of her courses by her instructors. The school helped our daughter put together a curriculum and schedule that fit her needs and also showed flexibility in her schedule when it was necessary. In my opinion, High Bluff Academy is a place to put kids on track and keep them on track by holding them accountable in small classrooms and by providing them support both during and outside of class. The owner of the school and the administration have shown an authentic commitment to the success of our daughter throughout the school year, and for that we are grateful.
Parent / Guardian
I can’t say enough about this little school. My son loves it! The class sizes are so small, the students develop great bonds with one another and the teachers. The students are international, studious, kind and caring. The teachers are just amazing–they have graduate degrees and a huge love of their subject matters and their students. My son feels completely supported by this school and looks forward to every class.
Parent / Guardian
My daughter’s experience at High Bluff Academy has been amazing. The teachers are fantastic and offer a level of support that is rare to find. The teachers truly want the students to succeed and make learning interesting and fun, not stressful and overwhelming. All students are supported and nurtured to be the best that they can be. We are truly grateful to the entire staff for providing a true gift to students.
Parent / Guardian
My son was really struggling at the large public school in our neighborhood. He is very bright but was not able to focus due to the large class size. He had a lot of anxiety about going to school and was not connecting with any of his teachers. He transferred to High Bluff Academy in the beginning of 11th grade and it was the best decision we ever made. He loved all of his teachers and was inspired to work hard and get good grades. The caring, family type atmosphere was very welcoming. I never would have dreamed that his life would turn around so dramatically just by changing schools. His success and self-confidence today would not have been possible without High Bluff Academy.

We are lucky to have such a gem in our neighborhood. The teachers are absolutely amazing, and the relationship and bond my son had with them motivated him to work hard, thrive, and excel

Jodi Z.


Core Strengths That Defines Our School

Empowering Environment
A nurturing school community for students rebuilding confidence and discovering their strengths. Our supportive approach fosters personal growth, helping every student thrive academically and socially. Together, we create a foundation for lifelong success and self-belief.

Data-Driven Instruction
We use cutting-edge software to analyze cognitive strengths and deficits to personalize instructional methodology. Our math classes use vectored learning, which enables students to master foundational skills they are missing that are prerequisites to success in their current course of study.

Fostering Global Understanding
Our international student body creates an environment where students can connect, share, and learn from one another, whether here in Rancho Santa Fe or working online with girls in Afghanistan.

Flexible Scheduling
Student-athletes can arrange to start late or leave early to accommodate their coaching schedules. They choose to take some of our classes in a group and additional courses online during supervised tutorial periods or at home.
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