Academics

The goal of every powerful educational institution is to tap into students' passion for learning, and we are constantly looking for ways to do that.
Woodside Priory’s academic program, anchored by our Benedictine values, engages our students rigorously and intentionally. As a community housing a middle and upper school, our faculty are experts in adeptly mentoring our students at different points during their learning, promoting a rigorous and robust curriculum to engage our students in meaningful intellectual discourse and critical thinking, while seeking to maintain a balanced life.

Our Learning Competencies guide Priory’s approach to learning, fondly known as ‘LCs’ to students and faculty alike. Learning Competencies refer to the essential competencies of critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity, and resilience, facilitating dynamic and intentional learning. We believe that our Learning Competencies are transferable and timeless skills that prepare our students for active citizenship. In an ever-changing world, we have confidence that our Learning Competencies will develop our students to embrace a growth mindset, appreciate lifelong learning, and become productive stewards for their gifts. 

List of 5 members.

  • Photo of Caitha Ambler

    Caitha Ambler 

    Head of Middle School
    (650) 851-6156
    University of California at Davis - BA
    Chapman University - Multiple subject teaching credential
    Argosy University - MA
  • Photo of Justin Christensen

    Justin Christensen 

    Dean of Academics
    (650) 851-6105
  • Photo of Ana Cortez-Hernández

    Ana Cortez-Hernández 

    (650) 851-6150
    Occidental College - BA
    Mills College - MA
    Mills College - Administrative Credential
    Mills College - Single Subject Credential in English
  • Photo of Kate Johansen

    Kate Johansen 

    Dean of Residential Life
    (650) 851-6192
    University of Puget Sound - BA
    Andover Newton Theological School - MA
    Seattle University
  • Photo of Chase Smith

    Chase Smith 

    Dean of Students
    (650) 851-6162
    Barry University - Juris Doctor
    Wingate University - BS

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