Anchor at Saint Joseph Notre Dame in Alameda, CA
Classical Catholic California Curriculum
Hopeful Learning
The Anchor pathway offers an integrated humanities honors curriculum rooted in the classical, Catholic tradition, placing the search for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful at the heart of education.
Integrated
All academic disciplines are united by a shared pursuit: discovering what is most essential to the flourishing of human communities. History, Art, Literature, and Theology offer complementary perspectives on this common goal.
Rooted
What does it mean to be a Californian? How does our inherited history and sense of place shape both identity and future? The Anchor program explores California’s history, art, and culture to help students develop deep roots and a strong sense of place.
Cultivated
Students are formed through the careful study of enduring ideas, ordered toward wisdom rather than mere utility. Our curriculum cultivates intellectual curiosity and thoughtful expression in both writing and conversation.
Connected
The Anchor pathway is part of a vibrant, full high school community. Students share in the life of the whole school — from athletics and student clubs to performing arts, service projects, and campus traditions — while pursuing their studies in a small, close-knit academic cohort.
Dedicated
Classical education is not an end in itself, but preparation for a life of generosity, leadership, and integrity. The Anchor pathway encourages students to see their learning as a gift to be shared in the service of their communities and the world.
Anchor Pathway Description
The Anchor Pathway will be a selective four year humanities course at SJND starting in Fall 2026. Students in the program will take small, seminar courses integrating all humanities subjects. They will remain in the same small cohort through all four years enabling theme to build a strong sense of academic community and the development of highly refined critical thinking skills. Students will enroll in Saint Joseph Notre Dame's other courses for science, math, and elective classes including many AP offerings. The Anchor program will also provide summer reading camps and evening speaker series open to students enrolled in other schools or homeschooling.
Summer Camp: How to Read a book
In a world of AI and digital distractions, rediscover the timeless power of thoughtful reading.When information is endless but wisdom is rare, learning to read deeply and well is more important than ever. This summer camp invites students to explore what it means to read with attention and care, to engage with great books and ideas, and to develop habits of mind that foster true understanding.Inspired by Mortimer Adler and Charles Van Doren’s How to Read a Book, students will learn practical strategies for approaching challenging texts, asking good questions, and thinking critically about what they read. Designed for advanced middle schoolers and early high school students, this camp is ideal for curious readers ready to grow.What Students Will ExperienceA taste of the classical, Catholic education offered in the Anchor Pathway at SJNDStrategies for engaging deeply with meaningful textsThoughtful conversations about enduring ideasCritical thinking skills that transfer to all subjectsDinner and meaningful community with like-minded peersFor those considering the Anchor Pathway, this camp offers a welcoming introduction to its spirit of inquiry and formation. We warmly encourage interested families to join us.Mon-Thursday 6:30-9:00$240 including dinner and reading materialsTwo one week sessions:
Session 1: July 7-10
Session 2: July 14-17
