Exceptional Acceptances

On April 10, Thacher closed another record-breaking admission season. The numbers give us much to be proud of: a 30 percent increase in applications; a record-low 13 percent acceptance rate; and an 82 percent yield that continues to rank at the top for any boarding school or college in the country. (Harvard recently announced a yield of over 80 percent for the first time since 1971). But more important than all the facts and figures are the 68 incredible students who will join the classes of 2015 and 2016. In this group there are artists and athletes, concert violinists and political activists, robotics enthusiasts and baseball statisticians, horse whisperers and riding novices alike. Next year our student body, 36 percent of whom identify as students of color, will come from 25 states and 11 countries, extending the rich tapestry that makes up the Thacher community. While these new students are impressive for their diverse interests and backgrounds, what is most remarkable is the singular way the mission and vision of our School resonates with them and their families.

Applying to Thacher is no small endeavor—it involves a trip to Ojai from various corners of the globe, essay writing, test taking, soul searching, humility, and patience. Admission Director Bill McMahon summed up the season by saying, "The willing enthusiasm each applicant showed throughout the admission process is testament to how the unique magic of The Thacher School—a place where academic rigor and a nurturing community coexist in a way like no other—has come to life for a new generation of Toads. We are thrilled to welcome these new students in September."