Our Story

Founded in 1973 by educators Michael and Leah Cole, Diegueño Country School was built on a dream to create a school where children’s individual academic needs would be met while they developed a true love for learning. Based on their own teaching and administrative experiences, The Coles adopted their own integrated, experiential approach to education in which the child’s individual potential and talents would be optimized.

Following the principles that have been their driving force, the Coles have created a natural and comfortable learning environment, a “home-away-from-home.”  Their purpose has always been to offer a comprehensive educational program that emphasizes advanced academic study through individualized instruction. In addition, their goal has been to teach and reward kindness and sensitivity through activities designed to enhance emotional and social maturation. In order to balance rigorous academic study, the school has integrated interactive lessons that include performing arts and musical and artistic exploration.

From this early vision evolved the present peaceful, lush, and welcoming Diegueño campus. The programs that were developed in the early years of the school remain at the core of the Diegueño curriculum today. Diegueño Country School students, with their diverse talents and leadership skills, have gone on to become successful and confident adults.