Advisory Program at Pacific Ridge School

At Pacific Ridge School, an independent, non-profit school in Bressi Ranch, programs and curriculum are designed to foster personal and academic excellence through challenge and care. Students are encouraged to take risks, explore new interests, and develop essential critical thinking and communication skills. Central to this academic experience is the school’s intentional focus on personal attention and connection, which cultivates belonging, academic growth, and student wellness.

While grade-level orientations, middle and upper school social events, yearly Global Travel excursions, and diverse enrichment activities provide significant moments for connection, one of the key components of student life is the Advisory program.

The program pairs students with faculty advisors and small peer groups, providing dedicated time for personal growth, skill building, and meaningful relationships. “Advisory really does bring you closer to your peers,” says sophomore Dasha Storrs. “Bonding with classmates, helps strengthen friendships that can last all of high school and even beyond. We get the opportunity to have fun throughout the year and still be in a classroom setting.

Advisory also gives students a space to talk to a trusted adult for homework help or advice.” She adds, “The Advisory program has taught me useful skills such as time management and organization throughout my 10th grade year. I know I always have a place to turn when I need help and that my advisor will do all she can to help me. Overall, advisory is a support system on the PRS campus for all students,” shares Storrs. Ghiya Ali, 10th grade dean, health teacher, and the coordinator for affinity and alliance student groups at Pacific Ridge, shares the importance of the Advisory program on campus and the impact she has seen.

“In Advisory, our teachers create time and space for students to reflect, build habits, and develop skills that help them overcome present and future challenges, preparing them for fruitful inner and outer lives,” says Ali. Built on the pillars of growth, reflection, and belonging, the program includes discussions, team-building activities, games, and structured reflection. These sessions allow students to build community, develop life skills, and consider how relevant topics affect them individually and as a community. Two of the six programming blocks in each student’s schedule are allocated for advisory programming, giving students time to connect with their advisors and group once or twice each week.

In grades nine through 12, students remain with the same advisor and advisory group, creating continuity that fosters trust and deeper relationships. This consistent structure allows students to feel comfortable asking for help, celebrating successes, and engaging in honest conversations. Advisors get to know their students well and use that knowledge to support their growth. Whether advocating during a challenging moment, offering course selection guidance, or nominating a student for a special opportunity, advisors become champions for their advisees. “Advisory strengthens relationships within the grade level and provides opportunities for students to develop empathy, communication, self-awareness, and conflict resolution,” says Ali. “It also provides a consistent space for students to share their thoughts, challenges, and successes without judgment.”

To learn more about Pacific Ridge School’s programs and curriculum, visit www.pacificridge.org.