Our History
In 1963, the Episcopal bishop of Northern California decided to close the only local parochial school in Roseville, California, the St. Francis Parish School. Many of the parents were unhappy with this decision and decided to start their own school, one that would offer a qualitatively different educational experience for their children. These founding families had the help of two Episcopal priests, one of whom had founded a St. Albans Country Day School in Chicago. When the time came to name their new school, this priest suggested the use of the name St. Albans. The Country Day School name was especially appropriate because the property upon which the school was to be built was located in what was then a rural area on the edge of Roseville.
Although the new school had religious activities, there was never a direct association with the church.
The founders of St. Albans succeeded in creating a school that stressed character building, had high academic standards, and was committed to providing small classes with much individual attention for students. They developed a strong curriculum, teaching educational “basics” such as phonics and math. Over the years, classes in Spanish, art, music and drama, and physical education were added because of the belief of the importance of a well-rounded education.
Now almost 50 years later, classes are still small and although students no longer participate in religious activities, the teachers continue to stress moral and ethical values. Above all, St. Albans remains committed to providing students with a strong academic foundation that prepares them well for high school and beyond.