Quest Forward Middle & High School is a private, college-preparatory school in Santa Rosa serving students in grades 612.
We provide a personalized, future-focused education where every student is known, challenged, and supported as they discover their strengths and prepare for success beyond graduation.
Our innovative approach combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning, laboratory-based science, digital literacy, leadership development, and real-world experiences.
Through personalized mentoring, small class sizes, and our signature Pathways Program, students explore career interests, participate in service learning, complete internships, and receive individualized college and career guidance.
Students develop the skills that matter most for the future-including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and self-management-while taking ownership of their learning in a supportive and inclusive community.
Our commitment to student engagement is reflected in our 96% average daily attendance rate, demonstrating that students enjoy coming to school and are actively invested in their education.
Beyond the classroom, students build lasting friendships through clubs, leadership opportunities, outdoor education, and overnight experiences that foster teamwork, confidence, and personal growth.
At Quest Forward, we don't just prepare students for college-we prepare them to lead meaningful, successful lives.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked CA School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 100 students
- Yearly Tuition: $17,500
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 7 students
- Application Deadline: Oct. 3 / Dec. 19 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Quest Forward Middle & High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Year Founded
2017
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Aug 10, 2026
Last Day of School
Fri. Jun 4, 2027
Student Body
Total Students
100 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
11 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.:
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
90%
Average Class Size
7 students
Number of AP/Advanced Courses
7 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform Dress
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Oct. 3 / Dec. 19 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$17,500
Tuition Notes
92% of our students are gifted scholarships.
% on Financial Aid
82%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$8,000
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 82%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Shianne Buxton
Admissions Associate
Admissions Team
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
1 sport
Sports
School Notes
- School Mascot: Quetzal
- Quest Forward Middle & High School
- Santa Rosa, CA
At Quest Forward Middle & High School, we believe students learn best when their education is meaningful, personalized, and connected to their future. Serving students in grades 612, we combine rigorous academics with real-world experiences, mentorship, and career exploration to prepare students not only for college, but for life.
Our small school community allows every student to be known, supported, and challenged. Teachers work closely with students through one-on-one coaching and small-group instruction, helping them build confidence, discover their strengths, and develop the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Personalized Learning with Purpose
Every student follows an individualized learning journey that encourages curiosity, ownership, and growth. Rather than simply memorizing content, students develop the critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that employers and colleges value most.
Students are encouraged to:- Set meaningful academic and personal goals.
- Take ownership of their learning.
- Build confidence through reflection and continuous feedback.
- Develop executive functioning skills such as organization, time management, and self-advocacy.
College, Career & Future Readiness
Preparing students for life after graduation begins long before senior year.
Our comprehensive College & Career Readiness program includes:- A dedicated Personal College Advisor who works individually with students and families.
- College Admissions Advantage support throughout high school.
- Career exploration beginning in middle school.
- Personalized pathway planning based on each student's interests and strengths.
- College-level coursework and dual enrollment opportunities.
- Guidance through college applications, financial aid, scholarships, and career planning.
The Pathways Program
Our signature Pathways Program helps students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
Throughout high school, students participate in:- Career exploration experiences.
- Service-learning opportunities.
- Leadership development.
- Professional networking.
- Goal-setting and personal growth.
- Two career-focused internships before graduation.
Graduates also have access to the Quest Forward Pathways Network, providing up to six years of continued coaching, networking opportunities, and career support after high school.
Hands-On & Innovative Learning
Learning extends beyond traditional classrooms through engaging, project-based experiences that encourage creativity and deeper understanding.
Students benefit from:- Laboratory-based science courses.
- Digital literacy instruction.
- Professional digital portfolio development.
- Collaborative projects and presentations.
- Technology-integrated learning.
- Opportunities to apply learning to authentic, real-world challenges.
Middle School Designed for Growth
Our middle school program (Grades 68) is intentionally designed to help students build a strong academic foundation while developing confidence, independence, and essential life skills.
Students participate in:- Skills-focused learning that strengthens communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.
- Early college and career exploration.
- Leadership opportunities.
- Personalized mentoring.
- A supportive environment that eases the transition into high school.
Beyond the Classroom
Students are encouraged to discover their passions through experiences that enrich learning and build community.
Opportunities include:- Student-led clubs and leadership opportunities.
- Community service.
- Outdoor Education & Overnight Retreats designed to strengthen relationships, build community, encourage personal growth, and provide memorable hands-on learning experiences in the outdoors.
- School events, outdoor education, and community-building experiences.
A Community Where Students Belong
At Quest Forward, relationships come first.
We intentionally cultivate a school culture where students feel safe, respected, and empowered to be themselves. Every student is known by name, supported by caring educators, and encouraged to take risks, ask questions, and pursue their goals with confidence.
Our goal is not simply to help students graduate-it is to help them become resilient, compassionate, self-directed learners who are prepared to succeed in college, careers, and life.
At Quest Forward Middle & High School, students don't just prepare for the future-they begin creating it.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Quest Forward Middle & High School cost?
Quest Forward Middle & High School's tuition is approximately $17,500 for private students.
What schools are Quest Forward Middle & High School often compared to?
Quest Forward Middle & High School is often viewed alongside schools like Sonoma Academy by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Quest Forward Middle & High School?
The acceptance rate of Quest Forward Middle & High School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
Does Quest Forward Middle & High School offer a summer program?
Yes, Quest Forward Middle & High School offers a summer program. Visit their for more information.
What sports does Quest Forward Middle & High School offer?
Quest Forward Middle & High School offers 1 interscholastic sports: Intramural Sports Only.
What is Quest Forward Middle & High School's ranking?
Quest Forward Middle & High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Quest Forward Middle & High School?
The application deadline for Quest Forward Middle & High School is Oct. 3 / Dec. 19 / rolling (applications are due on Oct. 3 / Dec. 19 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
5 10/28/2024
My overall experience with Quest Forward High School has varied. I have been here since freshman year and it has changed drastically over time. The staff are always there for you and make sure students have the time and attention when in need of help. They are appreciative and try to teach in ways students are not used to, giving them the chance to learn new things. Quest is a small community that accepts all and is always there for anyone. The school makes activities fun and always creates events bringing everyone together.
5 10/28/2024
Quest is one of the best schools you can go to. They have prepared me for my career choice. I appreciate them being fluid and helping build my school schedule around my internship. Thank you
5 10/28/2024
This school is great for creating your pathway outside of school and your nearby future. They learn your personal interests and use that information to plan the next couple of years. They find internships and volunteer organizations to help you try new things.
5 10/28/2024
I have been attending Quest for four years and have had a great time. Quest is a small community that has so many stories and memories. As a senior, I have so many happy and fun memories of all of my classmates. Quest has led me to grow as a person and as a student. I have been exposed to so many amazing opportunities both related to my career and hobbies.
5 10/28/2024
My experiences in school have always limited my creative aspect of me. Entering high school I expected the same circumstances, but Quest Forward High School encouraged it. Quest Forward allows my own creativity to be used in each subject. Every class allows me to brainstorm and connect my career interests to my classes.
5 10/28/2024
At Quest Forward High School, I enjoy that we have little to no homework because we have a lot of in-class work on our assignments. We also have a period on Thursdays called WIN where we get called into a class, if one of our teachers calls us in and we have 45 min to work on that class. We can also get called in for a different class after and work more in class too. We also do a lot of hands-on learning with some of our classes.
5 8/23/2024
I'm incredibly passionate about the mission at Quest. The focus on helping students see that there are multiple paths to their dream careers and guiding them through all their options is something I wish I had in high school. Our tight-knit community offers endless support for students, families, and staff. With a 7:1 class size ratio and a 1:12 counselor-to-student ratio, students receive the personalized attention they need to thrive, along with the autonomy in their classrooms to explore their interests. The new leadership team at the school is deeply committed to the mission and prioritizes the student's best interests in every decision they make.
5 8/23/2024
Quest Forward High School has been transformative for my son. The teachers are incredibly dedicated, providing exceptional support and rigorous academics that have truly fostered his growth. Thanks to the school's close-knit community, he's been able to dive deeply into his passions-rowing, music, athletics, and leadership-without the usual high school distractions. This distinctive environment not only nurtures individual interests but also guarantees that students see the tangible benefits of their hard work and dedication.
5 8/23/2024
We are incredibly grateful for the experience our family has had at Quest Academy. Our eldest son recently graduated as a senior, and our younger son is now beginning his journey as a freshman. From the start, what stood out to us about Quest Academy was their exceptional ability to connect with students on a personal level, fostering an environment where our children feel truly engaged and motivated.One of the things we appreciate most is how the school involves students in community activities, helping them explore and develop interests that extend beyond the classroom. This approach not only enhances their academic experience but also encourages well-rounded personal development.As we look to the future, we're thrilled about the new staff and educators who have joined the Quest Academy family. The school has assembled a dream team of teachers who are passionate about guiding and inspiring our youth. We couldn't be more excited about the direction in which the school is headed and the opportunities it will provide for our younger son. Quest Academy has truly been a blessing for our family, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to any parent looking for a school that not only educates but also empowers students to reach their full potential.
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