Niche.com Ranks Catlin Gabel
as Top Oregon School
Welcome to Catlin Gabel School in Portland, Oregon
Catlin Gabel is a nationally recognized progressive private day school, offering an exceptional education for preschool through 12th grade. We nurture each student’s curiosity and individuality in an inclusive community that values creativity, character, and a lifelong love of learning. Students are empowered to think critically, explore boldly, and contribute meaningfully to the world.
Catlin Gabel News
![Leaders of CGSA stand together and smile]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1790889820/catlingabel/pywpzokhtiqdwpj0bfdf/CGSA2026.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1790889820/catlingabel/pywpzokhtiqdwpj0bfdf/CGSA2026.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1790889820/catlingabel/pywpzokhtiqdwpj0bfdf/CGSA2026.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1790889820/catlingabel/pywpzokhtiqdwpj0bfdf/CGSA2026.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1790889820/catlingabel/pywpzokhtiqdwpj0bfdf/CGSA2026.png","width":1275}])
Rose H. (’27), student body president, and Atharva D. (’27), vice president, talk about leadership, community, and what they hope to build this year.
![A badge says 2027 Niche best schools over a photo of students on campus]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1790355843/catlingabel/dc8g3ul4hj4nbfnembc0/niche2027.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1790355843/catlingabel/dc8g3ul4hj4nbfnembc0/niche2027.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1790355843/catlingabel/dc8g3ul4hj4nbfnembc0/niche2027.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1790355843/catlingabel/dc8g3ul4hj4nbfnembc0/niche2027.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1790355843/catlingabel/dc8g3ul4hj4nbfnembc0/niche2027.png","width":1275}])
Catlin Gabel School has been named the #1 Best Private K-12 School in Oregon by Niche for the eighth consecutive year, and the #1 high school for STEM in Oregon.
![Distinguished alumni stand and smile with Head of School Aline Garcia Rubio]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1789769783/catlingabel/u3ssacya8ccdtc2h59fv/Distinguishedalumni.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1789769783/catlingabel/u3ssacya8ccdtc2h59fv/Distinguishedalumni.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1789769783/catlingabel/u3ssacya8ccdtc2h59fv/Distinguishedalumni.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1789769783/catlingabel/u3ssacya8ccdtc2h59fv/Distinguishedalumni.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1789769783/catlingabel/u3ssacya8ccdtc2h59fv/Distinguishedalumni.png","width":1275}])
The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award honorees are Jane Zalutsky '76, Ramsey McPhillips '76, Sarah (Long) McGlenn '06, and Avi Gupta '19.
![Afton Walsh stands in front of the new Schnizter Center]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1789158722/catlingabel/tfetypv7rhs2eean3qnk/AftonWalsh.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1789158722/catlingabel/tfetypv7rhs2eean3qnk/AftonWalsh.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1789158722/catlingabel/tfetypv7rhs2eean3qnk/AftonWalsh.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1789158722/catlingabel/tfetypv7rhs2eean3qnk/AftonWalsh.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1789158722/catlingabel/tfetypv7rhs2eean3qnk/AftonWalsh.png","width":1275}])
Catlin Gabel alumna Afton Walsh '03 leads Walsh Construction, the team building the new Schnitzer Center. As a CG parent, she's also one of the people who will watch her own kids walk through its doors. Join us on September 18 to celebrate the Schnitzer Center and “Make Your Mark” on the building.
![Aline Garcia Rubio smiles in the Vollum Courtyard on Catlin Gabel's campus]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787694703/catlingabel/xkdjcz4sryojnltcnjju/Aline_Volum_1275x675.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787694703/catlingabel/xkdjcz4sryojnltcnjju/Aline_Volum_1275x675.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1787694703/catlingabel/xkdjcz4sryojnltcnjju/Aline_Volum_1275x675.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1787694703/catlingabel/xkdjcz4sryojnltcnjju/Aline_Volum_1275x675.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1787694703/catlingabel/xkdjcz4sryojnltcnjju/Aline_Volum_1275x675.jpg","width":1275}])
As the 2026 school year begins, a longtime Catlin Gabel educator and innovator steps into the school’s top leadership role after two decades shaping the Catlin Gabel experience
![Upper school social studies student raises hand in class]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1784574575/catlingabel/vrz4klkz5mud4wza5jar/9thgradedemocracy.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1784574575/catlingabel/vrz4klkz5mud4wza5jar/9thgradedemocracy.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1784574575/catlingabel/vrz4klkz5mud4wza5jar/9thgradedemocracy.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1784574575/catlingabel/vrz4klkz5mud4wza5jar/9thgradedemocracy.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1784574575/catlingabel/vrz4klkz5mud4wza5jar/9thgradedemocracy.png","width":1275}])
In May, Helena Gougeon and Amanda Williams brought Portland's Clean Energy Fund into their 9th grade social studies classroom and asked 80 students to deliberate on the city program as citizens.
![Group of upper school students hiking through woods]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1784145677/catlingabel/mwzjfreg7kkfbleobjse/leadershipoutdoors.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1784145677/catlingabel/mwzjfreg7kkfbleobjse/leadershipoutdoors.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1784145677/catlingabel/mwzjfreg7kkfbleobjse/leadershipoutdoors.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1784145677/catlingabel/mwzjfreg7kkfbleobjse/leadershipoutdoors.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1784145677/catlingabel/mwzjfreg7kkfbleobjse/leadershipoutdoors.jpg","width":1275}])
For two weeks each spring, Catlin Gabel's Applied Leadership in the Outdoors (ALO) Immersive sends Upper School students into the backcountry to learn what leadership, growth, and community look like outside the classroom.
![Seniors parade around campus with a Catlin Gabel flag]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1781298011/catlingabel/utv0xdihvdsru0ykvxu6/HBL-Senior-Parade-May-2026-61.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1781298011/catlingabel/utv0xdihvdsru0ykvxu6/HBL-Senior-Parade-May-2026-61.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1781298011/catlingabel/utv0xdihvdsru0ykvxu6/HBL-Senior-Parade-May-2026-61.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1781298011/catlingabel/utv0xdihvdsru0ykvxu6/HBL-Senior-Parade-May-2026-61.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1781298011/catlingabel/utv0xdihvdsru0ykvxu6/HBL-Senior-Parade-May-2026-61.jpg","width":1275}])
Here are a few highlighted awards, achievements, and interesting facts from the Class of 2026.
![A female volleyball player bumps the ball over the net]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1780944253/catlingabel/c2udgtue9n868tctngme/AL-US-Varsity-Volleyball-18SEP25-69_2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1780944253/catlingabel/c2udgtue9n868tctngme/AL-US-Varsity-Volleyball-18SEP25-69_2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1780944253/catlingabel/c2udgtue9n868tctngme/AL-US-Varsity-Volleyball-18SEP25-69_2.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1780944253/catlingabel/c2udgtue9n868tctngme/AL-US-Varsity-Volleyball-18SEP25-69_2.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1780944253/catlingabel/c2udgtue9n868tctngme/AL-US-Varsity-Volleyball-18SEP25-69_2.jpg","width":1275}])
From middle school milestones to state-level success, student-athletes delivered a year of resilience, record-breaking performances, and standout achievements.
![(R to L) Robin Janssen with her family: Eli and Adair Janssen]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1779997726/catlingabel/rxb8vwylyfp1ygvmzfct/894x712-Robin-Janssen.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1779997726/catlingabel/rxb8vwylyfp1ygvmzfct/894x712-Robin-Janssen.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1779997726/catlingabel/rxb8vwylyfp1ygvmzfct/894x712-Robin-Janssen.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1779997726/catlingabel/rxb8vwylyfp1ygvmzfct/894x712-Robin-Janssen.jpg","width":894}])
The school’s highest honor for volunteering recognizes outstanding contributions to the Catlin Gabel community.
![Students typing on a laptop]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1771461854/catlingabel/pntee6mdocwxccxaddkw/NASHCO-LS-Academic-Details-April21-5_crop.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1771461854/catlingabel/pntee6mdocwxccxaddkw/NASHCO-LS-Academic-Details-April21-5_crop.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1771461854/catlingabel/pntee6mdocwxccxaddkw/NASHCO-LS-Academic-Details-April21-5_crop.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1771461854/catlingabel/pntee6mdocwxccxaddkw/NASHCO-LS-Academic-Details-April21-5_crop.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1771461854/catlingabel/pntee6mdocwxccxaddkw/NASHCO-LS-Academic-Details-April21-5_crop.jpg","width":1275}])
As interest in AI grows, Catlin Gabel is taking a values-driven approach. Educators are exploring how thoughtfully designed AI tools can support teaching, learning, and evaluation — without losing the human touch.
![classroom with blue carpet two first graders seated in foreground knitting students standing and seated at round tables in background]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770153709/catlingabel/x45zi3as1dbjfapxmoe0/1700x900-1st-grade-transitions.jpg","width":1700}])
During the transition to Lower School, students build on their experience and deepen their confidence as independent learners.
![Aliyah Abodunrin ’29 on left Luna González González ’26 on right standing facing viewer smiling book shelves in background]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770153556/catlingabel/jufqwe7k3u8necz0lnfk/1700x900-wings.jpg","width":1700}])
In the Wings mentorship program, seniors support freshmen as they transition into the Upper School, demystifying the experience and offering friendship and guidance.
![Using TED Talks to Teach Students About Ethics, Evidence, and Argumentation]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1772478492/catlingabel/wljdlbqhlwbiwblnxdth/1275x675_TEDTalks_TB.tiff","width":2200}])
In a cross-curricular Middle School project, students take a deep dive into the scientific method, data collection, and presentation skills.
Key Facts
30% HIGHER SAT SCORES
compared with national average
51% of student population
identifies as people of color or multiracial
45+ HONORS CLASSES
available to Upper School students
$6.5M IN Financial ASSISTANCE
awarded to 27% of students in 2026-27
12 ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
6 sports for Middle School and 8 for Upper School
120+ colleges
send representatives annually to recruit student applicants
44 DIFFERENT LANGUAGES
spoken by Catlin Gabel students
99% of graduates
attend 4-year college
STUDENT SUCCESS
From Catlin to College
Recent graduates return to campus to share insights into the college experience.
FROM THE CLASSROOM
Using TED Talks to Teach Students About Ethics, Evidence, and Argumentation
In a cross-curricular Middle School project, students take a deep dive into the scientific method, data collection, and presentation skills.
AMAZING EDUCATORS
Supporting Learners with Structure, Presence, and Care
A career educator with decades of classroom experience, our Middle School Academic Dean Megan Mathes is building bridges between students, families, and the school.
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
Continuity and Curiosity: Leadership in Transition
Outgoing Head of School Tim Bazemore interviews new head Dr. Aline Garcia-Rubio about the future of Catlin Gabel and the value of progressive education.
Upcoming Events
Beginning & Lower School Playground Playdate
-
Catlin Gabel School
Come play with us! Our Saturday morning play dates are relaxed, joy-filled mornings intended for Beginning & Lower School families.
Our playground play dates offer a chance to explore our new playground, connect with current parents, and let your little ones have some fun alongside future classmates.
Please register in the Admission Portal.
Beginning & Lower School Admission Overview
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Zoom
Learn more about the Beginning & Lower School application process! This Zoom webinar will review the application timeline and required checklist items, share helpful tips for navigating the admission process, and provide plenty of time for Q&A.
Please register in the Admission Portal.
Middle School Admission Overview
-
Zoom
Learn more about the Middle School application process! This Zoom webinar will review the application timeline and required checklist items, share helpful tips for navigating the admission process, and provide plenty of time for Q&A.
Please register in the Admission Portal.
Upper School Admission Overview
-
Zoom
Learn more about the Upper School application process! This Zoom webinar will review the application timeline and required checklist items, share helpful tips for navigating the admission process, and provide plenty of time for Q&A.
Please register in the Admission Portal.
Beginning & Lower School Open House
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Catlin Gabel School
Catlin Gabel’s Beginning & Lower School Open House offers prospective families an opportunity to explore what makes us Oregon’s top independent school. Visit our 67-acre campus, check out PS-5th grade classroom spaces, meet teachers, and hear directly from school leadership about our academic programs and extracurricular offerings.
Students applying to 2nd-5th grade are welcome to attend with their families. For families with younger applicants (Preschool-1st grade), Open House attendance is limited to adults.