CAPTAIN COOPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Captain Cooper Elementary is a Title I public elementary school that is part of the Carmel Unified school district, located in Big Sur, CA with about 60 students offering grade levels from Kindergarten to 5th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 5 teachers, Captain Cooper Elementary has a student/teacher ratio of about 12:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Captain Cooper Elementary School is a unique, historic institution situated in the heart of Big Sur, California. Serving as the only public school in the remote coastal community, it operates as a single-site district that reflects the rugged, isolated, and tight-knit nature of the region it serves. Because of its location along Highway 1, the school is deeply integrated into the Big Sur environment, often functioning as a community hub that emphasizes place-based learning and an appreciation for the surrounding natural landscape.

The school is known for its small, intimate class sizes and a multi-age instructional approach, which allows for personalized attention and strong social-emotional development among students. Despite its small enrollment, Captain Cooper maintains a rigorous academic standard while fostering a culture that encourages creativity, environmental stewardship, and outdoor exploration. It is widely regarded as a focal point of the local community, providing an essential educational foundation while preserving the distinct character and spirit of the Big Sur coast.

For more information, contact Captain Cooper Elementary at (831) 667-2452 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.