Anacapa School, an independent middle and high school in Santa Barbara, has announced additions to its faculty, staff and programming for the 2025-26 academic year.
“These new educators and specialists bring fresh expertise to an already exceptional team and support the school’s mission of nurturing resilient, confident, and caring students,” school officials said.
Anacapa’s educational model uses an interdisciplinary and project-based approach that redefines how students learn, develop, and engage with the world, the school said. Anacapa offers small class sizes. with a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
This year, Anacapa has a redesigned interdisciplinary seventh- and eighth-grade program, along with an academically integrated outdoor education program that deepens students’ appreciation for the natural world through mountain, sea, and desert explorations, the school reports.
“Its expanded outdoor program is an integral part of the school’s mission and is designed to encourage students to connect with nature, overcome challenges, and create authentic bonds with their peers and teachers,” the school said.
Among the new hires are:
Edie Lanphar: seventh/eighth-grade lead teacher/director of the Middle School. Lanphar is known for her student-centered approach and commitment to fostering academic excellence and empathy in the classroom.
Michael Playford: A math and science teacher, Playford’s interdisciplinary background and passion for mentoring students align with Anacapa’s focus on intellectual discourse and collaborative learning, the school said.
Sage Kimball: Arts coordinator and teacher, Kimball brings experience and enthusiasm for helping students find and express themselves through art.
Keri Hope: a learning specialist, Hope offers expert, individualized learning support and strategies to ensure all students thrive academically and personally.
Wendelin Wagner: director of outdoor education, Anacapa alum Wagner draws on decades of experience in experiential and alternative education to lead the school’s expanded outdoors program with a focus on marine studies.
Last spring, Anacapa students and faculty embarked on a four-day, all-school trip to Lake Sequoia, near Grant Grove in Sequoia National Park. Students enjoyed boating, fishing, archery, ropes courses, rock climbing, and hiking.
Personalized journaling, team-building activities, campfires, skits, and academic challenges enriched their experience.
Looking ahead, Anacapa has a five-day fall trip to San Simeon called Castles & Connections. There, students will explore the art and history of Hearst Castle and be challenged through outdoor adventuring.
“Learning starts with community,” said Mari Talkin, head of school, who hikes alongside students on school expeditions.
“At Anacapa School, everyone belongs. Everyone has a voice and is given safe harbor,” Talkin. “The compassion and connectedness that is fostered here then radiates out to the larger world.
“We’re excited to welcome these talented educators into our community as we continue to create a diverse, supportive, and interdependent environment for our students and families,” Talkin said.
Campus tours are available Wednesdays throughout the summer. Spaces are available for the 2025-26 school year. Financial aid is available. Learn more at www.anacapaschool.org.