Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) First Day of School

The first day at Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) looks different depending on the grade. For the youngest students, the focus is on settling in, learning routines, and making the classroom feel welcoming - many parents snap a first-day photo before drop-off, especially for kids starting kindergarten. For students in the upper grades, it's more about reconnecting, reviewing expectations, and easing back into the school year. Plan for a slightly slower drop-off in the morning as families get organized.

Over the last 3 years, conditions on the first day of school have varied: in 2025 it was overcast with a high of 88°F and low of 62°F; in 2024 it was clear with a high of 94°F and low of 62°F; and in 2023 there was heavy rain with a high of 72°F and low of 67°F (2.72 of rain). Late August weather in this area can range from overcast marine layer mornings to warm, sunny afternoons, so it's worth checking the forecast the week before.

On August 20, sunrise is at 6:18 AM and sunset is at 7:36 PM. With school typically running from around 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, students will have full daylight for the entire school day - the sun is well up before the morning bell and stays light well past dismissal. Along the South Bay coast, a morning marine layer is common in late August but typically burns off by mid-morning.

Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) is located at 2525 Fifth St., Santa Monica, CA 90405. It is part of Santa Monica-Malibu Unified.

Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) serves students in Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) has approximately 200 students.

Santa Monica Alternative (K-8) is part of Santa Monica-Malibu Unified, which serves Santa Monica and the surrounding area.