Rolling Hills
Preparatory School

Highlights

  • Unparalleled Academic Support
  • Top-tier College Admissions
  • Dynamic Learning Experience
  • Thriving Athletics Department   

Rolling Hills Preparatory (RHP) was established in 1981 and serves students in grades 5–12 on a 15-acre campus. In addition to strong academics, the school offers various opportunities in student leadership, the arts and CIF athletics. Here, the school shares the stories of five seniors—their decision to attend Rolling Hills Prep, how that decision has leveraged their future and what motivates them to do their best.

Chloe Schmidt

Chloe came to RHP needing extra support after struggling in elementary school. In fourth grade, her teacher recognized that she had a learning disability, but the school district didn’t provide accommodations. After Chloe was diagnosed with auditory processing disorder, her parents chose RHP as the best environment for her growth. She has thrived academically and now takes AP and honors courses.

One of the most valuable lessons Chloe has learned at RHP is self-advocacy. Her hard work has paid off, earning her acceptance into 10 universities, where she plans to major in nursing. Motivated by her family, Chloe lives by her mother’s words: “Have courage and be kind.” As RHP’s student body president, Chloe is grateful for her journey and the unwavering support that has shaped her into the person she is today.

Mateo Trujillo

Mateo joined RHP in sixth grade, when his parents sought a smaller, academically focused school. Drawn to the personalized approach, he has excelled and maintains an impressive 4.7 GPA. The small class sizes and strong relationships with teachers help him stay motivated and push himself academically.

Mateo has been a standout leader on the boys’ basketball team, earning the Daily Breeze Player of the Year award and a spot on the All-CIF First Team in 2024. His relentless pursuit of excellence, both in sports and academics, has defined his RHP experience.

He believes that striving for perfection—even if unattainable—leads to greatness, a mindset reinforced by Coach Kitani. Mateo embraces the high expectations placed on him—lessons will stay with him as he moves on to the next chapter of his journey.

Keli Quan

Keli transferred to RHP as a sophomore, looking for a strong basketball program and a supportive academic environment. She quickly embraced the smaller class sizes, which helped her learn more effectively, ask questions and participate without fear. With a 4.3 GPA, she has balanced her studies and athletics and thrives in both.

Keli is motivated by the resources and sense of community that ha       ve helped her grow. College counseling provided invaluable guidance, and participating in symposiums and lectures taught her to stay calm and present while speaking. These experiences have prepared her for life beyond RHP. Keli carries with her the wisdom of both her coach and her dad—understanding that it’s not the situation but how you respond, and that as long as she gives her all, she has done her part. 

Aiden Lunzer

Aiden came to RHP in fifth grade after struggling in elementary school. His teachers have built strong relationships with him, making learning a collaborative experience. For the first time, he felt part of a community.

Aiden has maintained an A average and serves as president of the National Honor Society. He has helped rebuild the school’s nature walk while working to preserve the endangered blue butterfly on RHP’s federal reserve. Aiden teaches an acoustic band class to middle and high school students and plans to attend Belmont University’s School of Music in Nashville.

Aiden believes that life is about being present, making a difference and staying involved. His mantra is to “live in the moment, make as much of a difference as you can and be involved in the community.” He knows that true fulfillment comes from connection and contribution.

Mychela Green

Mychela joined RHP in sixth grade, drawn to its supportive environment and opportunities for growth. One of her biggest accomplishments has been helping establish the first-ever Black Student Union at RHP and serving as its president. She has led impactful events like Black History Month, Juneteenth projects and successful fundraisers.

Her time at RHP has made Mychela more socially and mentally aware. She values love, peace, sisterhood and ambition, believing success is about growth and not just achievements. As she prepares to attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she carries the lessons of leadership, resilience and the power of community with her.

Mychela is motivated by self-reflection and development. “Being at your peak doesn’t make you whole or genuine. We need to constantly be reflecting, developing and reassessing,” she says.

Photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro