The Gooden School is named in honor of The Right Reverend Robert Gooden, Bishop Suffragan of the Los Angeles Diocese from 1930-1947. Bishop Gooden was committed to the belief that all children should receive a quality education and he fervently believed that the unique nature of every individual should be known and developed.

The private school was founded in 1975. Students are provided a classical education within a nurturing environment at The Gooden School, which offers families in San Gabriel Valley, including Pasadena, a rare and wonderful experience. The educational program includes instruction in the core subjects – language arts, mathematics, social studies and science. Additionally, students receive instruction in two foreign languages – Spanish for kindergarten, elementary and middle school grades and Latin for grades six, seven, and eight. The school understands the importance of an arts education in the development of children's art instruction and has been a commitment of the independent school since its inception. All students participate in instrumental, vocal, and visual arts instruction each week, and they also take part in many drama productions. The private school curriculum is a blend of traditional and progressive approaches and close student-teacher relationships ensure that every child is recognized and known within the community.

Since its founding, the private school has not lost sight of its purpose: to provide a classical education in a nurturing environment. We continue to maintain one class per grade level, with classes that average 18-21 students per class. As a result, faculty members continue to foster close relationships with students and effective partnerships with parents.