In 1900 there was a school standing in picturesque Point Loma. A few years later, about three hundred children were in attendance. On its heyday, the Point Loma campus had a preschool for three to five years old, primary and secondary schools, a university, a school of antiquity, a scientific research department, a school of music supporting a full orchestra, string quartet, choral groups, and a program of drama. The founder of the school is Katherine Tingley. She established a student-centered school rather than a teacher-centered one, encouraging independence of spirit in her students, which it was hoped they would gain by basing their actions on the promptings of their inner hearts. In carrying out these aims, she sought the willing cooperation of students, staff, parents, and the community.

1. Photographs of Raja Yoga School:

Theosophical Headquarter	Children at Lunch 1903
Morning Class	Practicing Swordmanship

2. Documents & Books:

• 18970225 Doc0439 Letter of Thanks from the Mayor to Katherine Tingley

3. Additional Resources:

• The Raja-Yoga Schools of Point Loma (The Theosophical Society)
• Katherine Augusta Westcott Tingley (1847-1929) (San Diego History Center)
• REMINISCENCES OF LOMALAND (The Journal of San Diego History, Summer 1974)
• Book: Katherine Tingley and her Râja-Yoga system of education(UCSD Library)
• Book: Souvenir Album: Lomaland (UCSD Library)

Exploring the History of Raja Yoga School

Lesson Objectives:

• To explore the life and contributions of Katherine Tingley and Raja Yoga School
• To understand the impact of their teachings on education and spirituality

Lesson Procedure:

• Step 1: Introduction

- Begin by engaging students in a discussion about the importance of education and its potential to shape individuals and societies. 
- Introduce the concept of holistic education, integrating spiritual and moral development with academic learning. 
- Provide a brief overview of Katherine Tingley and Raja Yoga School, highlighting their mission and principles.

• Step 2: Research and Exploration

- Divide students into small groups and assign each group a specific aspect related to Katherine Tingley or Raja Yoga School.
- Instruct students to conduct research using online resources to gather information about their assigned topic.
- Encourage students to take notes and record important details, key events, and significant contributions.

• Step 3: Group Presentations 

- Each group presents their findings to the class, providing a brief overview of their assigned topic.
- Facilitate class discussions on the significance and potential impact of the teachings of Raja Yoga School in today's world.

• Step 4: Reflection and Application

- Ask students to individually reflect on what they have learned about Katherine Tingley and Raja Yoga School.
- Instruct them to write a short essay or create a visual representation (poster/artwork) that highlights the relevance of the school's principles in their own lives or society.
- Encourage students to draw connections between the teachings of Katherine Tingley and contemporary issues, such as mindfulness, ethical decision-making, and the pursuit of holistic well-being.

• Step 5: Extension Activities

Invite a guest speaker, such as a local theosophist or educator, to share their insights and experiences related to Raja Yoga School.

Summary:

Katherine Tingley was a prominent theosophist and visionary leader who sought to create an educational institution that combined spiritual principles with academic excellence. Under her guidance, Raja Yoga School emphasized the development of the whole child—intellectually, physically, morally, and spiritually. The curriculum incorporated a balance of academic subjects, artistic expression, physical education, and character development. Katherine Tingley's pioneering efforts to integrate spiritual principles into education and foster a holistic approach to personal growth and development remain relevant today.