Purple Lotus School was established in 1997 to integrate Buddhist philosophy and practice into elementary and secondary school education. With the support of the Purple Lotus Temple and many wonderful supporters and volunteers, PLBS is able to maintain and exceed the educational standards set by the California Department of Education and, at the same time, create and develop a holistic and moral, integrating Buddhist life style, educational program to bring students the wisdom and knowledge to achieve balanced mind, body, and spirit.

SCHOOL PURPOSES
PLBS is committed to advancing beyond the traditional academic core curriculum through the integration of fundamental Buddhist teachings that instill spiritual, mental, and physical excellence in all of its students.  The ultimate purpose of the school is to provide a positive supportive environment that will nurture and produce well-rounded individuals – mind, body, citizenship, and spirit.

• 1997 – Founded by Master Samantha Chou, the leader of the True Buddha School Purple Lotus Temple.  In 1997, only Elementary Division was in operation.
• 1998 – Established a boarding facility to accommodate non-local students.
• 1999 – Middle School operation began.
• 2001 – High School operation began.
• 2002 – Received full accreditation by the National Private Schools Accreditation Alliance.
• 2005 – Obtained permission from the United States government (IRS) to enroll and issue I-20 to foreign nonresident students from throughout the world.
• 2005 – Accepted by the Western Association of Schools ad Colleges (WASC), the foremost worldwide accreditation agency, for association and candidacy
• 2007 – Received WASC accreditation (two-year terms) in June 2007.