The school was a co-educational pre-collegiate, non-profit facility governed by a board of trustees and supported by tuition revenue, charitable contributions, and endowment income.

Starting Gate School began in 1972 when Genevieve M. Reignierd opened up a day care center for a local Episcopalian Church, which earned the reputation of providing higher learning for children.

Students regularly participated in community outreach programs and volunteered their time outside of school.

In 2012 the school held a fundraiser to honor the late Vallejo Police Officer Jim Capoot and his family with the dedication of a memorial sign.

Students took part in field trips, classroom presentations, class activities, and holiday parties.