Preschools, Boarding and Private Day Schools Find the Right School for Your Child PRIVATE2021/2022SCHOOLS PENINSULA • SILICON VALLEY From the publishers of
2 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com 10 Bay Area locations Start Early. Start Right. Visit ChallengerSchool.com to learn more. Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. © 2020, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
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Discover yourself at Harker.
4 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Designed and Published by 875-A Island Dr., Ste. 421 Alameda, CA www.parentspress.com94502 Publishers | Parenting Media Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Associate Editor | Jean Abernathy Digital Content Editor | Katie McKean Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com To Add Your School submission.htmlparentspress.com/school-profilePeninsula / Silicon Valley Guide to Private Schools is published annually by Parents’ Press ©2021 6 Why PrivateConsiderSchool? 10 The WhereSchoolPrivateSearch:toStart? 14 Basic Timeline for Applying to a Private School A month-by-month guide to the application process 16 What to Expect When Applying 18 Applying After the Deadline 18 Shadow Days 20 Entrance Exam 101 22 Tips for a Great Essay 24 Interview Preparation 26 Make the Most of Your Campus Visit 28 Why Consider a Boarding School? 29 Financial Assistance: Basics You Need to Know 30 Myths FinancialAboutAssistance 31 andAcceptanceDecision 34 7 Steps to Choosing a Preschool 35 Featured School & Preschool Profiles 50ProfilesFeatured Preschools 54 Featured Private Day Schools 60 Featured Boarding Schools 63 What AccreditationDoes Mean? 63 Affiliation Key ThecontentsPeninsula/SiliconValley Guide to Private Schools & Preschools takes the guesswork out of finding the right school for your child, from start to finish.
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 5www.ParentsPress.com Armstrong Believes In Your Child As Much As You Do Charles Armstrong School is renowned in the Bay Area for serving students with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia. Armstrong’s comprehensive learning program unlocks the unique potential of our students in Grades 2 through 8, changing the trajectory of their lives. Questions? Email or call at (650)592-7570admissions@charlesarmstrong.orgx1264 Start Exploring Armstrong Today! Attend a Prospective Family Information Night NovemberSeptember5:00-6:00pm30(Virtual)16(OnCampus)January4(Virtual)February8(OnCampus)March19(Virtual)May24(OnCampus)
While most people commonly refer to independent schools as private, lumping them in with parochial and for profit schools, they are distinct because they are nonprofit and self-governing.
There are two primary sorts of private schools— independent schools and parochial schools.
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Many parents feel that their children will thrive better in what they believe is a smaller, safer environment with more room for personal attention. And while public schools must follow a curriculum heavily influenced by state standards, private schools have more freedom to customize lessons to students’ individual ways of learning.
Private schools can also point to low studentteacher ratios, freedom from state standards and testing, and lots of extras like music, foreign languages, and art that are underfunded or nonexistent in public schools. Rest assured, promise school experts, there is a school out there to suit every child.
Private schools can also point to low student-teacher ratios, freedom from state standards and testing, and lots of extras like music, foreign languages, and art that are underfunded or nonexistent in public schools.
Independent schools are defined as nonprofit private schools with their own governing board of trustees.
Parochial schools, where tuition is typically one-third that of independent schools, offer traditional instruc tion and have solid reputations. Families who are “in-parish,” that is, who live within the schools’ official parish boundaries or volunteer and participate regularly in the parish, get first priority. Otherwise the application procedures are similar to independent schools.
6 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
Why Consider Private School?
Guide to Private Schools | deep learning and joyful discovery for preschool through grade five PRESCHOOL / San Mateo 650.574.7400 preschool@serendipityschool.com ELEMENTARY / Belmont 650 596 9100 elementary@serendipityschool com s e r e n d i p i t y s c h o o l . c o m
Why Consider Private School?
When considering private school education, think about these benefits as outlined by the Independent Schools of the San Francisco Bay Area (www.issfba.org):
Independent schools nurture intellectual curiosity, stimulate personal growth, and encourage critical thinking. A larger percentage of students at independent schools are enrolled in advanced courses than in public schools. Small classes and individual attention Independent schools have low student-teacher ratios that encourage close connections with students. The median ratio in schools that are members of the National Association of Independent Schools in 2019–2020 was 8.5 students to 1 teacher. Excellent teachers Educators usually teach in their areas of expertise and are passionate about what they do. With more autonomy within the classroom, teachers are able to develop a full understanding of how each student learns and what motivates and inspires each individually.
cont’d. Greater likelihood of a student completing a bachelor’s or graduate degree education. Independent schools nurture not just students’ intellectual ability and curiosity but also their personal and social growth and civic conscience. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom to athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, and school leadership experiences. Inclusiveness Schools maintain diverse and vibrant student communities and welcome and respect each family. In 2019–20, students of color were 33 percent of total independent school enrollment nationally. A community of parents who actively participate in their children’s education Independent schools promote regular communica tion among students, parents, and teachers to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals for the student.
The opportunity to choose a school with a mission can select a school whose philosophy, values, and teaching approach is right for your child.
You
High academic standards
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It’s time to start thinking about fall of 2022 if your child is about to begin her last year of preschool or is in fifth or eighth grade. Starting a year before you actually need to can help relieve anxiety as well as give you time to do your research.
The timeline for what can be a rigorous search for private schools begins with open house events and tours starting in September; applications in December and January; and acceptance or rejection letters in early March. The sooner you can start checking out schools that interest you, the better, whether those schools are independent or parochial.
A simple way to begin thinking about which private school may be right for your child is to look at how the school is structured. For example, some schools do not assign homework and others group different grades together in one classroom. By doing this step, it is easy to rule out schools that are not of interest.
ith every private school brochure flashing photos of smiling students thriving in science labs and onstage, it can be hard to tell schools apart. Though on closer look, each school has its own personality, spanning a wider range of educational styles and often offering smaller classes than public schools.
Some schools follow distinct educational philosophies like Waldorf or Montessori. Others focus on music, offer a girlsonly student body, a year-round schedule, or teach their curriculum exclusively in French. There are schools with impressive art, sports, drama, and science programs. Some are K–5 or K–8, others only grades 6–8, and still others are K–12. All of these schools have the luxury of complete freedom in designing curriculum to fit the school’s philisophy because they are not subject to the state testing standards imposed on public schools.
W
10 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
An easy, simple way to begin thinking about which private school may be right for your child is to look at how the school is structured. to Start?
The Private School Search: Where
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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 11www.ParentsPress.com
• Look hard at your finances to see what kind of tuition your household is willing to handle. Find out if there are extra costs for books, computers, or after-school care, and if the school offers financial aid.
• Talk to families whose children already attend those schools. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. Ask other families what unique programs their children have benefitted from.
While it’s easier for the parents of a middle-schooler to pinpoint the social tendencies and learning style of their 13-year-old, that teenager often has thoughts of her own about which school to attend.
• Make a list of what matters most to you and your child. Perhaps it’s that the school is diverse, emphasizes the arts, has a grassy play area or a dance studio. It could also be that your child needs before-school care, elementary grades only, or an alternative learning environment.
• Learn basic facts like the number of students enrolled and student-teacher ratio.
As parents move through this lengthy process, they should reflect on the desires, needs, and learning styles of their child. This process is different depending on the child’s age. There are things that are clear about a fifth-grader (like how they handle homework and social conflict, whether they favor sports or the arts) that aren’t evident yet with a preschooler. Parents of eighthgraders have the easiest and the hardest time with this.
• Weed out schools that won’t work because of things like location or early start times.
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• If your child is entering kindergarten and has a fall birthday, research schools’ age cutoffs. Private schools usually prefer that children turn five before entering kindergarten. Some use cutoff dates as early as June 1st.
Parents who have been through the process before recommend the following combination of first steps:
• Consider your child’s particular learning style by consulting with current teachers (from preschool or day care, for example).
• Think about your family’s educational philosophy. Ask how students are tested, and how teachers convey expectations, teach classes and administer grades.
The school search process can be a stressful one. However, with some advance preparation and clear goals, it doesn’t have to be onerous. You might even gain some new insight into yourself and your child along the way.
The Private School Search: Where to Start? cont’d.
• Once you’ve got a list of schools to check out, create a list of admission event dates, application and financial assistance registration deadlines.
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 13www.ParentsPress.com Elementary School & Main Campus Office Upper Campus 2650 Sand Hill Road Menlo Park, CA 94025 Preschool & Transitional Kindergarten Lower Campus 330 Ravenswood Avenue Menlo Park, 94025 Preschool (2 yrs. old-Pre K) Elementary (K-5) At Trinity, education goes beyond top notch academics We learn through community, discovery, spirituality, and play. We look at the world from a different perspective to prepare students for success here and beyond Trinity School is where academic success, openness, individual learning, and real-world problem solving are taught. trinity-mp.org
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A month-by-month guide to the application process. not every school follows the exact schedule, many follow similar timetables for admission. following is a timeline to help you in the admissions process. schools are offering both virtual and in-person admissions
events.www.ParentsPress.com14 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools
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Review the test websites to learn about procedures and test dates, see sample questions, and purchase testpreparation books.
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Call schools to schedule individual tours, class visits, interviews, and “shadow days”. Continue scheduling tours, interviews, class visits, and standardized or school-based tests. Visit schools, virtually if necessary, during open houses, information sessions, and tours. Finalize the list of schools to which you will apply. Take required standardized admission tests. Continue scheduling tours, interviews, class visits, and standardized or school-based tests. Continue to watch for admission events you may want to attend. Request teacher recommendations from your child’s current school.
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Basic Timeline the year before you want your child to attend) your ideal school. schools that match your child’s needs. and ask questions of schools on your preliminary list. schools’ websites, look books to learn more about their programs and philosophies. admissions and financial aid material by phone or online. a calendar of pertinent admission and financial assitance deadlines for the schools to which you are considering applying. elementary schools about their test schedules and make appointments. Register for any standardized tests required for admission.
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FEBRUARY For schools with February admissions deadline turn in applications. schools applied to again or have your child participate in a student shadow day if you haven’t already. with permission from the National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org.
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DECEMBER to watch for any admission or school events of interest. Request transcripts at the end of your child’s first semester. any remaining applications, questionnaires, etc. application materials are due as early as December.
JANUARY attention to deadlines: Most schools’ applications are due in January or February, along with tests scores, references, transcripts, and financial assitance forms. assitance applications are normally due in January or February.
MARCH for school decisions starting in mid-March. for financial assitance decisions about this same time. your student is accepted by multiple schools, decide which school your child will attend. and return enrollment contracts and deposits. SEPTEMBERTO Attend events and activities for new parents and students during spring and summer. Get to know other families in the school. up for fall sports and clubs. to Private Schools
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Your first step is to research and visit schools, ideally starting the search at least a year before you plan to submit the application for your child. It takes time to determine which school is the best fit for your child. Navigating the application process can be overwhelming, but it can also be exciting. Here are tips on how to get your child into the right school.
• Student writing samples.
• A completed application form, usually available from the school’s website, and application fee.
• A formal interview, though for elementary school students, the interview more often consists of a teacher observation or individual or group-administered diagnostic tests. School admissions officers are there to help you complete your applications in a timely manner. They also want to make sure that the process is a positive
16 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
• After creating your short list of schools, call or email the school’s admissions office to find out about open house events, school tours, private visits, or other events that will allow you to get to know the school as best as possible. The school’s admissions office will also tell you about application requirements, including deadlines andWhilecosts.each school has its own criteria for admitting students, the typical application package involves:
• Parent or guardian statements.
• Student portfolios.
What to Expect When Applying
• A transcript of your child’s grades from her current school.
• Results from standardized tests or a schooladministered test. For middle school grades and above, the most common tests are: The Independent School Entrance Examination, or the ISEE; the Secondary School Aptitude Test, or the SSAT; the High School Placement Test, or HSPT, for Catholic schools. Depending on the grade to which you are applying, some schools might also ask for:
• Don’t shy away from disclosing vital information about your child or family—notably about any special academic needs your child has or about your family’s financial need for tuition help. While most private schools cannot afford to meet the academic and financial needs of all students they would like to admit, you won’t increase your child’s chances of acceptance by failing to be upfront about certain information. And, if the school turns your child down for any special issues,
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 17www.ParentsPress.com
• Don’t jump on the bandwagon of applying to a school just because your child’s peers are applying. Similarly, don’t just apply to a school because it is one of the “top” schools in the area and boasts of its graduates who go to the Ivies. Be realistic about your child’s strengths, interests, and personality. Apply to schools which are a good fit for your child.
it’s likely the school was not a good fit.
experience for you and your child and that there is a good match between your child and the school.
Try to avoid:
• While admissions officers want to be helpful, don’t call too often, overload them with additional information about your child, or try to impress them with your business or social contacts.
• Don’t miss application deadlines. But if you do, some schools have rolling admissions and admit students throughout the school year.
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• Visitors are often required to respect the school dress code.
“F inding a school that will accept your child after the normal admissions deadline has passed is not easy. But it can be done,” says Private School Review, an online site, www.privateschoolreview. com, that profiles private schools. “ You suddenly decide in late winter or early spring that you want to get your child into a private school for fall. Or a job transfer makes finding a private school in a hurry an absolute necessity. So, are you indeed too late? It depends.”
• Visiting students are usually allowed to shadow a current student they already know, as long as the request is made in advance.
• Shadow days are just for students; no parents allowed.
• Typically, shadow days can be scheduled anytime from October to May.
Don’t give up on a school if you’ve missed the admissions deadline.
First, contact the school’s admissions office, state your case, and see how school officials respond. Some schools have flexible or rolling admissions and accept students as long as the school enrollment roster has room, and some schools create waitlists when full. There is a chance that an accepted student may withdraw or cancel, creating an available spot at the last minute. The bottom line? “Ask anyway. You never know, and it never hurts to ask,” Private School Review advises.
A fter all the open house events, information nights, school tours, and interviews, the best way for kids to evaluate a school is to spend a day on campus. This year schools aree being ceative to allow for safe shadow experiences. Prospective students are matched up with a current student for an individual tour. If school is in session, they go to classes, share time during breaks and lunch, and get an insider’s tour of the campus, experiencing firsthand what it feels like to be a student at that school. Things to know:
• If prospective students do not know any current students, the school will assign one based on interests in academics, extracurricular activities, etc.
Applying After the Deadline
Shadow Days
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 19www.ParentsPress.com We’re dedicated to helping 2nd to 8th grade students with language-based learning differences, ADHD and school-based anxiety learn to love school again. Schedule a virtual tour. sandhillschool.org/visit Learn to love school again. info@sandhillschool.org650.688.3605 650 Clark Way Palo Alto, CA 94304 Feel Connection Discover Strengths Set Personal Goals Gain Confidence Because Sand Hill students learn differently, we teach differently.
The ISEE and SSAT tests are to middle and high school what the SAT or ACT is to college. They are administered independently at a set time at a specific location with results sent to designated schools. Often schools schedule these tests on their own campuses, and individual entrance requirements usually specify which test to take. The HSPT, however, does not coordinate national testing days, and test administration is the responsibility of individual schools or dioceses, which determine when to offer the HSPT. Now, all three tests offer at home options. These organizations provide students a secure computerbased testing option to be taken at home when group testing isn’t available.
ELEMENTARY LEVEL SSAT FOR Students in grades three and four. MIDDLE AND UPPER LEVEL SSAT Standard Test (group administered on eight Saturdays), Flex Test (group or individual administered on a different date), Regional Flex Test or Open Flex Test (regional consortia administered). FOR Students in grades 5–7 (Middle) and grades 8–11 (Upper).
Most private schools require students entering middle and high school to take an entrance exam to gain admission to their institutions.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, the most commonly accepted standardized tests are the Independent School Entrance Examination, or the ISEE, and the High School Placement Test, or HSPT, for Catholic schools. Another often recognized and accepted test is the Secondary School Aptitude Test, or the SSAT.
Entrance
On these exams, students can expect multiplechoice questions that test verbal, math, and reading comprehension skills and a portion that assesses writing ability (though not part of the HSPT). Policies vary according by test on taking practice tests and repeated test attempts. The test results often determine course placement, so more schools have begun to offer preparation test programs to better equip entering students for the real thing. Schools may have additional or different requirements for international students. ISEE Source: www.iseetest.org LOWER LEVEL FOR Candidates for grades five and six. MIDDLE AND UPPER LEVEL FOR Candidates for grades seven and eight (Middle); candidates for grades nine through 12 (Upper). HSPT Source: www.ststesting.com FOR Students in grade eight for placement in ninth grade. SSAT Source: www.ssat.org
The SSAT is a multiple-choice test designed for students in grades three through 11 and is administered on three levels: elementary, middle, and upper.
Exam 101
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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 21www.ParentsPress.com Woodside Priory School At Woodside Priory School, our mission is to assist all students in creating meaningful and balanced lives, developing as lifelong stewards, and productively serve a world in need of their gifts. Founded in 1957 by seven Benedictine Monks from Hungary 400 students in grades 6-12 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio Over $3.5 million awarded in need-based financial aid 14 countries represented in on-campus boarding program 12 different sports, 18 teams offered Over 30 clubs including MUN and Robotics Facts About Priory 302 Portola Rd Portola Valley, CA 94028 admissions@prioryca.org prioryca.org/admissions
START EARLY Do not wait until the night before the application is due to begin writing. Brainstorm and work out ideas with teachers, parents, or others early and give yourself time for revisions.
BE CONCRETE
BE REAL Don’t write what you think an admissions officer wants to hear—because you really have no idea. Write about what you know and what excites you.
PARENTS, THIS MUST BE YOUR CHILD’S WORK
If you are an aspiring writer, for example, ask the school if you can write in verse, instead of the usual narrative.
pplication essays provide ways for private school admissions officers to get to know students beyond their grades, test scores, and basic biographical information. They provide insight into a student’s personality and interests—to help determine if the school is the right fit for your child and vice versa. Aside from the interview, writing the essay can be one of the most stress-producing steps in the application process. These suggestions from private school organizations can break the task of writing the essay into manageable steps that guide your child to crafting a work that makes him stand out to admissions officers.
Tips for a Great Essay
A
Stay away from generalizations, such as “singing by myself in front of my school was challenging.” Instead, provide details or an example of how and why you were scared before that solo singing performance and felt triumphant afterwards.
Don’t write a two-sentence essay if the school asks for one page, but don’t write more than one page. And, don’t turn in a typed essay if the school wants it handwritten.
While, as parents, you can provide feedback and help with editing, let your child do all the writing. If you can’t help but get overly involved, consider asking a neutral third party—a teacher, another relative, or a professional consultant—to help your child edit her essay.
TELL THE SCHOOL WHAT IT WANTS TO KNOW Schools often provide an essay prompt, so you need to respond to it. That said, the prompts—such as “recount some activity or event that challenged you in a positive way”—usually allow the applicant lots of leeway to write about a range of topics.
READ THE DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY
TELL A STORY
While the essay should have correct spelling and grammar and be legible, it doesn’t have to follow the academic essay formula. A good strategy is to tell a story—even filled with dialogue or vivid description— to get your point across.
GET CREATIVE
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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 23www.ParentsPress.com 2086 Clarke Ave | East Palo Alto | www.lascuolasf.org/inquire/peninsula415-551-0000 Our students learn to seek out the answers to questions they ask themselves, balance what is known with their own curiosities about what is possible, resolve difficult problems and think creatively to wade through the tides of change ahead of them. Brain, m t heart. Families looking for a wholehearted approach to Pre-K to Grade 8 education, we’d love to meet you! Schedule your visit at st-andrews.org/parentsWholehearted learning in the heart of Silicon Valley.
• Talk about subjects or teachers you like: Help your child figure out certain coursework that has recently engaged him, such as a certain book in English class or a social studies field trip to see Egyptian mummies at a museum. Given that the interview is also a chance for you and your child to learn more about the school, help your child prepare to ask questions. Look at the school’s website or think back to visits and help him come up with a list of questions that reflects how the school might nurture his interests. “Will I be able to do dissections in sixth-grade biology?”
The structure of the interview also depends on the school and your child’s age. Typically, the applicant and her family come to the school to look around and talk with an admissions officer or other school staff. The staff might focus on talking with the parents, but with older children and high school students, an admissions officer might speak privately with the child in a formal or more casual situation.
24 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
Parents and students should always be honest, experts say. But that doesn’t mean you should accentuate your child’s weaknesses, provide too much information about family challenges, or bad-mouth your child’s current school, even if this current school environment is mostly negative and the reason he’s trying to change schools.
“Can I audition for school plays in ninth grade?”
Given that the interview is an important part of the application process, and in determining if this school is the best place to educate your child, here are some things you and your child should prepare for so the interview will go well, according to the National Association of Independent Schools and other private school organizations.
Interview Preparation
When students are old enough to be the key subject of interviews, they should be prepared to
answer typical questions, such as:
• Why do you want to come to this school? The school wants to find out if the child understands what makes the school unique and whether he sees it as a match for his own personality, academic strengths, interests, and aspirations. So, hopefully, during visits, or in talking to students and faculty, your child has encountered programs or a learning environment that excites him.
Instead, accentuate the positive: A child’s weakness or a family’s challenges are things he is work ing to overcome; or his current school simply isn’t the right fit for his unique needs and interests.
• Tell me about yourself: Help your child come up with an answer that doesn’t recite biographical facts but describes his interests and strengths in certain academic areas or extracurricular activities and allows him to talk up his accomplishments.
T
“What about your study trips overseas?”“What are different ways I can fulfill my community service requirements?” The admissions officers will likely see your child’s curiosity as evidence of his interest in coming to the school.
he idea of your child having to interview to gain admission to a private school sounds downright terrifying. But private school experts say you shouldn’t think of the interview as a high-stakes interrogation. Rather, think of the interview as a two-way conversation that helps everyone involved—school staff, parents, and child— determine if the school is the right fit for your child.
With younger kids, the school staff will mostly talk to the parents, asking them to describe their child and what they hope their child will gain by attending this school.
P: 650-543-4560 Where Dyslexic and 2e Children are FallNowEnrollingNurturedfor2022! Highly Trained, Collaborative Teachers Project-based SpecializedLargeStrengths-BasedCurriculumApproachMakerspaceTeachingMethods Grades1-8Grades1-8 www.AthenaAcademy.org/welcome J O I N O U R F A M I L Y . Develop holistic learning communities, which educate for li Educate for and act on behalf of justice and peace in the world Create faith based communi and commit ourselves to the service of that community SaintJulieBilliart EST 1851 NotreDame Elementary K 8 , C o E d u c a t i o n a l I n d e p e n d e n t C a t h o l i c S c h o o l w w w n d e o r g ( 6 5 0 ) 5 9 1 2 2 0 9 N o t r e D a m e E l e m e n t a r y
• After you and your child finish the visit, jot down your general impressions before leaving. Try to imagine your child in one of the classrooms, or walking the halls. How does that idea look and feel? Remember gut feelings can be important, too.
• General impressions count, but so do the details. Take note of what the grounds and classrooms are like, but also pay attention to specifics: are the bathrooms clean; do staff seemed organized and ready for your visit; what library, science, and technology resources does the school offer?
• Talk to as many teachers and students as possible. Find out about homework policies and workloads, the social environment, and opportunities to do arts, sports, and other nonacademic activities.
• Do some pre-visit research. Read up on the school’s history, educational philosophy, and ac complishments. Ask for information about studentteacher ratios, teacher experience, arts classes, sports, and other extracurricular activities, special programs for students needing academic support, and expectations for parental involvement. Decide ahead of time if there are specific classrooms, facilities, or departments that you or your child want to visit.
Make the Most of Your Campus Visit school lunch.
• If the school offers shadow-a-student day for interested students, your child has the opportunity to ask questions of potential schoolmates more freely than if you’re around.
26 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
• If possible, visit on a regular school day, arrange to observe a classroom, and stay to sample a
You’ve looked at the websites, glanced through the glossy brochures, and even heard friends talk glowingly—or not—about the private schools on your short list. Now it’s time to actually set foot on campus. More than anything else, visiting the school—seeing the classrooms, walking around the grounds, and talking to faculty and students—will give you and your child the best sense of whether this is the best environment for your child to learn and thrive.Because the visit is so crucial to deciding on your child’s school, you should make the most of the oppor tunity. Private school experts offer these suggestions for what to ask about, look for, and consider before, during, and after the visit.
• In the classrooms or on the playground, notice if the students look engaged and well-behaved, including when they transition from one activity or classroom to another. How do students interact with their teachers? Do the teachers seem cheerful and knowledgeable? How do the teachers manage the classrooms or handle discipline?
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 27www.ParentsPress.com The Four Anchor Points of the Odyssey Experience Rigorous Academic Challenge A World View of Community Expeditionary Learning and Leadership 201 Polhemus Road Odyssey School Climb on Today! LearningExpeditionary
• Boarding schools are also known to be quite innovative and to provide students with the latest technologies in order to improve the learning experience. This may translate into boarders’ higher acceptance by leading universities and better job opportunities later on.
• If not seeing your child for weeks at a time sounds a bit daunting look for boarding schools which offer a five day a week program to allow for students to spend weekends with their families. Consider a Boarding School?
Why
• Boarding Schools create a strong community of students, staff and teachers. With children socializing with a limited number of children their own age, around the clock, a strong sense of community is developed as well as lifelong friends. Peers encourage each other to try new sports, art, music and awaken interests not available at home. Students build strong connections to their roommates and teachers which builds learning behavior and students’ motivation. These connections often lead to a strong network of motivated people for the rest of their lives.
BUILD INDEPENDENCE, DISCIPLINE AND MATURITY
B oarding schools are a perfect option for many families, providing a home away from home that allows children to focus on their education as well as extracurricular activities such as sports or arts. Education may not be the main reason parents choose to send their kids to boarding school. Some want their children to have a religious base to their education. Others find sports academies which allow their child the ability to train and develop athletic skills while providing a strong college prep education. Some parents favor a specific educational philosophy that can only be found in a boarding school setting. Plus, as was experienced with how education has been affected by situations such as Covid-19, boarding schools can create a stability for students and parents.
INNOVATIVE TEACHING TECHNIQUES
WEEKENDS AT HOME
STRONG CONNECTIONS
• Boarding schools teach children to take care of themselves which turns them into an independent individual for life. Students at boarding schools learn to be self-reliant and responsible at an earlier age than conventional students. These students learn to follow and maintain a schedule, how to follow school rules and take responsibility for their actions, as well as, learn to make decisions and be better prepared for making difficult choices as they grow into adults.
28 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
• With class sizes at most boarding schools averaging around 10-12 students, there is an opportunity to explore more subjects and attend classes not normally offered in conventional schools. Boarding schools may offer exciting travel opportunities to study ecology, history, political science, or art to give students the advantage of seeing and living their studies. Boarding school have high standards when it comes to selecting teachers. Teachers are expected to create a classroom environment to stimulate discussion and promote student interest.
HIGH-QUALITY AND UNIQUE EDUCATION POSSIBILITIES
• Merit scholarships awarded by the school are rare and are usually reserved for students who have a special talent that the school is seeking, such as art, music, or academics. Generally, scholarships are based on financial need. They may be awarded once, annually, or as long as the student meets the scholarship criteria.
• Grants are the most common type of financial aid offered by private schools. They are awarded annually to students who demonstrate financial need, and students must re-apply each year. Grant money comes from the school’s budget and does not have to be paid back.
WHEN TO APPLY
• Scholarships from outside organizations are also rare, and often awarded by local chapters of national groups like the Rotary Club. Ask the school for a list of organizations that have provided scholarships to their students in the past, and check the list on parents.nais.org.
Sibling discounts are designed to help families with more than one child enrolled in the same school. Many schools are shrinking these discounts, or phasing them out altogether. Even so, it’s worth asking if this situation applies to you. Most families pay for tuition through a combination of these options. The school’s financial aid officer can help you create a financing plan that fits your family’s needs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and explore all the options available to you.
• Tuition loans are personal loans provided by a private lender. You must apply directly to the lender, and your loan amount and interest rate will depend on the lender’s credit requirements. Some use loans to pay for expenses not covered by a grant.
Every school has its own financial aid schedule, and the deadlines are different for schools with rolling admissions. In general, most financial aid applications are due in January or February. Check with your school of choice for the deadline. You will receive a financial aid decision shortly after your child is admitted to a particular school.
• Tuition Payment Plans allow you to make monthly payments rather than writing one or two large checks each year. Schools offer payment plans through a third-party financial services company, which charges a relatively small fee.•
Each scholarship program will have its own eligibility rules, application, and deadlines.
Financial Assistance: Basics You Need to Know
To determine your eligibility for financial aid, you must submit an application form and financial statements. There is no income limit that automatically makes your family ineligible for financial aid. Financial aid officers take into account your income, assets, and expenses, including educational costs for other children.
Reprinted with permission from the National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org.
TYPES OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
E very private school has its own policies about who receives financial assistance, what types of assistance are awarded, and how much assistance a particular family will receive. In most cases, the financial aid office cannot tell you if your family will qualify for financial aid until you submit an application that allows the school to evaluate your unique situation.
HOW SCHOOLS DETERMINE ELIGIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL AID
Bottom line: If you feel your family cannot afford to pay the full cost, regardless of your income, it’s worth the effort to submit a financial aid application.
Myths About Financial Assistance
MYTH: An independent school education is out of reach for all but wealthy families.
REALITY: How much assistance you receive may vary a lot from school to school. The amount a school can offer depends on factors such as the size of its endowment, its tuition costs, and its philosophy about providing aid. If your decision to send your child to an independent school depends on getting some financial help, it pays to apply for aid at more than one school.
30 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com
REALITY: The school is your very best source of realistic information about the procedures and timelines for getting aid and of advice about the types of financial assistance available. The members of the financial aid staff want you to turn to them for help. Really.
REALITY: Often the deadlines are not the same. Check with each school (the deadlines are usually on the school’s website), and be sure to keep track of what you must do when. Do not wait to begin the financial aid process until after you receive an admission decision. It pays to complete both admission and financial aid applications at the same time, even if they’re due on different dates; plus many schools require that they be done at the same time.
MYTH: The financial aid application process is complicated.
Reprinted with permission from the National As sociation of Independent Schools, www.nais.org.
MYTH: If we tell the school our family needs financial aid, this might hurt our child’s chances of being REALITY:admitted. The typical school will not reject a qualified student’s admission application because the child is applying for financial aid. That said: Admission is not a guarantee that the student’s family will receive financial aid. The amount of aid depends on the family’s eligibility and the funds the school has available.
MYTH: All schools our child applies to will offer our family the same financial aid package.
REALITY: There’s some truth to this one, but schools’ financial aid offices are working hard to make the process as clear and convenient as possible. More than 2,100 schools use SSS, School and Student Services by NAIS, to help them make financial aid decisions. This means you may only have to fill out one form to apply for financial aid at several schools. The form and instructions are avail able online. In addition, many schools offer financial aid workshops, and staffers welcome your calls any time you have questions.
REALITY: Tuition can be expensive. But hundreds of private schools offer financial assistance to make sure that the students they’ve admitted have a realistic chance to enroll, no matter what their families’ financial status.
MYTH: It’s too intimidating to talk to the school about our private financial matters.
MYTH: The deadlines for admission and financial aid are the same.
• Consider other schools.
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 31www.ParentsPress.com
IF YOU ARE NOT SURE
• Ask the school for feedback about what factors made the difference. Try to approach the issue in a nonjudgmental way; tell the admissions staff you want to get information that can help your child do better in the future.
IF YOU’RE REJECTED
• Let all schools where you were admitted know of your final decision so they can contact other families on their wait list.
The Acceptance and Decision
• Ask to talk to some teachers.
• Encourage your child to talk to other students.
he application is completed, interviews and shadow days all done—all that’s left is waiting for the acceptance letter (or email) and then the big decision. Usually, acceptance (or rejection or waitlist) notifications go out on a Friday in mid-March, and families then have seven days to decide where their child will attend. So how to make the decision?
When you learn about your child’s acceptance, you will also learn about financial assistance awards. If the grant you receive does not meet your needs, or if you are not awarded any financial assitance, contact the school’s financial assitance officer to learn about other options.
• If you’re certain about the school, say yes—but feel free to take the full seven days to sit with the decision to make sure it feels right.
• Discuss the options as a family.
• Call the school right away and let admissions officials know that you are very interested. Stay in touch with them throughout the summer. Some times children can be accepted off the waitlist just days before school begins.
IF YOU’RE WAITLISTED
The following are tips on choosing a school from the National Association of Independent Schools.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE ACCEPTED
T
• Talk to graduates or current families of the school—especially any who have come from your child’s current school.
• Make a pro and con list for each possible school.
DECIDING ON A SCHOOL
ONCE YOU DECIDE
• Be sure to contact the school you choose by the reply deadline.
• Revisit your notes from tours and open houses. Follow your heart. Revisit your wish list to make sure you’ve fulfilled your priorities. Be sure that your child will thrive in the school community you choose.
• Return your signed enrollment contract and tuition deposit.
• Consider a second visit to the school; have your child do a shadow day if she hasn’t already.
32 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Fearless, We EXCELLENCE Find out more at
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 33www.ParentsPress.com We Pursue EXCELLENCE at shcp.edu/visit
4. Ask around.
5. Tour top choices. Arrange to take a tour or go to an open house to learn about the school philosophy and the admissions process. Most schools prefer for you to pre-register for these. Have your list of questions ready (see page 20 for Questions to Ask) and observe. Look for signs that the preschool is well run. Also, this is a time that the preschool uses to determine which families will be a good fit for their program.
Before you apply, find out the preschool’s admissions schedule and how many openings they will have and how many spots will be reserved for siblings of families already enrolled. If you are concerned that your top choice or choices have way more applicants than spots it would be a wise idea to apply to more than one preschool even though there may be an application fee.
Your 7 Step Approach www.ParentsPress.com34 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools
34 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Perfect Preschool
1. Start Early. It takes time to research different styles of preschools and become familiar with common terms used in preschools. Many parents start this process a year ahead of time, some parents even start while pregnant! Children usually attend preschool for two to three years between the ages of 2.5 and 5 years.
2. Determine what criteria is most important for your child and family. Is it location, faith, type of program offered, language immersion, specialneeds options, year-round program, extended hours, cost? What are the most important factors and options? Rate these so you have a clear picture of where and what programs to focus on and what is the best fit for your child.
How to Find the
Talk to other parents in your area to see what programs they were part of, and if they would recommend them. Find out what they liked most and least about the school. How long did their child attend? Did they experience any teacher turnover? What was the culture like? How did they handle sick days, potty training and behavioral issues? How involved were the parents in the school? Are the parents and children still in contact with others from the preschool?
3. Utilize local parenting resources. Local parenting magazines and websites, like Parents’ Press, offer lots of preschool information and open house announcements. These will help you to become familiar with what preschools are available in your area and the program options being offered to help with your selection process. Visit preschool websites that look interesting to find out admissions information. More information can also be found at www.ParentsPress.com
7. Apply to your top choice. You have done your research, established your criteria and taken the tour, now is time to apply to your top choice. Some preschools have ongoing enrollment but most follow the school year format. Acceptance letters go out in the spring for the following fall. Find out from the preschool when you can expect to hear from them, one way or another. It is okay to be persistent and let them know you and your family are interested, but don’t be a pest. If your child is waitlisted get specifics from the preschool. What number on the wait list is your child and does the preschool have a commitment from all returning families? If the school is accepting a total of 15 new children and you are way down on the wait list, it is time to consider another option.
6. Contact the preschool.
Featured Profiles
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 35www.ParentsPress.com
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED to Private Schools
36 Guide
Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory is a Lasallian Vincentian Catholic, college preparatory high school located in the heart of San Francisco’s cultural center. We are dedicated to the intellectual and academic excellence of our students, and we strive to develop the unique talents and passions of each individual. Our devotion is illustrated in our enthusiastic and highly educated teachers, commitment to service and social justice, innovative curriculum and cutting-edge classroom technology. SHC Alumni are accepted into hundreds of colleges across the country, including all of US News & World Report’s Top 10 National Universities. At SHC, academic excellence is not only measured in the range and quality of our courses, but in our students’ curiosity, drive and desire to learn. We challenge our students to stretch themselves, to experience and learn as much as they can, to honor their passions and develop their talents, to generously share those talents, to become their best selves. We believe that academic, intellectual, emotional, personal and creative development invigorates the whole student. Our cocurricular programs are essential, not extra, elements to the student experience at SHC. Our students excel on the field, onstage and as leaders in our community, just as they do in the classroom. Our state-ofthe-art facilities allow students to engage in a collaborative learning experience, and our successful Bring Your Own Device program gives students the autonomy to use the tools most relevant to them in a digitally diverse and everchanging world. 1055 Ellis St. | San Francisco, CA 94109 | 415.775.6626 shcp.edu
Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory
Students and their families choose SHC for the strength of our academics, our diverse array of cocurricular opportunities, and for the warmth of our inclusive and nurturing community. To schedule a tour, contact Director of Admissions Tim Burke ’70 at tburke@shcp.edu or 415.775.6626 ext. 729.
Bellarmine PreparatoryCollege
Bellarmine College Prep, a Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition, is a diverse and inclusive community of students, Jesuits, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and friends, drawn together by God’s grace to form men for and with others who live a faith that does justice. We challenge young men to become contemplatives in action: young men who know they are loved by God and, as a response, discern how best to put their talents at the service of others. We develop the whole person through a rigorous and holistic curriculum, expansive opportunities beyond the classroom, and a vibrant spiritual formation program. We cherish our diversity as we educate each student to see all people as created in God’s image and as unique expressions of the Divine. Bellarmine cherishes its diversity and strives to educate each student to accept that all persons are created in God's image and are unique expressions of the Divine. Our Diversity Program is based on the core Ignatian value of “Seeing God in All People.” Students at Bellarmine reflect a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences and faith traditions— yet students embrace each other as brothers and love one another as members of God’s family. Our diversity inspires the men and women of our community to create a loving and nurturing environment where each student's talents, abilities, and desires can reach their highest expression. We believe exposing students to an environment rich in difference offers the student a capacity to engage in a loving dialogue with the world upon graduation. Our hope is that this dialogue will build a more just and faith-filled world. The Diversity Office centers its programming on eight types of diversity, Race / Ethnicity, Religion, Gender, Age, Ability / Disability, Sexual Orientation, Geography, and Socio-economic Status. Our approach is to focus on students' awareness of their own identity and experiences and then explore how these insights translate to their perception of others. We look forward to meeting you! bcp.org/admissions 960 W Hedding Street | San Jose, CA 95126 | 408-294-9224 www.bcp.org
ParentsPress.com 37 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
At Sand Hill School, your child comes first. Period. Visit www.sandhillschool.org to arrange a visit. I look forward to meeting you soon. Best from, Chris Harris, Chief Schools Officer at CHC
place like Sand Hill School. Celebrating ten years of caring about children and families. Ten years of providing best-in-class programs delivered by teams of expert teachers and clinicians using the most effective teaching methods available. Ten years with a laser-focus on children in grades 2-8 with language-based learning differences, school-based anxiety and attention and social challenges. Ten years of believing in the promise and potential of all kids. The result? Students build confidence and acquire the skills and resilience they need for home, school and life. Small classes integrate social, emotional, academic and physical learning and include reading, math, PE, visual and performing arts, science, history and social studies. When it’s time to transition back to a more typical school environment, we support families with the transition process.
Sand
38 Guide to Private
650 Clark Way | Palo Alto, CA 94304 | 650-688-3605 www.sandhillschool.org
“Sand Hill School changed my life. They had me set high goals and did not allow me to give up. They had me push on. It was really life changing because now I know I can succeed.”
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED Schools Hill School atThere’sCHCjustno
THINKING SKILLS Challenger School teaches students early on that they are responsible for their own learning and for their successes. Challenger’s emphasis on independent reasoning skills–so rarely practiced in today’s world–results in their students’ extraordinary academic performance.
Challenger School offers preschool through eighth grade and operates a total of 27 campuses in five western states. For a location near you, visit ChallengerSchool.com.
Our mission is to prepare children to become selfreliant, productive individuals; to teach them to think, speak, and write with clarity, precision, and independence; to lead them to recognize and value their individuality and unalienable rights; and to inspire them to embrace challenge and find joy and self-worth through achievement.
Ten Bay Area www.challengerschool.com/Locations
Challenger School
BREATHTAKING RESULTS
POISE AND CONFIDENCE Challenger students regularly speak and perform before their peers, teachers, and parents from preschool on. Challenger graduates often point to these experiences as the basis for success in college and the workplace.
ParentsPress.com 39 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
IN 1960, WHILE TEACHING In a public school, Challenger School founder and CEO Barbara Baker became alarmed that her first grade students had received no academics in kindergarten, wasting the best years for establishing a foundation for learning. Barbara decided to leave the comfort of the public schools and started her own preschool where she could teach phonics to children before they went to public school. “I figured that if they learned phonics in preschool, no one could take that away from them.” In Barbara’s first class, there were only six paying students. Two years later the tiny preschool had grown to 100 half-day preschool students with 100 students waiting for admission. Today, Challenger School educates more than 10,000 students annually.
Challenger students achieve scores on average well above the 90th percentile on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). This means that Challenger’s average student outperforms nine out of ten students who take that test.
For the convenience of our many families on the Peninsula we have added a bus service to Harker from Portola Valley and Los Altos.
40 Guide to Private Schools The Harker School Harker
The Harker School | San Jose, CA | K-12 I Preschool | Summer | www.harker.org
Service
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED is a community of dedicated, passionate learners committed to celebrating a diverse community of students, and fostering an inspiring space for all. Our goal (and greatest joy) is to help all students uncover their unique gifts through our deep and varied offerings and inspiring faculty. With more than 125 years of experience in bringing out the best in children, we are dedicated to continuing that legacy of excellence.
New! Peninsula Shuttle
Kindness, respect, honesty, integrity and personal accountability have been in the school’s DNA since its founding. Community service, character development curriculum, and our honor code all encourage, develop and reinforce these important Manyqualities.things make Harker special, however small class sizes and our attention to each child’s journey is especially unique. Beginning in the lower school, and continuing throughout each student’s Harker journey, we carefully evaluate the course placement that best meets a student’s talents and interests to ensure that each is challenged, encouraged, engaged and inspired to be their personal and academic best. A vital part of that process involves the offering of extensive curricular and extracurricular offerings to help students discover and nurture talents they may not otherwise have known they have. We do this through our deep and varied offerings and through our incredible and inspiring faculty, for whom we search nationwide. Many hold advanced degrees, and all are passionate about teaching and focused on individual student success.
Harker is a supportive, safe, fun and nurturing place where parents, faculty, staff, students and alumni form a close-knit community through events, traditions and our common mission. Our students leave Harker uncommonly prepared for college and ready to make a difference in the world. Educating more than 2,000 students TK-grade 12, Harker is the largest independent school of its kind in California, serving families of preschool, elementary, middle and high school-aged children, with each division on its own San Jose campus.
K-12 College Prep | San Jose, CA | 408.249.2510 www.harker.org
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OurEducation!Mission: Charles Armstrong School unlocks the unique potential of students with dyslexia and related learning differences, changing the trajectory of their lives Our Values: We are student-centered. Our instructional approach embraces neuroand celebrate individual strengths and We cultivate self-confidence and the joy of learning. We grow together. Our highly-trained faculty foster continuous student growth within a supportive environment. We educate and actively partner with families. We honor community. Our students’ shared experience cultivates a sense of belonging. Our families, faculty, and staff develop meaningful, lasting relationships. meet students where they are and provide: A rich academic curriculum safe learning environment and systematic instructions paced lessons Multi-sensory and mult-model learning methods Movement, mindfulness and brain boosts throughout the day Integrated social emotional learning 1405 Solana Drive | Belmont, California 94002 | 650-592-7570 www.charlesarmstrong.org
50 Years of Transformational
SchoolProvidingOver
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• A
• Structured
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Armstrong At A Glance: Number of Students: 240 Student to Teacher Ratio: 4.5 to 1 Students per Classroom: Lower School 12-18; Middle School 17-19 Grade Levels: 2nd - 8th
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ParentsPress.com 41 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
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• Visit Armstrong: Register on our website to attend a Virtual Information Night or schedule a Virtual Tour.
• Appropriately
• And believe in a positive, collaborative partnership with families
Founded in 1968, with families attending from across the Bay Accreditations:area WASC accreditation and CAIS provisional accreditation Leader in the field of dyslexia education, with a proven and long-standing track record of teaching students with language-based learning differences in ways they learn best.
•talents.
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•diversity.Wenurture
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As a member of a Tri-School program with Junipero Serra High School and Mercy High School Burlingame, NDB offers students opportunities for a co-educational experience in the areas of academics, performing arts, and student activities. The School is fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). We look forward to meeting you! 1540 Ralston Avenue | Belmont, CA 94002 | 650-595-9505 www.ndhsb.org
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED Guide to Private Schools
Notre Dame Belmont provides a true sense of community where girls will discover their interests and talents, and have the freedom to be their authentic selves. We are a caring and compassionate community committed to developing responsible young women of active faith, strong intellect, and Christian leadership. Education is not simply about educating a mind, but about forming a human spirit.
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Notre Dame Belmont is an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SNDdeN), dedicated to the educational mission of St. Julie Billiart. The School was founded in 1851 and the first students were enrolled at the Belmont campus in 1923. NDB is located in the heart of Silicon Valley on over 10 acres in Belmont, California, a professional suburban community located between San Francisco and San Jose.
Notre Dame Belmont provides an educational foundation that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and social awareness. Reflecting the vision of St. Julie Billiart and her pioneer Sisters, NDB continues to be a special place for students to learn, grow, and prepare for a life of commitment and purpose. Although the School’s entrepreneurial and indefatigable foundress began teaching young women “what they need to know for life” during the French Revolution, her spirit lives on as a timely inspiration today for the young women of Notre Dame Belmont, in the heart of Silicon Valley, where they pursue their dreams of becoming innovative change agents and leaders, with a commitment to social Justice.
Notre Dame Belmont
Notre Dame Belmont is located in the heart of the Peninsula and is the premier choice for an all-girls, faith-based education. Knowing how girls learn best, Notre Dame Belmont is dedicated to educating and empowering girls to become women of vision!
COMMUNITY Serendipity School supports effort and achievement by empowering students and giving them tools for academic success. Serendipity helps students to grow and learn with confidence and enthusiasm. Serendipity School students are empowered to experiment, assume academic risk, and take an interest in and responsibility for the world around them. “Serendipity finds the little thing that makes each child unique and expounds upon that. It creates children who are confident, self-aware, and ready to face the world.”
All Serendipity students are encouraged to meet challenges and strive for excellence.
www.serendipityschool.com/
Parent Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary School Education
Serendipity School’s rich and multifaceted programs promote each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and academic development in positive ways designed to further curiosity and creativity. Our programs encompass each child’s participation, interest, enthusiasm, and ideas.
Serendipity School
ParentsPress.com 43 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
Serendipity School
DISCOVERY Serendipity School believes in providing an educational experience that treats children as individuals and engages students throughout the learning process. Our highly skilled and trained San Mateo and Belmont • CA 650-574-7400 (Preschool) 650-596-9100 (Kindergarten and Elementary)
educators teach to the whole child, and implement a differentiated curriculum that is both diverse and dynamic.
INDIVIDUALITY
Serendipity: n. The gift of discovering valuable or pleasant things that are not looked for Serendipity School: A setting for unexpected and exciting learning experiences that are sparked by discovery, guided by individuality, and supported by Serendipitycommunity School is a rare and remarkable place: an encouraging, engaging, and empowering learning community where academic and personal discovery is prized, where the path to excellence is an individual adventure. A unique educational institution dedicated to progressive education, active and hands-on learning, differentiated instruction, and teaching to the whole child, Serendipity School is committed to the process and journey of learning. The result is a community of students who grow to be lifelong, joyful, and invested learners.
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The King's Academy
www.stratfordschools.comArea
Attend one of TKA's Open Houses: Saturday, October 23 & December 4, 11:00 a.m. Please RSVP at www.tka.org/openhouse
At Stratford, high expectations yield extraordinary results. We start early with an intentionally balanced curriculum that challenges students and accelerates achievement. Our ever-evolving, STEAMbased (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum ensures students develop the diverse set of problem-solving skills and creative talents they’ll need in today’s world. Our passionate teachers cultivate a nurturing and fun classroom environment, where children feel safe and eager to try new things. Beyond the classroom, we help students discover and define their passions through a variety of extracurricular activities, personal development, and enrichment. This carefully orchestrated approach prepares students to become tomorrow’s creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators, and confident, insightful leaders. Learn more by visiting www.stratfordschools.com!
Multiple Locations Throughout the Bay
When you embrace social and emotional development, the extraordinary happens.
Discover Stratford School
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED Guide to Private Schools
Learn how TKA is preparing students for college, life, service and eternity. * TKA students have built nearly 400 homes in Tecate, Mexico.
CHRIST-CENTERED COLLEGE PREPARATORY Junior and Senior High School, Grades 6-12
TKA inspires academic excellence, servant leadership, and enduring relationships. At TKA, students graduate with a sense of belonging, a sense of purpose, and a sense of significance. With a low teacher:student ratio, students receive individual attention and encouragement to do their best. Our 1:1 technology program and collaborative classroom environment ensures students are responsible digital and global citizens with 21st century literacy skills. Through TKA’s Spiritual Life program and Service Trips, students grow in their faith and make a difference to others. TKA offers a stellar Visual and Performing Arts program known throughout the Bay Area and fields over 50 competitive athletic teams.
562 N. Britton Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 408-481-990094085www.tka.org
Trinity’s size creates the rare opportunity for classes and educators to meet the needs of students as individuals. Trinity is an embracing environment for every student: it’s a place for the introspective and shy as much as it is a place for the spirited and inquisitive.
ParentsPress.com 45 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
YOUR CHILD: A MOTIVATED, CONFIDENT, COMPASSIONATE LEARNER. Trinity School is leading education in the Bay Area with a proven pathway for critical thinking and academic success.
actively participate with others through service for positive change.
TO LEARN ABOUT THE WORLD, WE SAY ENGAGE WITH IT. Students participate in community problem solving. They use human-centered design to 2650 Sand Hill Road | Menlo Park, CA 94025 | 650-854-0288 www.trinity-mp.org
PERSONALIZED ATTENTION RESULTS IN PERSONALIZED SUCCESS.
Trinity School
With a firm foundation, we can change the world. Trinity School is where students live academic success, openness, individual learning, and realworld problem solving every day.
EXPLORE FAITH THROUGH INQUIRY. Episcopal values cultivate the mind and spiritual inquiry. Students explore their own beliefs and value the diversity of faiths around them.
PREPARED FOR NOW, READY FOR WHAT'S NEXT Families and students create their own next steps based on the personal strengths and passions of each student—with the knowledge that Trinity has prepared them for anything.
Synapse School 3375 Edison Way Menlo Park, CA www.synapseschool.org650-294-457094025
An independent elementary and middle school in Menlo Park, CA, Synapse offers an innovative academic curriculum fully integrated with socialemotional learning (SEL).
We are curious, innovative, imaginative, creative, and we have fun!
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
Saint Andrew’s is a community of learners committed to cultivating student happiness, academic achievement, and character. Our complete, balanced, and inspiring approach ensures that our graduates are exceptionally good people who are exceptionally well-prepared to thrive in high school, college, and life. We believe school should be the place where children launch an unstoppable love of learning that sticks with them. Masterful educators not only design captivating learning experiences. They ensure each child feels individually known, unconditionally loved, and deeply valued as an essential member of our warm, inclusive community.
Located in Saratoga, Saint Andrew’s Episcopal School is an independent day school for Pre-Kindergarten (4 years old) through 8th grade students.
46 Guide to Private Schools
Adding Transitional Kindergarten Fall 2022
Synapse's curriculum and school life builds on the foundation of our mission of Educating a Community of Change Makers. The program is carefully designed as a model school to demonstrate the power of blending emotional intelligence training with leading-edge instruction (brain-based, constructivist, projectbased learning in school-wide themes).
Saint Andrew’s Episcopal School 13601 Saratoga Avenue Saratoga, California 95070 www.st-andrews.org408-867-3785
Individualization and collaboration are hallmarks of our approach with mastery learning at the core of our educational model.
Woodside Priory School
We offer flexible start dates for:
Woodside Priory School's mission is to assist all students in creating meaningful and balanced lives, developing as lifelong learners and stewards, and productively serving a world in need of their gifts. Throughout their time at Priory, our students are encouraged to try new activities while simultaneously engaging with cherished ones. Anchored by our Benedictine values of Community, Hospitality, Individuality, Integrity, and Spirituality, our students are engaged with vigor and purpose.
School for Independent Learners (SIL)
School for Independent Learners (SIL) is a nurturing, private high school for grades 8-12 featuring 1:1 personalized instruction. SIL is WASC-accredited and offer a full host of UC-approved courses, including Honors and Advanced Placement, built and customized by our dedicated faculty (average tenure 8+ years).
302 Portola Road
www.prioryca.org650-851-822194028
• Tutoring and test prep in all A-G subjects. For more information about how our customized 1:1 learning strategies can position your student for success, go to http://www.sileducation.org.
• Dual enrollment/part-time enrollment for credit transfer to another school of record;
Portola Valley, CA
Woodside Priory School is a co-educational, college preparatory Catholic Benedictine school. Serving grades 6 through 12 and with a student population of around 400 students, we also offer a boarding option for our upper school.
923 N San Antonio Road Los Altos, California 94022
www.sileducation.org650-941-4350
• Full-time 1:1 or small group classes;
ParentsPress.com 47 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
48 Guide to
At Peninsula School, we believe that every child is naturally curious, and that each school day should be engaging, meaningful, and joyful. For nearly 100 years, Peninsula School has embraced this belief by supporting children to contribute to the world as confident and creative learners, ethical citizens, and compassionate leaders. As you walk among the classrooms and play spaces on our well-loved 6 acres, it’s easy to observe why our nursery through 8th grade students are excited to attend Peninsula School each Pleaseday.visit our website for more information on our program and philosophy, and learn about and register for admissions events for the 2022-2023 school year. We look forward to getting to know you! Peninsula School 920 Peninsula Way Menlo Park, CA www.peninsulaschool.org650-325-158494025
Athena Academy is a non-profit private school devoted to educating dyslexic and twice exceptional children, grades 1 - 8. Located on a spacious campus in Palo Alto, Athena Academy's individualized education program teaches to our creative, and capable students' strengths while helping them overcome their obstacles. Our teachers design and bring to life project-based lessons that incorporate the findings of innovative neuroscience and educational research. Social Emotional Learning is an important part of our program and is integrated into the classes throughout the day. Our talented teachers receive in-depth training and work with the students on understanding the way their brains work, teaching our students to use their visual-spatial strengths when learning. Dyslexic children are capable of great academic success when taught the way they are meant to learn. We focus on bringing our students up to and above their grade level in all core subjects. Our program offers advanced subjects, challenging project-based learning and an individualized approach to create a space where learning becomes joyful and success becomes possible.
Athena Academy 525 San Antonio Avenue Palo Alto, CA www.athenaacademy.org650.543.456094306
PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED Private Schools
La Scuola Palo Alto, CA
ParentsPress.com 49 PROFILESPRESCHOOL&SCHOOLFEATURED
PeninsulaInternational 2086 Clarke Avenue East
Situated on an idyllic, green, 3.5 acre campus in San Mateo, Odyssey’s “Base Camp” provides a variety of learning spaces both indoors and outdoors. The entire school and faculty are essential team members on expeditions that transport students away from Base Camp to various places that Odyssians call "Advanced Base Camp" such as the California Redwoods, the Sierra Mountains, the Channel Islands, and Mt. Fuji in Japan, in order to implement the philosophies and educational objectives of our expeditionary learning program.
Odyssey is an independent, coeducational day school serving students in grades 6 through 8. Odyssey School is fully accredited by the California Association of Independent School (CAIS). Odyssey offers students a robust and challenging academic program as well as a unique and varied expeditionary learning program. We are small by design - enrollment is limited to about 50 students. Our high staff-to-student ratio allows us to mentor each student and to fully support their growth, academic and personal, as students forge their way through the critical middle school years.
201 Polhemus Road San
Odyssey School Mateo, California 94402 www.odyssey-school.org650-548-1500
www.lascuolasf.org/inquire/peninsula415-551-000094303
The world has changed and it’s time for education to catch up. That’s why, every day, it’s the students at La Scuola who ask the provocative questions… they lead—and embrace—their own ability to learn across languages, across cultures, and across subjects. Because when children are open to the world and protagonists in their own education, there’s no limit to their ability to learn, find beauty in life, and discover extraordinary answers.
50 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Featured Preschools Featured Preschools Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care Monthly NotesAccreditedTuitionFacility? Notes LittleBelmontHands 1300 Fifth Avenue Belmont • www.littlehands.org650-595-4830 6 mos - 4 yrs Up to 120 children 9:00 am - 11:30 am AccreditedFAVariesAvailable Special Needs Offered Meals SummerProvidedPrograms LearningBurlingameLinksBurlingame 1764 Marco Polo Way Burlingame • www.learninglinks.org650-259-8544 2 - 5 yrs 8:30 am - 5:30 pm FAVariesAvailable Education Based ActionCampbellDay|Primary Plus 1125 West Campbell Avenue Campbell • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-379-3184 Birth - 5 yrs Independent400 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Daly City Hope Lutheran Day School 55 San Fernando Way Daly City • www.hopedayschool.com650-991-4673 2 - 5 Lutheranyrs FA$1,340Available Education Based Young World Preschool 699 Serramonte Boulevard Daly City • www.youngworldpreschool.org650-994-6599 2 mos - 6 yrs FAVariesAvailable Education Based East Palo Alto La Scuola International Peninsula pgs. 23, 49 2086 Clarke Avenue East Palo Alto • 415-551-0000 peninsulawww.lascuolasf.org/inquire/ PS - Grade 1 $29,850 - $38,850 Italianannual Los StratfordGatosSchool pgs. 21, 44 220 Kensington Way Los Gatos • 408-371-3020 www.stratfordlosgatos.com PS - Grade 4 Varies Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center Menlo Park Building Kidz of Menlo Park 490 Willow Road Menlo Park • www.buildingkidzschool.com650-324-3668 2 - 6 yrs Up to 72 children 7:30 am - 5:30 pm $2,000 Before/After School Care Meals SummerProvidedPrograms Peninsula School pg. 48 920 Peninsula Way Menlo Park • 650-325-1584 www.peninsulaschool.org 3yrs-8th Gr All 2526:1Gender Non SpanishDenominational Nursery $18,900 K-8 $26,500 FA Available
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 51 PRESCHOOLSFEATUREDFeatured Preschools Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care Monthly NotesAccreditedTuitionFacility? Notes Trinity School pgs. 13, 45 300 Ravenswood Avenue Menlo Park • 650-854-0288 www.trinity-mp.org PS-Grade 5 All 1597:1Gender SpanishEpiscopal PS: $23,400 - $29,950 K-5 $35,800 FA Available University Heights Montessori Children’s Center 2066 Avy Avenue Menlo Park • www.uhmcc.com650-854-6993 2 - 6 7:45Montessoriyrsam-5:30 pm FAVariesAvailable MillbraeMillbraeNursery School 86 Center Street Milbrae • www.littlehands.org650-589-3028 2 -5 yrs Up to 60 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm $275Accredited$1,490 Before/After School Care Special Needs Offered Meals SummerProvidedPrograms StratfordMilpitasSchool pgs. 21, 44 341 Great Mall Pkwy Milpitas • 408-262-6200 www.stratfordmilpitas.com PS - Grade 8 Varies Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center Mountain View Action Day | Primary Plus 333 Eunice Avenue Mountain View • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com650-967-3780 Birth - 5 yrs Independent167 AfterFA$2,755AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms German International School of Silicon Valley 310 Easy Street Mountain View • www.gissv.org/preschool-kindergarten650-254-0748 3 - 5 yrs Up to 150 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm $1,100 - $2,700 FA Available Before/After School Care Meals SummerProvidedPrograms Learning Links Mountain View 260 Escuela Avenue Mountain View • www.learninglinks.org650-938-2252 2 - 5 yrs 8:30 am - 5:30 pm FAVariesAvailable Education Based Palo ChallengerAltoSchool - Middlefield pgs. 2, 39 3880 Middlefield Road Palo Alto • 650-213-8245 middlefieldcampus/california/palo-alto/www.challengerschool.com/ AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 - $18,850 Learning Links Palo Alto 3864 Middlefield Road Palo Alto • www.learninglinks.org650-618-3342 2 - 5 yrs 8:30 am - 5:30 pm FAVariesAvailable Education Based Stratford School pgs. 21, 44 870 North California Avenue Palo Alto • 650-493-1151 www.stratfordpaloalto.com PS - Grade 8 Varies Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com52 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools PRESCHOOLSFEATURED Featured Preschools Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care Monthly NotesAccreditedTuitionFacility? Notes San HighlandsBrunoChristian Schools 1900 Monterey Drive San Bruno • www.school.highlands.us/preschool650-873-4090 18 mos - 8 yrs Varies Center Stratford School pgs. 21, 44 2322 Crestmoor Drive San Bruno • 650-837-9222 www.stratfordsanbruno.com PSVariesElem Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center San Jose Action Day | Primary Plus 5845 Allen Avenue San Jose • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-629-6020 Birth - 5 yrs Independent342 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Action Day | Primary Plus 3500 Amber Drive San Jose • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-248-2464 2 - 4.5 yrs Independent60 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Action Day | Primary Plus 2148 Lincoln Avenue San Jose • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-266-8952 Birth - 5 yrs Independent242 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Action Day | Primary Plus 3030 Moorpark Avenue San Jose • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-247-6972 Birth - 5 yrs Independent330 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Action Day | Primary Plus 801 Hibiscus Lane San Jose • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-985-5998 Birth - 5 yrs Independent255 AfterFA$2,755AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms KSS Immersion Preschools, pgs. 9, 33 540 Sands Dr. San Jose • www.ksspreschool.com877-442-2555 2 yr - 6 Up to 48 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm $815Education$1,935Based Center Shu Ren International School, p. 11, 35 540 Sands Dr, Bldg B San Jose • www.shurenschool.com408-508-6259 PS to G5 Up to 103 children 7:30 am - 6:00pm EducationAccredited$2,535Based SummerCenter Programs Open to the Public Stratford School Almaden pgs. 21, 44 5200 Dent Avenue San Jose • 408-617-8356 www.stratfordalmaden.com 2.5 yr - PreK sessionsHalf-dayNonVariesDenominationalandfull-day EducationAccreditedVariesBased Center Stratford School pgs. 21, 44 6670 San Anselmo Way San Jose • 408-363-2130 www.stratfordsanjose.com PSVariesElem Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center San Mateo
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 53 PRESCHOOLSFEATUREDFeatured Preschools Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care Monthly NotesAccreditedTuitionFacility? Notes Kinder Academy Montessori 300 E. Santa Inez Avenue San Mateo • www.kinderacademymontessori.net650-347-0463 2.5 - 6 yrs FAVariesAvailable Summer Programs Serendipity Preschool pgs. 7, 43 3172 Clearview Way San Mateo • www.serendipityschool.com/650-574-7400 2 - 5 yrs Up to 120 children 8:00 am - 5:00 pm FA$2,530Available EducationCenter Based Santa Clara Action Day | Primary Plus 2001 Pruneridge Avenue Santa Clara • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-244-2909 2 - 5 yrs Independent68 AfterFA$2,084AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Stratford School Pomeroy pgs. 21, 44 890 Pomeroy Avenue Santa Clara • 408-244-4073 comwww.stratfordsantaclarapomeroy. PSVariesElem Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center Stratford School Winchester pgs. 21, 44 400 N. Winchester Boulevard Santa Clara • 408-244-2121 comwww.stratfordsantaclarawinchester. PS - Grade 2 Varies Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center ActionSaratogaDay|Primary Plus 18720 Bucknall Road Saratoga • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-370-0357 Birth - 5 yrs Independent361 AfterFA$2,393AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms Action Day Primary Plus University 13560 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road Saratoga • www.actiondayprimaryplus.com408-867-4515 2 - 5 yrs Independent44 AfterFA$2,084AvailableSchool Care Avail Education Based DiapersCenter SummerAcceptedPrograms StratfordSunnyvaleSchool Washington Park pgs. 21, 44 820 West McKinley Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-737-1500 comwww.stratfordsunnyvalewashpark. PSVariesElem Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center Stratford School De Anza Park pgs. 21, 44 1196 Lime Drive Sunnyvale • 408-732-4424 www.stratfordsunnyvaledeanza.com PSVariesElem Varies by EducationAccreditedageBased Center
54 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Featured Private Day School Listings CharlesBelmontArmstrong School (see pgs. 5, 41) 1405 Solana Drive Belmont • 650-592-7570 www.charlesarmstrong.org 24014:2.5All2-8Gender Non DyslexiaLearningDenominationalDifference: Please Call FA Available WASC, CAIS, NAIS Notre Dame Belmont (see pgs. 11, 42) 1540 Ralston Avenue Belmont • www.ndhsb.org650-595-9505 Girls9-12 Only 44012:1 English,Catholic Spanish, French, American Sign MandarinLanguage, FAlunchIncludes$28,550Available WASC Serendipity School (see pgs. 7, 43) 2820 Ponce Avenue Belmont • 650-596-9100 www.serendipityschool.com 13512:1AllK-5Gender Non MandarinEnglish,DenominationalSpanishand FA$27,000Available WASC Los SchoolAltosforIndependent Learners (SIL) (see pg 47) 923 N San Antonio Road Los Altos • 650-941-4350 161:1All8-12Gender German,Spanish,IndependentFrench,Latin,ASL per$18-22,000semester WASC Los HillbrookGatosSchool 300 Marchmont Drive Los Gatos • 408-356-6116 www.hillbrook.org 3757:1AllJK-12Gender Non Spanish,SectarianMandarin FA$40,700Available CAIS, NAIS Private Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 55 SCHOOLSDAYFEATUREDPrivate Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 220 Kensington Way Los Gatos • 408-371-3020 www.stratfordlosgatos.com PS - Grade 4 All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Menlo Park Peninsula School (see p. 48) 920 Peninsula Way Menlo Park • 650-325-1584 www.peninsulaschool.org 3yrs-8th Gr All 2526:1Gender Non SpanishDenominational TAK-8$18,900Nursery$26,500Available PEN Synapse School (see pgs. 27, 46) 3375 Edison Way Menlo Park • 650-294-4570 www.synapseschool.org/ 2606:1AllK-8Gender Non MandarinSpanishSectarianand FA$38,000$32,000-Available WASC, NAIS Trinity School (see pgs. 13, 45) 2650 Sand Hill Road Menlo Park • 650-854-0288 www.trinity-mp.org PS2-Grade 5 All 1597:1Gender SpanishEpiscopal PS: $23,400FAK-5$29,950$35,800Available NAEYC, NAES, CAIS, NAREAWASC,POCIS,NAIS, StratfordMilpitasSchool (see pgs 19, 34) 341 Great Mall Parkway Milpitas • 408-262-6200 www.stratfordmilpitas.com PS - Grade 8 All Gender PS 12:1 K ES-MS15:1 22:1 Varies Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School Corning (see pgs 19, 34) 25 Corning Avenue Milpitas • 408-418-9105 www.stratfordmilpitascorning.com K - Elem All Gender K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School Beresford Square (see pgs 19, 34) 125 N Milpitas Boulevard Milpitas • 408-668-2953 www.stratfordschools.com PS - Grade 2 All Gender PS 12:1 K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Morgan Hill Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 410 Llagas Road Morgan Hill • 408-776-8801 www.stratfordmorganhill.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Palo Alto Athena Academy (see pgs 25, 48) 525 San Antonio Avenue Palo Alto • 650-534-4560 www.athenaacademy.org/ 608:1All1-8Gender DyslexiaLearningIndependent,Difference: FA$43,700Available WASC, NAIS
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com56 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools SCHOOLSDAYFEATURED Private Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations Challenger School - Middlefield (see pgs 2, 39) 3880 Middlefield Road Palo Alto • 650-213-8245 palo-alto/middlefieldwww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850Imagination Lab School (see pgs XX, XX) 4000 Middlefield Road Palo Alto • 215-694-8449 www.imagination-school.org 458:1AllK-8Gender Non MandarinSectarian $4,500 FA$30,000-Available Sand Hill School at Children’s Health Council (see pgs 19, 38, Back Cover) 650 Clark Way Palo Alto • 650-688-3605 www.sandhillschool.org 766:1All2-8Gender Independent FA$46,400Available WASC Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 870 North California Avenue Palo Alto • 650-493-1151 www.stratfordpaloalto.com PS - Grade 8 All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Portola Valley Woodside Priory School (see pgs 21, 47) 302 Portola Road Portola Valley • www.prioryca.org650-851-8221 4007:1All6-12Gender SpanishFrench,IndependentMandarin, Day $76,880Boarding$52,680 WASC, CAIS, SBSA, WBSA, TABS, WCEA San HighlandsBrunoChristian Schools 1900 Monterey Drive San Bruno • 650-873-4090 www.HighlandsChristianSchools.com 18 months - 8 All 24:1Gender Non SpanishDenominationalMandarin varies by grade level (see website) ACSI, WASC Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 2322 Crestmoor Drive San Bruno • 650-837-9222 www.stratfordsanbruno.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES San SacredFranciscoHeartCathedral Preparatory (see pgs 32-33, 36) 1055 Ellis Street San Francisco • 415-772-6626 www.shcp.edu 1,32012:1All9-12Gender EnglishCatholic Spanish French MandarinJapaneseASL received330in$5$23,250millionFA-overstudents WASC, WCEA Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 301 DeMontfort Avenue San Francisco • 415-333-3134 www.stratfordsfdemontfort.com K - Grade 5 All Gender K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School 14th Avenue 645 14th Avenue San Francisco • 415-742-4254 www.stratfordsf14.com 15:1(K-6)12:1(PS)AllPS-6Gender Non SpanishEnglish,ReligiousMandarin, Varies Programby WASC, CPSTEME
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 57 SCHOOLSDAYFEATUREDPrivate Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations Stratford Middle School 75 St. Francis Street San Francisco • 415-715-8648 www.stratfordsfms.com 15:1All6-8Gender Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies Programby WASC, CPSTEME Stratford School Parkside 2425 19th Avenue San Francisco • 415-564-6250 www.stratfordsfparkside.com 15:1(K)12:1(PS)AllPS-PKGender Non SpanishEnglish,ReligiousMandarin, Varies Programby WASC, CPSTEME San Jose BASIS Independent Silicon Valley 1290 Parkmoor Avenue San Jose • www.siliconvalley.basisindependent.com408-291-0907 8008:1All5-12Gender Latin,Mandarin,IndependentFrench,Spanish $33,700 Bellarmine College Preparatory (see pgs 9, 37) 960 W Hedding Street San Jose • www.bcp.org408-294-9224 Boys9-12 Only 1,66012:1 Spanish,Catholic ASLMandarin,French,Latin, FA$24,890Available WASC/WCEA Challenger School - Almaden, (see pgs 2, 39) 19950 McKean Road San Jose • 408-927-5771 san-jose/almadenwww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850Challenger School - Berryessa, (see pgs 2, 39) 711 East Gish Road San Jose • 408-998-2860 san-jose/berryessawww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ AllPS-8Gender
2,0459:1AllK-12Gender Independent $41,400$53,800 CAIS, WASCNAIS
Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850Challenger School - Harwood, (see pgs 2, 39) 4949 Harwood Road San Jose • 408-723-0111 san-jose/harwoodwww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ Challenger School - Shawnee, (see pgs 2, 39) 500 Shawnee Lane San Jose • 408-365-9298 san-jose/shawneewww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ Challenger School - Strawberry Park, (see pgs 2, 39) 730 Camina Escuela San Jose • 408-213-0083 san-jose/strawberry-parkwww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ The Harker School, (see pgs. 3, 40) 500 Saratoga Avenue San Jose • 408-249-2510 www.harker.org
AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850-
AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850-
AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850-
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com58 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools SCHOOLSDAYFEATURED Private Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations Primary Plus, (see pgs. X, XX) 3500 Amber Drive San Jose • 408-248-2464 www.actiondayprimaryplus.com 25015:1AllK-4Gender Independent FA$17,788Available Shu Ren International School - San Jose Campus, p. XX, XX 540 Sands Drive, Bldg B San Jose • www.shurenschool.com408-508-6259 K-5:PK3,PK2AllPK-G5Gender6:1K48:111:1 SpanishEnglishMandarinNondenominationalandImmersion,Immersion PK $25,350 K $26,950 G1-G5 FA$27,450Available IB World School WASC, NAIS Stratford Preparatory School (see pgs 19, 34) 3800 Blackford Avenue San Jose • 669-256-8793 www.stratfordschools.com Grades 6-12 All Varies22:1Gender Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford Middle School (see pgs 19, 34) 1718 Andover Lane San Jose • 408-626-0001 www.stratfordsanjosems.com Varies22:1All5-8Gender Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School Almaden (see pgs 19, 34) 5200 Dent Avenue San Jose • 408-617-8356 www.stratfordalmaden.com PS - K All Gender PS 12:1 K Varies15:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School (see pgs 19, 34) 6670 San Anselmo Way San Jose • 408-363-2130 www.stratfordsanjose.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES West Valley Middle School, (see pgs. X, XX) 801 Hibiscus Lane San Jose • 408-985-2138 www.wvmiddleschool.com/ 14015:1All5-8Gender Independent FA$18,075Available San OdysseyMateoSchool 201 Polhemus Road San Mateo • www.odyssey-school.org/650-548-1500 505:1All6-8Gender Non JapaneseDenominational FA$39,050Available CAIS Accredited Santa Clara Stratford School Pomeroy (see pgs 19, 34) 890 Pomeroy Avenue Santa Clara • 408-244-4073 www.stratfordsantaclarapomeroy.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School Winchester (see pgs 19, 34) 400 N. Winchester Boulevard Santa Clara • 408-244-2121 www.stratfordsantaclarawinchester.com PS - Grade 2 All Gender PS 12:1, K Varies15:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 59 SCHOOLSDAYFEATUREDPrivate Schools Stud-FacGenderGradesRatioEnrollment Affiliation / LanguagesNotes TuitionAssistanceTuitionRange Accreditation/Associations ChallengerSaratogaSchool - Saratoga, (see pgs 2, 39) 18811 Cox Avenue Saratoga • 408-378-0444 saratogawww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850Saint Andrew’s Episcopal School, (see pgs 23, 46) 13601 Saratoga Avenue Saratoga • 408-867-3785 www.st-andrews.org/ 39815:1AllPK-8Gender EpiscopalIndependent, FA$31,400$24,875-Available CAIS, NAEYC, NAIS, NAES BASISSunnyvaleIndependent Silicon Valley Lower 1500 Partridge Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-291-0907 4708:1AllTK-5Gender Non MandarinDenominational $29,300 NAIS Challenger School - Sunnyvale, (see pgs 2, 39) 1185 Hollenbeck Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-245-7170 sunnyvalewww.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ AllPS-8Gender Non Denominational $3,740 $18,850Resurrection Catholic School 1395 Hollenbeck Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-245-4571 www.rescatholicschool.org 19015:1AllTK-8Gender SpanishCatholic $10,795FA$12,895Available WASC Stratford School Washington Park (see pgs 19, 34) 820 West McKinley Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-737-1500 www.stratfordsunnyvalewashpark.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School De Anza Park (see pgs 19, 34) 1196 Lime Drive Sunnyvale • 408-732-4424 www.stratfordsunnyvaledeanza.com PS - Elem All Gender PS 12:1, K VariesElem15:122:1 Non English,ReligiousSpanish Varies by age WASC, CSSES Stratford School Middle (see pgs 21, 44) 1500 Partridge Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-247-4400 www.stratfordsunnyvaleraynorms.com Varies22:1All6-8Gender Non SpanishDenominational Varies by age WASC, CSSES The King’s Academy (see p. 17, 47) 562 N. Britton Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-481-9900 www.tka.org 89512:1All6-12Gender Non MandarinSpanish,CollegeChrist-centeredDenominationalPreparatoryFrench, $20,550Families22%$22,900of ACSI, WASC
60 Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools www.ParentsPress.com Featured Boarding Schools Boarding Schools BoardingStud-FacGenderGradesRatio/Day SpecialtyAffiliationProgramsNotes TuitionBoardingRangeTuitionAssistance Accreditation/Associations Archbishop Riordan High School 175 Phelan Avenue San Francisco, CA • 415-586-8200 www.riordanhs.org 2311/1All9-12Gender/825 SummerCatholic Programs $35,000FA$58,000Available WASC Army and Navy Academy 2605 Carlsbad Boulevard Carlsbad, CA • 888-762-2338 www.armyandnavyacademy.org Boys7-12 Only 28815:1 / 32 Non MilitaryDenominational FA$42,800Available WASC, CAIS The Athenian School 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. Danville, CA • 510-837-5375 www.athenian.org/ 6112:1All6-12Gender/469 SummerIndependentPrograms FA$65,420Available WASC, CAIS Besant Hill School 8585 Ojai Santa Paula Road Ojai, CA • 805-646-4343 www.besanthill.org/ 854:1All9-12Gender/13 SummerIndependentPrograms FA$55,000Available WASC, CAIS Bodwell High School 955 Harbourside Drive North Vancouver, BC, Canada • 604-998-1000 www.bodwell.edu 470All8-12Gender/80 Non SummerDenominationalPrograms $47,725 FISA, BC Ministry of Education, The College Board AP Program, BCCIE Cate School 1960 Cate Mesa Road Carpinteria, CA • 805-684-4127 www.cate.org/ 2275:1All9-12Gender/48 SummerLeadershipIndependentProgramPrograms FA$62,900Available WASC
WASC, CAIS Monte Vista Christian School Two School Watsonville,WayCA• 831-722-8178 www.mvcs.org/ 7616:1All9-12Gender/564 Christian $45,900 WASC, ACSI Ojai Valley School 723 El Paseo Road Ojai, CA • 805-646-1423 www.ovs.org/ - CAIS Oregon Episcopal School 6300 SW Nicol Road Portland, OR • 503-768-3115 www.oes.edu NWAIS,NASC,TABS
Non
15012:1All9-12Gender/727 SummerEpiscopalOptions FA$67,100Available OES,
SummerArtsIndependentProgramPrograms
855:1All9-12Gender/0 Place-basedIndependent
45All11-12Gender/15 Non Denominational Arts SummerFocusOptions FA$32,000Available WASC,
855:1All3-12Gender/163 SummerIndependentPrograms $52,500
FA$62,100Available
MSASC, NIPSA Midland School 5100 Figueroa Mtn. Road Los Olivos, CA • 805-688-5114 www.midland-school.org/ College Prep
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com Delphian School 20950 SW Rock Creek Road Sheridan, OR • 503-843-3521 www.delphian.org 17210:1All5-12Gender/58 Non SummerDenominationalPrograms $54,364FA$57,416Available NWAC, NWAIS, TABS, AdvancedEdWBSA, Dunn School 2555 West Highway 154 Los Olivos, CA • 800-287-9197 www.dunnschool.org/ 1005:1All5-12Gender/80 SummerArtsFineIndependent&PerformingProgramPrograms FA$61,000Available WASC, CAIS EF Academy 1539 E Howard Street Pasadena, CA • 914-495-6056 www.efacademy.com 2507:1All9-12Gender/0 Non Denominational FA$62,250Available NAIS, CAIS Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy 440 St. Katherine Drive La Canada Flintridge, CA • 626-685-8521 www.fsha.org/ Girls9-12 Only 438:1/ 334 SummerCatholic Programs FA$61,740Available WASC, CAIS Hawaii Preparatory Academy 65-1692 Kohala Mountain Road Kamuela, HI • 808-881-4321 www.hpa.edu 20012:1All9-12Gender/200 Non Denominational FA$57,200Available HAIS, WASC Idyllwild Arts Academy 52500 Temecula Rd. Idyllwild, CA • 951-659-2171 www.idyllwildarts.org/ 2775:1All9-12Gender/41 FA$65,091Available WASC, CAIS Lake Tahoe Preparatory School 255 Squaw Valley Road Olympic Valley, CA • 530-583-8665 www.laketahoeprep.org 707:1All9-12Gender/5 SummerDenominationalPrograms FA$55,000Available
FA$60,500Available WASC,
The Oxbow School 530 3rd Street Napa, CA • 707-255-6000 www.oxbowschool.org/ CAIS Pilgrim School 540 South Commonwealth Avenue Los Angeles, CA • 213-355-5204 www.pilgrim-school.org/
2610:1All9-12Gender/395 Independent FA$39,000Available WASC, CAIS Boarding Schools BoardingStud-FacGenderGradesRatio/Day SpecialtyAffiliationProgramsNotes TuitionBoardingRangeTuitionAssistance Accreditation/Associations
Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press 61 SCHOOLSBOARDINGFEATURED
Private Schools SCHOOLSBOARDINGFEATURED
More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com62 Parents’ | Guide to
WASC, CAIS Southwestern Academy 2800 Monterey Road San Marino, CA • 626-799-5010 www.southwesternacademy.edu/ 1218:1All6-12Gender/22 SummerIndependentPrograms FA$44,600Available WASC St. Michaels University School 3400 Richmond Road Victoria, Canada • 250-370-6170 www.smus.ca 4506:1All8-12Gender/650 Non SummerDenominationalPrograms FA$63,460Available CAIS, WBSA, NAIS, PNAIS, TABS, IECA, SSAT
School
The Webb Schools 1175 West Baseline Road Claremont, CA • 909-482-5214 www.webb.org/ CAIS Woodside Priory School (see pgs 21, 47) 302 Portola Road Portola Valley, CA • 650-851-8221 www.prioryca.org
Tahoe Prep Academy 2478 Meyers Grade Road South Lake Tahoe, CA • 844-752-9842 www.tahoehockeyacademy.com
2436:1All9-12Gender/167 SummerIndependentPrograms FA$68,775Available WASC,
WASC, CAIS Santa Catalina School 1500 Mark Thomas Drive Monterey, CA • 831-655-9300 www.santacatalina.org Girls9-12 Only 1136:1 / 103 SummerCatholic Programs FA$59,000Available
Non
Non
FA$61,500Available WASC
66All9-12Gender/5 Non Denominational Ice Hockey FA$47,500Available
Non
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The Thacher School 5025 Thacher Road Ojai, CA • 805-646-4377 www.thacher.org/ CAIS Villanova Preparatory 12096 N. Ventura Avenue Ojai, CA • 805-646-1464 www.villanovaprep.org/ -
8210:1All9-12Gender/136 SummerIndependentPrograms $51,500
San Domenico School 1500 Butterfield Road San Anselmo, CA • 415-258-1900 www.sandomenico.org/ 12012:1All9-12Gender/550 Independent FA$65,610Available
Steamboat Mountain School 42605 RCR 36 Steamboat Springs, CO • 970-879-1350 www.steamboatmountainschool.org 408:1All9-12Gender/28 Denominational FA$48,800Available ACIS, TABS Stevenson School 3152 Forest Lake Road Pebble Beach, CA • 831-625-8300 www.stevensonschool.org 30010:1All9-12Gender/200 Denominational FA$68,900Available WASC, CAIS Sugar Bowl Academy 815 Lupine Trail Norden, CA • 530-426-1844 www.sbacademy.org 605:1All8-12Gender/2 Denominational Ski Focus FA$50,960Available
2275:1All9-12Gender/27 GiftedIndependentPrograms FA$62,810Available WASC,
507:1All9-12Gender/350 Catholic FA$76,880Available WASC, CAIS, SBSA, WBSA, TABS, WCEA Boarding Schools Boarding BoardingStud-FacGenderGradesRatio/Day SpecialtyAffiliationProgramsNotes TuitionBoardingRangeTuitionAssistance Accreditation/Associations
ACSI — Association of Christian Schools International www.acsi.org AEFE — Agence pour l’Enseignement Français à l’Etranger www.aefe.fr AMI — American Montessori Internationale www.montessori-ami.org AMS — American Montessori Society www.amshq.org AWSNA — Association of Waldorf Schools of North America www.whywaldorfworks.org
BADA — Independent Schools of the San Francisco Bay Area www.issfba.org BAMA — Bay Area Montessori www.bayareamontessoriassociation.comAssociation
What Does Accreditation Mean?
CAIS — California Association of Independent Schools www.caisca.org CAPSES — California Association of Private Special Education Schools. www.capses.com CAWS — California Association of IB World Schools www.c-aws.org CPSTEME — Carnegie Science Seal of Excellence for STEM www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/ IB, IBO — International Baccalaureate www.ibo.org ISSFBA — Independent Schools of the San Francisco Bay Area www.issfba.org MEN — Ministère de l’Education Nationale www.education.gouv.fr
A Key to Private School Accreditations, Affiliations, and Associations
SSS — School & Student Services by NAIS www.sss.nais.org TABS — The Association of Boarding Schools www.tabs.org WASC — Western Association of Schools and Colleges www.wascweb.org WCEA — Western Catholic Education Association www.westwcea.org
POCIS — People of Color in Independent Schools of Northern California, www.nocapocis.org RULER — The RULER approach to social and emotional learning www.therulerapproach.org
“Accrediting is done by a variety of accrediting organizations,” points out the California Department of Education online (www.cde.ca.gov), citing the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, or
PACE — Professional Association for Childhood Education www.pacenet.org PEN — Progressive Education www.progressiveeducationnetwork.orgNetwork
Here is a list of the accrediting, affiliation, and association bodies that schools list in our Regional Guide to Private Schools. NAEYC — National Association for the Education of Young Children, www.naeyc.org NAIS — National Association of Independent Schools www.nais.org NAREA — North American Reggio Emilia Alliance www.reggioalliance.org
A ccreditation and professional affiliations and associations indicate a private school has been evaluated by and met or exceeded specific criteria set forth by a designated and agreed-upon accrediting- or affiliation-granting body.
NCEA — National Catholic Educational Association www.ncea.org NCPSA — National Council for Private School Accreditation www.ncpsa.org NIPSA — National Independent Private Schools Association www.nipsa.org
WASC, as an example of an established organization that accredits both private and public K–12 schools. “WASC accreditation generally ensures that the credits and diploma awarded by the schools it accredits will be accepted by colleges and prospective employers,” says the CDE, which does not accredit schools.WASC is one of five regional accrediting as sociations for schools and colleges, and its territory includes schools operating in California.
“School accreditation is a peer-review process that fosters excellence in education and encourages school improvement through discovery, dialogue, compliance, and commitment. Accreditation enables a member school to develop clearly defined goals and objectives based on its mission and philosophy,” says the California Association of Independent Schools (www.caisca.org).
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These accreditations, affiliations, and associations can be national, regional, or local, covering religious beliefs, educational philosophies, or special interests and last for a specific number of years, often with prescribed steps in the interim to assure compliance. What they have in common is that they serve as a sort of stamp of approval, signifying to colleges and universities that their members operate schools with meaningful education standards.
We’re dedicated to helping 2nd to 8th grade students with language-based learning differences, ADHD and school-based anxiety learn to love school again. Schedule a virtual tour. sandhillschool.org/visit Learn to love school again. info@sandhillschool.org650.688.3605 650 Clark Way Palo Alto, CA 94304 Feel Connection Discover Strengths Set Personal Goals Gain Confidence Because Sand Hill students learn differently, we teach differently.
