Silicon Valley Peninsula San Francisco School Guide

FAMILIES BY THE BAY GUIDE TO

PRIVATE SCHOOLS 2020/2021

Finding the Right School for Your Child San Francisco–San Mateo–Santa Clara From the publishers of

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.

10 Bay Area locations

© 2020, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

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An Unwavering Commitment to Excellence.

Since Harker’s founding in 1893 we have offered unrivaled academic programs and extracurricular offerings for students to explore their interests, discover their passions, and develop the skills to succeed in an ever-changing world. We are honored to have educated the students of the valley for over a century and will proudly continue our unwavering commitment to excellence for generations to come.

then&now

We invite you to learn more about Harker by exploring our website, signing up for one of our virtual admission events or contacting us at communications@harker.org.

The Harker School | San Jose, CA | K-12 College Prep | www.harker.org

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Regional Guide to Private Schools Parents’ Press takes the guesswork out of finding the right private school for your child, from start to finish.

contents 6

Why Consider Private School?

10 The Private School Search: Where to Start?

14 Basic Timeline for Applying to a Private School

A month-by-month guide to the application process

16 Apply to

26 Making the Most of Your Campus Visit

28 Acceptance

29 Financial

Deadline

18 Shadow Days 20 Entrance

Exam 101

22 Tips for a

Great Essay

24 Preparing for the

Assistance: Basics You Need to Know

30 Myths About Financial Assistance

a Private School

18 Applying After

and Decision

36

Private School Profiles Profiles Private School Listings

55

63 What Does

Accreditation Mean?

Designed and Published by

875-A Island Dr., Ste. 421 Alameda, CA 94502 www.parentspress.com Publishers | Robert & Tracy McKean Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Regional Guide to Private Schools is published annually by Parents’ Press. ©2020

63 Affiliation Key

Interview

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5

Why Consider Private School?

M

any 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.

There are two primary sorts of private schools— independent schools and parochial schools.

Independent schools are defined as nonprofit private schools with their own governing board of trustees.

While most people commonly refer to independent schools as private, lumping them in with parochial

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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. and for profit schools, they are distinct because they are nonprofit and self-governing.

Parochial schools, where tuition is typically one-third that of independent schools, offer traditional instruction 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. >>>

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I matter.

I can.

I care.

I am Serendipity serendipityschool.com

A progressive hands-on education www.serendipityschool.com for Preschool through Grade Five. www.ParentsPress.com

Elementary: Belmont, CA Preschool: San Mateo, CA

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Why Consider Private School? cont’d.

When considering private school education, think about these benefits as outlined by the Independent Schools of the San Francisco Bay Area (www.issfba.org): High academic standards 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.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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 communication 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 You can select a school whose philosophy, values, and teaching approach is right for your child. 

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The Private School Search: Where to Start?

W

ith every private school brochure flashing standards imposed on public schools. photos of smiling students thriving in A simple way to begin thinking about which private science labs and onstage, it can be hard to school may be right for your child is to look at how the tell schools apart.Though on closer look, each school school is structured. For example, some schools do not has its own personality, spanning a wider range of assign homework and others group different grades educational styles and often offering smaller classes together in one classroom. By doing this step, it is easy than public schools. to rule out schools that are not of interest.

Some schools follow distinct It’s time to start thinking about An easy, simple way educational philosophies like fall of 2021 if your child is about to to begin thinking Waldorf or Montessori. Others begin her last year of preschool or focus on music, offer a girlsis in fifth or eighth grade. Starting about which private only student body, a year-round a year before you actually need to school may be right for can help relieve anxiety as well as schedule, or teach their curriculum your child is to look exclusively in French. There give you time to do you research. are schools with impressive The timeline for what can be a at how the school is art, sports, drama, and science rigorous search for private schools structured. programs. Some are K–5 or K–8, begins with open house events and others only grades 6–8, and still others are K–12. All tours starting in September; applications in December of these schools have the luxury of complete freedom and January; and acceptance or rejection letters in designing curriculum to fit the school’s philisophy in early March. The sooner you can start checking because they are not subject to the state testing out schools that interest you, the better, whether those schools are independent or parochial. >>> 10

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Inspiring Academic Excellence, Servant Leadership, & Enduring Relationships

the king’s academy CHRIST-CENTERED COLLEGE PREPARATORY • GRADES 6 -12

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#1 Best Christian High School in San Francisco Bay Area

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The Private School Search: Where to Start? cont’d.

Parents who have been through the process before recommend the following combination of first steps: • 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.

• Weed out schools that won’t work because of things like location or early start times.

• Learn basic facts like the number of students enrolled and student-teacher ratio.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 12

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

have benefitted from.

• 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.

• Once you’ve got a list of schools to check out, create a list of admission event dates, application and financial assistance registration deadlines.

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.

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.

The school search process is a stressful one. However, with some advance preparation and cclear goals, it doesn’t have to be onerous. You might even gain some new insight into yourself and your child along the way.  www.ParentsPress.com

California Crosspoint Academy Grades 4-12

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Accreditations and Awards

WASC | ACSI | 2016 National Blue Ribbon School

Campus Tours available at YOUR convenience!

California Crosspoint Academy 25500 Industrial Blvd | Hayward | 510.995.5333 www.crosspointacademy.org www.ParentsPress.com

More info: debbieleong@crosspointacademy.org Guide to Private Schools

| Parents’ Press

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A month-by-month guide to the application process.

Basic Timeline

Although not every school follows the exact schedule, many follow similar timetables for admission. The following is a timeline to help you in the admissions process.

Many schools are transitioning to virtual admissions events and individual family tours.

AUGUST

(of the year before you want your child to attend)

❑ Define your ideal school. ❑ Find schools that match your child’s needs. ❑ Research and ask questions of schools on your preliminary list.

SEPTEMBER

❑ Browse schools’ websites, look books to learn more about their programs and philosophies. ❑ Request admissions and financial aid material by phone or online. ❑ Create a calendar of pertinent admission and financial assitance deadlines for the schools to which you are considering applying. ❑ Ask elementary schools about their test schedules and make appointments. ❑ Register for any standardized tests required for admission. ❑ Review the test websites to learn about procedures and test dates, see sample questions, and purchase testpreparation books.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

❑ Call schools to schedule individual tours, class visits, interviews, and “shadow days”.

OCTOBER

❑ 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.

NOVEMBER

❑ 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. ❑ Start working on applications, financial assitance forms, student questionnaires, and essays.

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for Applying

to a Private School

DECEMBER

MARCH

❑ Request transcripts at the end of your child’s first semester.

❑ Watch for financial assitance decisions about this same time.

❑ Complete any remaining applications, questionnaires, etc.

Some application materials are due as early as December or can be as late as February.

❑ If your student is accepted by multiple schools, decide which school your child will attend.

❑ Continue to watch for any admission or school events of interest.

JANUARY

❑ Pay attention to deadlines: Most schools’ applications are due in January or February, along with tests scores, references, transcripts, and financial assitance forms. ❑ Financial assitance applications are normally due in January or February.

FEBRUARY

❑ For schools with February admissions deadline turn in applications.

❑ Watch for school decisions starting in mid-March.

APRIL

❑ Sign and return enrollment contracts and deposits.

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

❑ Attend events and activities for new parents and students during spring and summer. ❑ Get to know other families in the school. ❑ Sign up for fall sports and clubs

❑ Visit schools applied to again or have your child participate in a student shadow day if you haven’t already.

Reprinted with permission from the National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org. www.ParentsPress.com

Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

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Applying to a Private School

Y

our 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 you and your child into the right school.

• 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 and costs.

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While each school has its own criteria for admitting students, the typical application package involves: • A completed application form, usually available from the school’s website, and application fee.

• Parent or guardian statements.

• 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.

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Depending on the grade to which you are applying, some schools might also ask for: • Student writing samples.

• Student portfolios.

• 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 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 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.

• 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, it’s likely the school was not a good fit.

• Don’t miss application deadlines. But if you do, some schools have rolling admissions and admit students throughout the school year. 

Where today’s students become tomorrow’s global thinkers.

AltoSchool.org

Offering a globally minded, progressive education in Menlo Park, serving grades PS-12 www.ParentsPress.com

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Applying After the Deadline Don’t give up on a school if you’ve missed the admissions deadline.

“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.”

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. 

Shadow Days

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: • Typically, shadow days can be scheduled anytime from October to May.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

• Visitors are often required to respect the school dress code.

• Visiting students are usually allowed to shadow a current student they already know, as long as the request is made in advance.

• If prospective students do not know any current students, the school will assign one based on interests in academics, extracurricular activities, etc.

• Shadow days are just for students; no parents allowed. 

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WHEN STUDENTS EMBRACE A CHALLENGE

THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS

We are excited to welcome students back for the upcoming school year with safety in mind and plans for a flexible learning environment. To help your family get to know Stratford School, we invite you to join us for a Virtual Tour providing an overview of our robust programs, vibrant school community, and xtraordinary curriculum.

JOIN US FOR A Virtual TOUR TODAY! StratfordSchools.com/tours

Now Enrolling Preschool THROUGH

Middle School*

Locations throughout the Bay Area *Grades offered vary by location. Preschool State License Numbers: 073402482, 013420588, 013423042, 434404890, 434413440, 434410816, 434408056, 013420939, 414004014, 384001837, 384004006, 434407977, 434408877, 434410807, 434404336, 434406722, 198018949, 198018875, 197493889, 304371162. Copyright © 2020 Stratford Schools, Inc.

Prayer, Study...

St. Anthony-Immaculate Conception School 299 Precita Ave San Francisco, CA 94110 415-648-2008

www.saicsf.org

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Entrance Exam 101

M

ost 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. 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.

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 20

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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.

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). 

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San Francisco and Marin campuses | Preschool to Grade 12 We offer a unique opportunity for young children to learn about and share cultural and linguistic perspectives; to grow as curious, motivated learners; to become fluent French speakers and scholars; to thrive as tomorrow’s global citizens. lelycee.org

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Tips for a Great Essay

A

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.

READ THE DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY 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.

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.

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.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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.

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.

GET CREATIVE If you are an aspiring writer, for example, ask the school if you can write in verse, instead of the usual narrative.

BE CONCRETE 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.

PARENTS, THIS MUST BE YOUR CHILD’S WORK 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.  www.ParentsPress.com

A Unique School, A Unique Community

Woodside International School is a WASC-Accredited, Independent College-Preparatory High School founded in 1976 The Woodside program is designed to support each student to ensure that they progress academically, socially and personally.

• Rigorous UC-approved curriculum and individual college counseling • Small class sizes with personalized instruction • Diverse, global student body and staff • Large selection of extra-curricular classes

Woodside International School of San Francisco

INQUIRING SCHOLARS • HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS • CONTRIBUTING CITIZENS

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Located in the Inner Sunset 1555 Irving Street San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 564-1063 Phone (415) 564-2511 Fax www.wissf.org

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Preparing for the Interview When students are old enough to be the key subject of interviews, they should be prepared to answer typical questions, such as: • 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 your child to talk up accomplishments.

• 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 your child sees it as a match for his own personality, academic strengths, interests, and aspirations.

Hopefully, during visits, or in talking to students and faculty, your child has encountered programs or a learning environment that excites him.

T

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 twoway conversation that helps everyone involved, school staff, parents and child, determine if the school is the right fit for your child.

The structure of the interview depends on the school and your child’s age. Typically, the applicant and 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.

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.

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.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

• Talk about subjects or teachers you like: Help your child figure out certain coursework that has recently been engaging, 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 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 come up with a list of questions that reflects how the school might nurture your child’s interests. “Will I be able to do dissections in sixth-grade biology?”“Can I audition for school plays in ninth grade?”“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 interest in coming to the school.

Parents and students should always be honest, experts say. That doesn’t mean you should accentuate your child’s weaknesses, provide too much information about family challenges, or badmouth your child’s current school.

Instead, accentuate the positive: A child’s weakness or a family’s challenges are things he is working to overcome; or his current school simply isn’t the right fit for his unique needs and interests. 

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

25

Making the Most of Your Campus Visit

Y

ou’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 opportunity. Private school experts offer these suggestions for what to ask about, look for, and consider before, during, and after the visit.

• Do some pre-visit research. Read up on the school’s history, educational philosophy, and accomplishments. Ask for information about student-teacher 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.

• If possible, visit on a regular school day, arrange to observe a classroom, and stay to sample a school lunch.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

• General impressions count, but so do the details.

Take note of what the grounds and classrooms are like. 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?

• 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?

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.  www.ParentsPress.com

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27

The Acceptance and Decision

T

he application is completed, interviews and shadow • Ask to talk to some teachers. days all done—all that’s left is waiting for the • Talk to graduates or current families of the acceptance letter (or email) and then the big school—especially any who have come from your decision. Usually, acceptance (or rejection or waitlist) child’s current school. notifications go out on a Friday in mid-March, and • Encourage your child to talk to other students. families then have seven days to decide where their child will attend. So how to make the decision?

ONCE YOU DECIDE When you learn about your child’s acceptance, you • Be sure to contact the school you choose by the will also learn about financial assistance awards. If the reply deadline. grant you receive does not meet your needs, or if you are • Let all schools where you were admitted know not awarded any financial assitance, contact the school’s of your final decision so they can contact other financial assitance officer to learn about other options. families on their waiting list.

The following are tips on choosing a school from the • Return your signed enrollment contract and National Association of Independent Schools. tuition deposit.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE ACCEPTED IF YOU’RE WAITLISTED • If you’re certain about the school, say yes—but feel free to take the full seven days to sit with the decision • Call the school right away and let admissions to make sure it feels right. officials know that you are very interested. Stay in touch with them throughout the summer. SomeDECIDING ON A SCHOOL times children can be accepted off the waitlist just • Discuss the options as a family. days before school begins.

• Make a pro and con list for each possible school.

IF YOU’RE REJECTED • Revisit your notes from tours and open houses. Follow • Consider other schools. your heart. Revisit your wish list to make sure you’ve fulfilled your priorities. Be sure that your child will thrive • Ask the school for feedback about what factors in the school community you choose. made the difference. Try to approach the issue in a nonjudgmental way; tell the admissions staff you IF YOU ARE NOT SURE want to get information that can help your child • Consider a second visit to the school; have your child do better in the future.  do a shadow day if she hasn’t already.

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Financial Assistance: Basics You Need to Know

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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 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.

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.

WHEN TO APPLY 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.

TYPES OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE • 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Each scholarship program will have its own eligibility rules, application, and deadlines.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

 Reprinted with permission from the National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org.

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Myths About Financial Aid MYTH: An independent school education is out of reach for all but wealthy families.

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: All schools our child applies to will offer our family the same financial aid package.

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.

MYTH: The deadlines for admission and financial aid are the same.

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.

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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 available online. In addition, many schools offer financial aid workshops, and staffers welcome your calls any time you have questions.

MYTH: If we tell the school our family needs financial aid, this might hurt our child’s chances of being admitted.

REALITY: 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: It’s too intimidating to talk to the school about our private financial matters.

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.  Reprinted with permission from the National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org. www.ParentsPress.com

51 . 18 EST

me e Da Notr entary Elem rt illia lie B t Ju Sain

JOIN OUR FAMILY.

Develop holistic learning communities, which educate for life.

Educate for and act on behalf of justice and peace in the world.

Create faith-based community and commit ourselves to the service of that community.

Notre Dame Elementary K-8, Co-Educational Independent Catholic School www.nde.org (650) 591-2209

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Fearless, W

EXCELL

Find out more a 32

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We Pursue

LENCE

at shcp.edu/visit More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

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DISCOVER QUARRY LANE Education is a lifelong commitment

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Quarry Lane School

At Quarry Lane, we are passionate about instilling an authentic love for learning in our students. We offer a rigorous, balanced, college preparatory academic program to students entering Jr. Kindergarten through grade 12, with a distinct emphasis in the disciplines of science, engineering and technology. We are proud to offer the IB Diploma Programme, considered the gold standard for college admissions. Quarry Lane is consistently ranked among the top private K-12 and college prep schools in the nation.

Discover the Quarry Lane difference today.

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925.829.8000

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QUARRYLANE.ORG

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Learn to love school again.

Because Sand Hill students learn differently, we teach differently.

Feel Connection

Discover Strengths

Set Personal Goals

Gain Confidence

Schedule a virtual tour. sandhillschool.org/visit

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.

650.688.3605 info@sandhillschool.org 650 Clark Way Palo Alto, CA 94304 www.ParentsPress.com

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory

S

acred 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.

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.

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 36

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Peninsula School

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ATCHING CHILDREN RUN THROUGH THE WOODED CAMPUS in a game of capture the flag, bound into the Victorian mansion for an arts class, or express their opinions during a class meeting, it’s easy to see why students from nursery through 8th grade are excited to attend Peninsula School each day.

Several aspects make Peninsula unique among independent schools. Student to teacher ratio is low. Students have a great deal of voice in decisions and in their education. The democratic process is used with students for collaboration and decision making. An intellectually vigorous curriculum is steeped in inquiry, critical thinking, analysis, hands on experiences and the arts.

Peninsula believes that every child is born with natural curiosity and a desire to be part of a supportive community. And that providing children with a joyful and diverse environment with opportunities to make choices, to be active participants in their learning and to collaborate with others, allows intellectual curiosity to flourish, social skills to develop naturally, and confidence to grow.

Teachers tailor dynamic learning experiences to each class that focus on developing cognitive flexibility, social and cultural fluency, collaborative inquiry, precision of thought and persistence.

The 5-8 program is designed to take advantage of the adolescent needs for a voice in decisions, autonomy, intellectual inquiry and social interactions. The nongraded and non-competitive program focuses on selfevaluation and self-improvement, on taking authorship of one’s learning and on gaining the confidence to take academic risks. Camping trips are an essential component of the curriculum.

Peninsula School began as an innovative idea in 1925 and has had a profound influence on children throughout its history. At Peninsula learning at every stage is joyful and students contribute to the world as confident and creative learners, ethical citizens and compassionate leaders.

Peninsula begins with children as young as 3 years old in a play-based Nursery program. Students in K-4 are grouped in classrooms to enhance their social, emotional and cognitive development.

920 Peninsula Way | Menlo Park | 650-325-1584 www.peninsulaschool.org

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Sand Hill School at CHC

D

o you have a child in grades 2-8 with learning differences and school anxiety? While you've been sheltering in place, have you noticed some things about your child's learning style you weren't aware of before? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Sand Hill School may be a fit. We know that families right now are simply worn out with worry about school, COVID, work, parenting and teaching at home, especially for children who learn differently. As Head of School at Sand Hill, I can honestly say that we have created a bestin-class distance learning model: personalized, interactive, supportive and structured. Our innovative approach ensures students are supported academically, physically, creatively, socially and emotionally, even from afar.

therapy, speech and language, counseling, behavior support, literacy specialist) conducted directly with the student and the specialist.

School this year starts with our distance learning model with a hybrid program ready to go when it is safe and legal. When that time comes, families have the option to continue with distance learning or participate in the hybrid program. All distance learning features will continue in the hybrid model so that the transition back to campus is simple and safe.

Virtual Tour: https://www.sandhillschool.org/ visit/

• Visual Arts and PE every week • Personalized support for reluctant learners Please reach out to us if you are interested in learning more about whether your child is a fit for this wonderful school. We'd love to speak with you.

Sincerely, Chris Harris, MEd Chief Schools Officer and Head of Sand Hill School Website: www.sandhillschool.org

Email Julia: jrodriguez@chconline.org

• Small cohorts for reading, writing and math (2-6 students) • Small cohorts for social emotional well-being • Group meetings and individual check-ins • All needed support services (occupational 650 Clark Way | Palo Alto, CA 94304 | 650-688-3605 www.sandhillschool.org

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Challenger School

I

N 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.

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.

BREATHTAKING RESULTS 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.

Challenger School offers preschool through eighth grade and operates a total of 26 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.

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.

Ten Bay Area Locations www.challengerschool.com/

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SCHOOL PROFILES

international recognition for its top academics, quality teachers and students’ achievements.

The Harker School

New! Peninsula Shuttle Service For the convenience of our many families on the Peninsula we have added a bus service to Harker from Portola Valley and Los Altos.

The Harker School | San Jose, CA | K-12 I Preschool | Summer | www.harker.org

F

ounded in 1893 The Harker School is one of the nation’s top college-prep schools. A Harker education features inspiring and challenging academics, comprehensive extracurricular programs and electives, and leading-edge facilities and resources.

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 qualities. Harker evaluates the course placement that will best challenge and inspire each student to academic excellence, ensuring a motivating and exciting learning environment.

In Harker’s athletic program, teamwork, sportsmanship, dedication and leadership are cornerstones, and emphasis is placed on developing self-confidence and a sense of fair play.

Harker is a supportive, safe, fun and nurturing place where kids make friends for life with their peers, their teachers and the staff. Our students leave Harker uncommonly prepared for college and ready to make a difference in the world.

Outstanding faculty and small class sizes are paramount at Harker. Teachers, many of whom hold advanced degrees in their subject areas, are selected for their academic expertise, positive role modeling and passion for teaching.

After-school offerings – most of which are included in tuition – encourage students to explore and discover their passions outside the classroom. A multidisciplinary program of performance, art and music are part of the curriculum beginning in kindergarten.

500 Saratoga Avenue | San Jose | 408-249-2510 www.harker.org

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Charles Armstrong School Providing Over 50 Years of Transformational Education.

Our 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 neuro-diversity.  We nurture and celebrate individual strengths and talents.  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.

We meet students where they are and provide: • • • • •

A rich academic curriculum A safe learning environment Structured and systematic instructions Appropriately paced lessons Multi-sensory and mult-model learning methods • Movement, mindfulness and brain boosts throughout the day • Integrated social emotional learning • And believe in a positive, collaborative partnership with families

Visit Armstrong: Register on our website

to attend a Virtual Information Night or schedule a Virtual Tour.

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 Founded in 1968, with families attending from across the Bay area Accreditations: 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.

1405 Solana Drive | Belmont | CA | 94002 650-592-7570 www.charlesarmstrong.org

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SCHOOL PROFILES

California Crosspoint Academy Grades 4-12

C

alifornia Crosspoint Academy takes learning very seriously, and our academic record speaks for itself. 100% of our graduates have gone on to college or the military.

Founded in 1979, our comprehensive and challenging academics rank among the very best in the nation. Graduates have been accepted

by UC Berkeley, UCLA, Cornell, Yale, Johns Hopkins, and West Point. Our small class sizes, 18 Advanced Placement courses, and 5:1 student to faculty ratio make for an intimate, creative, and collaborative learning environment.

Our students are taught by a highly qualified faculty, 60% of whom have Master’s or Ph.D.’s.

Teachers are not simply instructors, but tutors, mentors and often a “listening ear” for our student body.

We seek to minister to the entire student and develop young people to be not just academically strong, but spiritually and emotionally healthy.

you will quickly realize there is something special here.

Our motto is “Transforming Lives for the Glory of God” and our mission is to fully equip students to allow them to find God’s will and purpose for their individual life.

Stats for the California Crosspoint University Preparatory Program: • 100% of our graduates go on to college or the military • 90% accepted into 4 year colleges • 18 Advanced Placement and Honors Courses • Average class size of 15-18 • Student to Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1 To learn more or to schedule a visit, go to www.crosspointacademy.org

As a small school we provide “Access to Opportunities” as an invitation to try a new sport, participate in the performing arts for the first time, consider a run for student government, and start a new club that matches your passion. These opportunities are available to all students and all are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and meet the challenge. Life-long student relationships develop by way of 7 team sports for boys and girls, student led clubs, and class trips both domestic and abroad.

California Crosspoint is often described as a family. We care about and care for one another.

Walk through our halls, talk to our people, and 25500 Industrial Blvd • Hayward • CA • 94545 • 510-995-5333 www.crosspointacademy.org 42

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Serendipity School

S

erendipity: n. The gift of discovering valuable or pleasant things that are not looked for

erendipity School: A setting for unexpected and exciting learning experiences that are sparked by discovery, guided by individuality, and supported by community Serendipity 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.

ENCOURAGING 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.

All Serendipity students are encouraged to meet challenges and strive for excellence.

individuals and engages students throughout the learning process. Our highly skilled and trained educators teach to the whole child, and implement a differentiated curriculum that is both diverse and dynamic.

EMPOWERING 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.” Serendipity School Parent Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary School Education

ENGAGING Serendipity School believes in providing an educational experience that treats children as San Mateo and Belmont • CA 650-574-7400 (Preschool) 650-596-9100 (Kindergarten and Elementary) www.serendipityschool.com/

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Lycée Français de San Francisco (LFSF)

A World of Opportunities Lycée Français de San Francisco (LFSF) is the only exclusively French immersion school in the Bay Area. We offer a unique opportunity for young children to learn about and share cultural and linguistic perspectives; to grow as curious and motivated learners; to become fluent French speakers and scholars; to thrive in tomorrow’s world. LFSF boasts a diverse, international community of students, families, faculty and staff, providing a rich educational environment that emphasizes academic excellence and personal achievement.

Our mission is to be the model school for multicultural and multilingual education, actively preparing tomorrow’s global citizens.

Starting with our 2-3 year old program in Preschool and continuing through High School, our program is based on the prestigious French national curriculum. Non-French speakers can join our immersion program up to first grade, where they will flourish in a full-French environment enriched by core college-preparatory courses taught in English. Dual US and French credentials allow our secondary school students to distinguish themselves from their peers as they apply for admission to the finest colleges and universities in the world.

Our new Lower School campus in Sausalito, open since 2013, welcomes students in Preschool – Grade 5.

Our San Francisco Lower School campus is located on Ashbury Street and welcomes students in Preschool – Grade 5.

Our San Francisco Upper School campus is located on Ortega Street and welcomes students Grades 6 – 12.

Ashbury Campus | 415.661.5232 755 Ashbury Street San Francisco, CA 94117 Sausalito Campus | 415.661.5232 610 Coloma Suite 300 Sausalito, CA 94965 Ortega Campus | 415.661.5232 1201 Ortega Street San Francisco, CA 94122

LFSF is a unique environment that promotes initiative, autonomy, cooperation and individual responsibility—qualities that are critical to the success of thriving young adults.

We have three campuses in the Bay Area, located in San Francisco and in Marin:

www.lelycee.org

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When you provide a safe environment to learn, the extraordinary happens.

A

Multiple Locations Throughout the Bay Area www.stratfordschools.com

t 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!

Alto International School

A

lto is an International Baccalaureate World School in the heart of Silicon Valley. Every day we create a stimulating learning environment for our students who come from all over the world. Students of all ages are exposed to an international mindset and an inquiry-based learning approach.

Our internationally focused middle and high school offers students a unique preparatory, multilingual education providing them with the necessary skills for university and life beyond. Students are taught in a multilingual environment, graduating with literacy skills in at least two languages. For younger students, we offer a Germanimmersion focused preschool and elementary program, educating engaged, independent, and balanced learners.

475 Pope Street Menlo Park, CA 94025 650.324.8617 www.altoschool.org More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

At Alto, we believe that the world needs young people eager to take on today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Alto International School equips students with the skills and confidence to contribute to making our world a better place.

Learn more at AltoSchool.org

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Discover Stratford School

SCHOOL PROFILES

Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool

N

otre Dame Elementary & Preschool is a Preschool-Grade 8, Co-Educational private, Catholic School.

At NDE we...

Develop holistic learning communities which educate for life.

Educate for an act on behalf of justice and peace in the world.

Create faith-based community ad commit ourselves to the service of others.

1200 Notre Dame Avenue Belmont, CA 94002 650-591-2209 www.nde.org

Sierra School

S

ierra School provides a high-quality, challenging, comprehensive academic program in an environment filled with inspiration, trust, guidance and respect. Equally important to the academic program is an emphasis on specialized classes and enrichment activities. Art, music, dance, character education, Spanish and technology are all included in the curriculum. Highlights of the year include monthly field trips, fine arts Fridays, a December songfest, a spring musical, a school wide design thinking fair and a K-5 art show. Sierra believes all students can be challenged, and the school keeps its criteria high yet attainable for each individual. Students are helped to value honesty, reliability, productivity and compassion with an overall goal of encouraging them to discover, explore, reach and accomplish.

Sierra School’s programs offer:

220 Blake Ave Santa Clara, CA 95051 408-247-4740 www.sierraschool.com 46

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Grade Levels: K-12th grade Extracurricular: Science Adventures, Art, Dance, Chess, Martial Arts, Keyboarding, Engineering Fundamentals with Legos, Coding Average Class size: 15 Enrollment: Ongoing Tuition: $16,650 - $20,600

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T

KA 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 65 competitive athletic teams.

CHRIST-CENTERED COLLEGE PREPARATORY Junior and Senior High School, Grades 6-12

562 N. Britton Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94085 408-481-9900 www.tka.org

Attend one of TKA's Virtual Open Houses: Saturday, October 24 & December 5, 11:00 a.m. RSVP at www.tka.org/openhouse to receive a link to the program Learn how TKA is preparing students for college, life, service and eternity.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, a grades 5–12 private school, students and subject expert teachers engage in a spiraling liberal arts with STEM offerings curriculum benchmarked to the best education systems in the world.

Our advanced program graduates students who are ranked years ahead of their U.S. and global peers in math, reading, and science, and who go on to attend and excel in the world's most prestigious and respected colleges and universities, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, Princeton, The London School of Economics, and more. Now accepting applications.

1290 Parkmoor Avenue San Jose, CA 95126 408-291-0907 siliconvalley.basisindependent.com More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

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SCHOOL PROFILES

The King's Academy

SCHOOL PROFILES

The Athenian School

2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd.

Danville, CA 94506 925-837-5375 www.athenian.org

Athenian believes that the best way to master academic subjects is to experience their application first hand. In our rigorous academic program, you and other talented students from the East Bay and around the world will immerse yourselves in coursework, inspiring each other to think critically, problem solve, and collaborate as global citizens. As an Athenian graduate, you will thrive in any of the nation's best colleges and be poised for a life of intellectual exploration and meaningful contribution.

535 students (170 in grades 6-8, 365 in grades 9-12) enjoy a beautiful 75-acre campus at the base of Mt. Diablo. Distinctive programs include middle school focus days, learning by doing in studentfocused projects, engineering design, international exchange, and a signature grade 11 wilderness experience. Graduates attend many colleges, carefully matched for each student's learning style and goals. One of our graduates said, "Athenian is school as it should be."

Visit our website for more information about Fall events and visits as they become available

Tilden Preparatory School

T

ilden Prep is a unique, WASC-accredited, college-preparatory school for grades 6-12 that teaches U.C.-approved courses one-to-one and in small groups. We also use mastery learning, teaching students to 80 percent (B) or higher level of mastery before moving forward. This allows us to individualize the pace and teaching method to address a wide range of learning needs.

From highly gifted students who find a regular classroom setting too limiting to students with learning differences who need a specialized teaching approach to shine academically, we are working with students to maximize both their learning and their self-confidence.

1231 Solano Ave | Albany | 510-525-5506 1475 N. Broadway, Suite 200 Walnut Creek | 925-933-5506

We offer full-time enrollment, individual courses, and tutoring services.

1050 Bridgeway | Sausalito | 415-944-2254 www.tildenprep.com 48

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Presidio Hill School

E

stablished in 1918, Presidio Hill is a coed, TK-8 school with a rich and unique history in San Francisco. PHS has been providing generations of children with a progressive education that is engaging, relevant, and empowering. · Small nurturing environment –Guided by an expert and caring faculty, our 220 students are truly known and appreciated for who they are. · Challenging, project-based, integrated curriculum –Learning is fun, collaborative and active with an emphasis on deep understanding of concepts and creativity in problem solving.

3839 Washington Street San Francisco CA 94118 415-751-9318 www.presidiohill.org

· Developmentally attuned program –We meet children where they are and encourage them to their full potential through the development of self awareness, resiliency and personal character alongside intellectual stimulation. · Vibrant, diverse community – Cultivates mutual respect and the value of multiple perspectives and approaches.

Los Altos Christian Schools Los Altos Christian Schools provide a nurturing educational environment with rigorous academic programs paired with unique co-curricular opportunities to inspire student growth and lifelong learning.

Our teachers understand students. Classes are small and involve multiple methods of teaching allowing students of all learning differences to excel.

Integrated technology, cooperative learning, and project based instruction in the classroom enhances student engagement and prepares students for their future goals.

Our students are high achievers on standardized tests, diverse individuals in a cohesive learning environment, and thoughtful participants in our school and local community.

625 Magdalena Avenue Los Altos, CA 94024 650-948-3738 www.lacs.com More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

Please join us for an Open House November 7th 2020

Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Cambrian Academy

Cambrian Academy is the school for students who wish to be well prepared for admission to and success in top four-year colleges and universities.

In addition to strong academic preparation, we provide a unique class specially designed to help students through the college selection and application process. Cambrian Academy parents do not need to spend extra for learning centers or outside consultants to make sure their children get into great colleges.

Smart students are celebrated rather than bullied for being smart. Students who may have thought they were misfits find that they fit in. Older students naturally become mentors, and younger students remain engaged.

Keeping our enrollment capped and class sizes between four and twelve students provides many benefits. No student is left behind. Help is always available when needed. This allows us to know every student. The staff will know more about each student's strengths and interests than many other people in his or her life. A student couldn't hope for better advocates to write college recommendations.

Don't be misled by our small size. Social skills develop naturally here. We have countless success stories of turning introverts into outgoing group leaders.

Students are placed in classes based on their skill level or particular path to success, not by age or grade level. Look into any classroom, and you will see both younger and older students.

4340 Almaden Expressway | San Jose | 408-833-7050 www.cambrianacademy.org

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Athena Academy is a non-profit private school devoted to educating bright children with dyslexia.

The school is located on a spacious campus in Palo Alto.

Athena Academy's individualized education program teaches to our bright, creative, and capable dyslexic 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. Our small class sizes (6-9 students per class) allow us to further tailor each student's education and create a space where learning becomes joyful and success becomes possible.

525 San Antonio Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94306 650-543-4560 www.athenaacademy.org

Synapse School Educating a Community of Change Makers.

Leading-edge academics fully integrated with social emotional learning and innovation.

An independent elementary and middle school in Menlo Park, CA, Synapse offers an innovative academic curriculum fully integrated with socialemotional learning (SEL). 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, project-based learning in school-wide themes). We are curious, innovative, imaginative, creative, and we have fun!

3375 Edison Way Menlo Park, CA 94025 650-468-2204 www.synapseschool.org More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Athena Academy

SCHOOL PROFILES

Phillips Brooks School

Phillips Brooks School is an independent, coeducational day school offering a truly childcentered learning program for preschool through 5th grade, located in Menlo Park – neighboring Stanford University.

- PBS is a diverse community of families and educators committed to partnering in support of student learning.

- We offer intimate student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring that each child is known and loved by their teachers.

- Our Early Learning Center program engages our youngest students in creative, play-based, handson projects to teach early literacy, math, and problem-solving skills.

- Our innovative, rigorous, and research-based K–5 program blends literacy and math curricula with deep, experiential learning in world languages, visual art, music, and STEM. - PBS's unmatched Emotional Intelligence program, integrated throughout the curriculum, ensures that PBS students are set up for a lifetime of being eager learners and great people.

- Hire and develop inspiring teachers whose expertise and growth mindsets ensure a high-quality classroom experience - Embrace a child-centered philosophy; get to know and love each student - Build authentic partnerships with families By passionately pursuing core teaching beliefs that set us apart, we create the extraordinary every day at PBS. We guide children to cultivate their individual talents, explore, and dig deep while working and reflecting together. In the process, they discover their best selves – they flourish.

You can feel it the moment you step on campus: this is a place that’s open and vibrant, energized by students who are truly known by each adult and peer around them.

Here you’ll find engaged children who are fulfilled as they probe meaningful interests and who are challenged as they apply academic and social learning strategies customized for their developmental trajectory. They emerge as skilled, independent thinkers and empowered community builders who thrive intellectually as well as socially. PBS students know how to be learners, how to relate to one another, and who they are.

Our five promises: - Live our compelling mission and core values every day - Deliver a challenging and collaborative curriculum 2245 Avy Avenue | Menlo Park | 650-854-4545 www.phillipsbrooks.org

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We are a private K-8 school, fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The school offers a bilingual integrated curriculum with a strong emphasis in Math. Russian and English speaking teachers cooperatively teach each grade level to meet and exceed California state guidelines. Science, Computer class, art, music and physical activities are systematically integrated into learning activities.

Our students are ranked among the top 1 percent nationally in Math ( CTP4 assessments).

3301 Balboa Street San Francisco, CA 94121 415-800-0730 www.sanfranciscoacademy.org

Besides the outstanding academic environment, we have an AWESOME bilingual multicultural community of the supportive families! Visit our Facebook page to see the abundance of the events and activities our students are involved in: https://www.facebook.com/SanFranciscoAcademy

Jewish Community High School of the Bay JCHS is a unique college preparatory high school committed to integrating deep learning, universal wisdom, and Jewish values.

Located in San Francisco's Western Addition, the Jewish Community High School of the Bay (JCHS) is a unique college preparatory high school committed to integrating deep learning, universal wisdom, and Jewish values. We empower each student to embrace her or his Jewish identity, generate empathy and compassion, delight in lifelong education, and improve the world.

1835 Ellis Street San Francisco, CA 94115 415-345-9777 www.jchsofthebay.org More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

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SCHOOL PROFILES

San Francisco Pacific Academy

SCHOOL PROFILES

Futures Academy San Mateo

Futures Academy is a private, college-prep school that serves students who learn better outside the traditional classroom model. We believe students can reach their full potential with personalized instruction that instills confidence, character and the lifelong love of learning. On our campuses you will find close-knit communities that foster academic achievement and personal development.

In education, one size does not fit all. When an instructor tailors a teaching method to the unique needs of each student, the chances of learning success increases exponentially. Futures teachers use numerous techniques to present course work in creative and engaging ways, so students retain the information and enjoy the learning process. One-to-one education at Futures Academy allows for more individualized attention, less distractions, improved communication, and increased flexibility.

Grown from a single campus in 1985, Futures Academy now has 16 campuses and is committed to providing education solutions for families throughout California. The majority of our students have gone on to attend well-reputed colleges and universities.

• Choose from more than 170 courses, 32 Honors and 16 AP, as well as a variety of social activities and clubs.

• Futures helps students who struggle in the traditional classroom, such as those with ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, or social anxiety, or students with special scheduling needs such as athletes and artists • Futures helps gifted students and those wanting to accelerate by offering flexible scheduling along with Advanced Placement and other rigorous courses.

• Courses for credit, course remediation, and course acceleration options are available to both full-time and part-time students.

• Futures’ Summer School program offers the full course roster along with summer camps focused on math and writing skills, and small group classes focused on STEAM electives.

• Futures is WASC Accredited and UC, CSU & NCAA Approved. *Futures Academy is currently teaching 100% online in order to be compliant with the State of California regulations. We offer online, hybrid and on-campus courses based on state mandates due to Covid-19.

• In response to Covid-19, all classes are currently 100% online 1:1 instruction with one student, one teacher virtual classrooms* • Open enrollment is offered year-round for both full-time and part-time students.

1840 Gateway Drive, Suite 100 | San Mateo | 866-590-7549 www.futures4u.com

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Accreditation/ Associations

Belmont Charles Armstrong School (see pgs. 5, 41) 1405 Solana Drive Belmont • 650-592-7570 www.charlesarmstrong.org

Immaculate Heart of Mary School 1000 Alameda De Las Pulgas Belmont • 650-593-4265

Notre Dame Elementary School (see pgs. 31, 46) 1200 Notre Dame Avenue Belmont • 650-591-2209 www.nde.org

Serendipity School (see pgs. 7, 43) 2820 Ponce Avenue Belmont • 650-596-9100 www.serendipityschool.com

2-8 Co-Ed 14:2.5 250

Non Denominational Learning Difference: Dyslexia

Please Call FA Available

WASC, CAIS, NAIS

K-8 Co-Ed 266

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

PS-8 Co-Ed 18:1 150

Independent English, Spanish

$9,600 FA Available

WASC, WCEA

TK-5 Co-Ed 12:1 120

Non Denominational English, Spanish and Mandarin

$25,000 FA Available

WASC

PK-8 Co-Ed 10:1 250

Catholic English, Spanish

$5,000 $12,000

WASC, WCEA

K-12 Co-Ed 136

Non Denominational

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 311

Catholic

Please Call

PK - 8 Co-Ed 15:1 110

Non Denominational English, Spanish

$15,000 25%

PS-8 Co-Ed 23:1 366

Catholic

Please Call Varies

K-5 Co-Ed 20:1 200

Non Denominational Spanish in grades 2-5

Please Call

TK-5 Co-Ed 20:1 470

Non Sectarian Mandarin

$26,700 $27,500

Campbell Canyon Heights Academy 775 Waldo Road Campbell • 408-370-6727 www.canyonheightsacademy.com

Pioneer Family Academy 1799 South Winchester Boulevard Campbell • 408-313-5113

St. Lucy Parish School 76 Kennedy Avenue Campbell • 408-871-8023

WASC

Daly City Hilldale School 79 Florence St. Daly City • 650-756-4737 Hilldaleschool.org

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School 7 Elmwood Drive Daly City • 650-756-3395 www.olmbulldogs.com

WCEA, WASC NCEA

Foster City Kids Connection Elementary School 1998 Beach Park Blvd.

Foster City • 650-578-6691 kidsconnectionschools.com

Fremont BASIS Independent Fremont 3300 Kearney Street Fremont • 510-573-3435 www.fremont.basisindependent.com

More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

NAIS

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SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

BASIS Independent Fremont - Upper

6-12 Co-Ed 25:1 180

Non Sectarian Mandarin, French, Latin, Spanish

$27,500

PK-8 Co-Ed 20:1 250

Nondenominational

Call

PS-8 Co-Ed 22:1

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

PS to K Co-Ed 12:1

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

K-8 Co-Ed

Catholic English

Call

WASC

4-12 Co-Ed 6:1 325

Christian English, Mandarin, Spanish

HS $15,225 MS $13,375 EL $11,750 20%

WASC, ACSI, CAIS

PK-4 Co-Ed 10:1

Nondenominational English

Call

K-8 Co-Ed

Catholic English

Call

6-12 Co-Ed 6:1 366

Non Denominational French Spanish Mandarin

Please Call

K-9 Co-Ed 480

Non Denominational

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 135

Seventh-day Adventist

Please Call

39706 Mission Blvd Fremont • 510-738-6003 www.fremont.basisindependent.com

New Horizons School 2550 Peralta Blvd.

Fremont • 510-791-5683 www.newhorizonsschool.com

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 43077 Osgood Rd. Fremont • 510-438-9745 www.stratfordfremontosgood.com

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 38495 Fremont Bl. Fremont • 510-713-8900 www.stratfordfremontblvd.com

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

NAIS

Hayward All Saints Catholic School 22870 Second St. Hayward • 510-582-1910 www.allsaintshayward.org/school

California Crosspoint Academy, (See pgs. 13, 42) 25500 Industrial Blvd Hayward • 510-995-5333 www.crosspointacademy.org

Lea’s Christian School 26236 Adrian Ave. Hayward • 510-785-0334 www.leaschristianschool.org

St. Bede School 26910 Patrick Ave. Hayward • 510-782-3444 www.mystbede.org

WASC

Hillsborough Crystal Springs Uplands School 400 Uplands Dr. Hillsborough • 650-342-4175 www.csus.org

The Nueva School 6565 Skyline Boulevard Hillsborough • 650-350-4600

WASC

Los Altos Miramonte Elementary 1175 Altamead Drive Los Altos • 650-967-2783

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

SCHOOL LISTINGS LISTINGS SCHOOL

Private Schools

Accreditation/ Associations

Los Gatos St. Mary’s School 30 Lyndon Avenue Los Gatos • 408-354-3944

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 220 Kensington Way Los Gatos • 408-371-3020 www.stratfordlosgatos.com

K-8 Co-Ed 297

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

PS - Grade 4 Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS-12 Co-Ed 6:1 260

International Baccalaureate German, Spanish, French

$24,600 $34,400

WASC, IBO

K-8 Co-Ed 6:1 170

Non Denominational

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 272

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

3yrs-8th Gr Co-Ed 6:1 252

Non Denominational Spanish

Nursery $17,900 K-8 $24,100 FA Available

PEN

PS - Grade 8 Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 ES-MS 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

9-12 Co-Ed 1753

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 200

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

Menlo Park Alto School, (see pgs. 17, 45) 475 Pope Street Menlo Park • 650-324-8617 www.altoschool.org

Beechwood School 50 Terminal Avenue Menlo Park • 650-327-5052 www.beechwoodschool.org

Nativity Catholic School 1250 Laurel Street Menlo Park • 650-325-7304

Peninsula School (see pgs. 9, 37) 920 Peninsula Way Menlo Park • 650-325-1584 www.peninsulaschool.org

Milpitas Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 341 Great Mall Pkwy Milpitas • 408-262-6200 www.stratfordmilpitas.com

Morgan Hill Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 410 Llagas Road Morgan Hill • 408-776-8801 www.stratfordmorganhill.com

Mountain View St. Francis High School 1885 Miramonte Avenue Mountain View • 650-968-1213

St. Joseph School 1120 Miramonte Avenue Mountain View • 650-967-1839

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SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Yew Chung International School

K-5 Co-Ed 108

Non Denominational

Please Call

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-K Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

2-8 Co-Ed 6:1 76

Independent

$46,400 FA Available

WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 255

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

PS - Grade 8 Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

6-8 Girls Only 1:8 199

Independent Spanish

$28,000 20%

WASC, CAIS

K-8 Co-Ed 300

Catholic

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 24:1 215

Lutheran Spanish

$8,470 Needs Based

310 Easy Street Mountain View • 650-903-0986 www.sv.ycef.com

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

WASC

Newark Challenger School - Ardenwood (see pgs 2, 39) 35487 Dumbarton Court Newark • 510-739-0300 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ newark/ardenwood

Challenger School - Newark (see pgs 2, 39) 39600 Cedar Boulevard Newark • 510-770-1771 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ newark

Palo Alto Challenger School - Middlefield (see pgs 2, 39) 3880 Middlefield Road Palo Alto • 650-213-8245 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ palo-alto/middlefield

Sand Hill School at Children’s Health Council (see pgs 35, 38, Back Cover) 650 Clark Way Palo Alto • 650-688-3605 www.sandhillschool.org

St. Elizabeth Seton 1095 Channing Avenue Palo Alto • 650-326-9004

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 870 North California Avenue Palo Alto • 650-493-1151 www.stratfordpaloalto.com

The Girls’ Middle School 3400 West Bayshore Rd Palo Alto • 650-968-8338 www.girlsms.org

Redwood City Our Lady of Mt. Carmel 301 Grand Street Redwood City • 650-366-6127

Redeemer Lutheran School 468 Grand Street Redwood City • 650-366-3466 www.redeemer-school.org

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WASC, NLSA

More Schools at www.ParentsPress.com

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

St. Pius Elementary

K-8 Co-Ed 317

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

18 months - 8 Co-Ed 24:1

Non Denominational Spanish Mandarin

varies by grade level (see website)

ACSI, WASC

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

K-8 Co-Ed 4:1 50

Non Denominational English, Spanish

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 306

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

9-12 Boys Only 10:1 700

Catholic Spanish ASL Russian Chinese

$17,410 Varies

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 449

Non Denominational

Please Call

WASC

K-12 Co-Ed 958

Non Denominational French

Please Call

WASC

9-12 Co-Ed 12:1 1,320

Catholic English Spanish French Japanese Mandarin ASL

$23,250 $5 million in FA - over 330 students received

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 15:1 145

Roman Catholic English

$6,070 $7,500

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 604

Non Denominational

Please Call

WASC

1100 Woodside Road Redwood City • 650-368-8327

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Accreditation/ Associations

San Bruno Highlands Christian Schools 1900 Monterey Drive San Bruno • 650-873-4090 www.HighlandsChristianSchools.com

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 2322 Crestmoor Drive San Bruno • 650-837-9222 www.stratfordsanbruno.com

San Carlos Arbor Bay School 1017 Cedar Street San Carlos • 650-631-9999 www.arborbayschool.org

St. Charles Elementary 850 Tamarack Avenue San Carlos • 650-593-1629

San Francisco Archbishop Riordan High School 175 Phelan Avenue San Francisco • 415-586-8200 www.riordanhs.org

Chinese American International School 150 Oak Street San Francisco • 415-865-6000

French American International School 150 Oak Street San Francisco • 415-558-2022 www.frenchamericansf.org

Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory (see pgs 32-33, 36) 1055 Ellis Street San Francisco • 415-772-6626 www.shcp.edu

St. Anthony-Immaculate Conception (see p. 19) 299 Precita Avenue San Francisco • 415-628-2008 Principal: Barbara Moodie www.saicsf.org

St. Cecilia Elementary 660 Vicente Street San Francisco • 415-731-8400

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59

SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

St. Charles Elementary

K-8 Co-Ed 164

Non Denominational

Please Call

WASC

9-12 Co-Ed 1,468

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 14:1 207

Catholic Spanish

$6,850 FA Available

WASC

K - Grade 5 Co-Ed K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS-6 Co-Ed 12:1(PS) 15:1(K-6)

Independent English, Mandarin

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

6-8 Co-Ed 15:1

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

PS-PK Co-Ed 12:1(PS) 15:1(K)

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

5-12 Co-Ed 8:1 800

Independent Mandarin, French, Latin, Spanish

$30,700

1290 Parkmoor Avenue San Jose • 408-291-0907 www.siliconvalley.basisindependent.com

Challenger School - Almaden, (see pgs 2, 39)

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

3250 18th Street San Francisco • 415-861-7652

St. Ignatius College Preparatory 2001 37th Avenue San Francisco • 415-731-7500

St. Paul’s School 1690 Church Street San Francisco • 415-713-7818 www.stpaulschoolsf.org

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 301 DeMontfort Avenue San Francisco • 415-333-3134 www.stratfordsfdemontfort.com

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 645 14th Ave. San Francisco • 415-742-4254 www.stratfordsf14.com

Stratford Middle School (see pgs 19, 45) 75 St. Francis Street San Francisco • 415-715-8648 www.stratfordsfms.com

Stratford School Parkside (see pgs 19, 45) 2425 19th Ave. San Francisco • 415-564-6250 www.stratfordsfparkside.com

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

San Jose BASIS Independent Silicon Valley

19950 McKean Road San Jose • 408-927-5771 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ san-jose/almaden

Challenger School - Berryessa, (see pgs 2, 39) 711 East Gish Road San Jose • 408-998-2860 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ san-jose/berryessa

Challenger School - Harwood, (see pgs 2, 39) 4949 Harwood Road San Jose • 408-723-0111 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ san-jose/harwood

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Challenger School - Shawnee, (see pgs 2, 39)

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

K-12 Co-Ed 10:1 2,045

Independent

$41,400 $53,800

K-8 Co-Ed 528

Catholic

Please Call

K-8 Co-Ed 25:1 470

Catholic English, Spanish grades K-4

$5,740 $6,220 Need Based

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 286

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 323

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

K-12 Co-Ed 260

Catholic

Please Call

WASC

5-8 Co-Ed 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS Co-Ed 120

Non Denominational Education Based Center Developmentally Appropriate

$2,410/ month

WASC, PACE, ASCD

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Accreditation/ Associations

500 Shawnee Lane San Jose • 408-365-9298 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ san-jose/shawnee

Challenger School - Strawberry Park, (see pgs 2, 39) 730 Camina Escuela San Jose • 408-213-0083 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ san-jose/strawberry-park

The Harker School, (see pgs. 3, 40) 500 Saratoga Ave San Jose • 408-249-2510 www.harker.org

Holy Spirit 1198 Redmond Avenue San Jose • 408-268-0794 www. holyspirit-school.org

St. John Vianney 4601 Hyland Avenue San Jose • 408-258-7677

St. Leo the Great School 1051 West San Fernando Street San Jose • 408-293-4846

St. Martin of Tours School 300 O’Connor Drive San Jose • 408-287-3631

St. Patrick Elementary 51 North Ninth Street San Jose • 408-283-5858

Stratford Middle School (see pgs 19, 45) 1718 Andover Lane San Jose • 408-626-0001 www.stratfordsanjosems.com

Stratford School (see pgs 19, 45) 6670 San Anselmo Way San Jose • 408-363-2130 www.stratfordsanjose.com

CAIS, NAIS WASC

San Mateo Serendipity Preschool (see pgs. 7, 43) 3172 Clearview Way San Mateo • 650-574-7400 www.serendipityschool.com

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

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SCHOOL LISTINGS

Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Santa Clara Monticello Academy 3345 Lochinvar Avenue Santa Clara • 408-615-9416

Stratford School Pomeroy (see pgs 19, 45) 890 Pomeroy Avenue Santa Clara • 408-244-4073 www.stratfordsantaclarapomeroy.com

Stratford School Winchester (see pgs 19, 45) 400 N. Winchester Boulevard Santa Clara • 408-244-2121 www.stratfordsantaclarawinchester.com

K-8 Co-Ed 336

Non Denominational

WASC

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS - Grade 2 Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational

$3,740 $18,850

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

PS - Elem Co-Ed PS 12:1, K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

6-8 Co-Ed 22:1 Varies

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

6-12 Co-Ed 12:1 882

Non Denominational Christ-centered College Preparatory Spanish, French, Mandarin

$20,550 $22,900 22% of Families

ACSI, WASC

Saratoga Challenger School - Saratoga, (see pgs 2, 39) 18811 Cox Avenue Saratoga • 408-378-0444 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ saratoga

Sunnyvale Challenger School - Sunnyvale, (see pgs 2, 39) 1185 Hollenbeck Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-245-7170 www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/ sunnyvale

Stratford School Washington Park (see pgs 19, 45) 820 West McKinley Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-737-1500 www.stratfordsunnyvalewashpark.com

Stratford School De Anza Park (see pgs 19, 45) 1196 Lime Drive Sunnyvale • 408-732-4424 www.stratfordsunnyvaledeanza.com

Stratford School Middle (see pgs 19, 45) 1500 Partridge Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-247-4400 www.stratfordsunnyvaleraynorms.com

The King’s Academy (see p. 11, 47) 562 N. Britton Avenue Sunnyvale • 408-481-9900 www.tka.org

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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What Does Accreditation Mean?

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.

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.

“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

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 associations 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). 

A Key to Private School Accreditations, Affiliations, and Associations Here is a list of the accrediting, affiliation, and association bodies that schools list in our Regional Guide to Private Schools.

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 Association www.bayareamontessoriassociation.com 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

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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 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 PACE — Professional Association for Childhood Education www.pacenet.org PEN — Progressive Education Network www.progressiveeducationnetwork.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 SSS — School & Student Services by NAIS www.sss.nais.org WASC — Western Association of Schools and Colleges www.wascweb.org WCEA — Western Catholic Education Association www.westwcea.org WDA — Weltverband Deutscher Auslandsschulen www.auslandsschulnetz.de

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