Parents Press November 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

2020 - 2021 GUIDE TO

FIND THE RIGHT EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR CHILD PG. 24

PS CAMPUS

PS HOME

At Prospect Sierra, whether on campus or at home and caring people who strive to build a bette

prospects 2

Parents Press | November 2020

Bay Area Green Business - NAIS Model School of the Future - Ashoka C

PS JOY

e, we help your children become successful students er world. At the heart of everything we do is joy.

sierra.org

Changemaker School - US Department of Education Green Ribbon School

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF

WINNER3 November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

Contents

www.parentspress.com Volume 40 • Number 3

NOVEMBER 2020

11

What’s Inside 6 Good to Know

24

2020 -2021

• Art of Gratitude • Voted Most Popular • Kitchen Safety

10 Great Reads

Kids Books that You’ll Sneak a Peak At

16 Be My Neighbor:

Helping Kids Connect to Their Community

Find the Right Educational Experience for your Child 24 Why Consider Private Schools?

25 Private School Listings 34 Financial Aid: Basic Information You Should Know 35 Basic Timeline for Applying to a Private School 4

Parents Press | November 2020

18 Debt-Free Holidays How to give gifts and not break the bank

22 Teen Dating

How Young is Too Young?

Mailing Address 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421, Alameda, CA 94502 Publisher Parenting Media, Inc Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to locations throughout the Bay Area.

Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com

Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2020 Parents’ Press

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

5

Good to Know Private School Guide

F

inding the right school for your child is not easy.

We just made the task easier with the 2020 edition of our Private School Guide which is now available with information on how to choose the school that’s the best fit for your family, timeline for applying, what to look for when visiting your schools of choice, all available at ParentsPress.com in the “Our Magazines” tab.

Drawbacks of Being Voted

Most Popular

The Art of Gratitude

A

A

recent study out of the University of Virginia found children voted as “most popular” at age 15 was found to be a significant predictor of having higher rates of social anxiety at age 25 than the students who were less preferred as someone to spend time with. The researchers found that the students who had strong close friendships, as opposed to being most liked, in their teens showed a relative decrease in depressive symptoms and a relative increase in self-worth measurements from 15 to 25.

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Parents Press | November 2020

gratitude journal is a great way to teach kids how to appreciate and focus on the positives in life. Each day your child can write or draw pictures of the people, places or things in their life that are important and appreciated. Focusing on the positives each day is tremendously up lifting emotionally. This positive way to start or end the day will create an emotion that will carry throughout the day. Kid focused gratitude journals can be bought or handmade, be word or art focused. Even using magazine photo cutouts, pasted into the journal works. The key is to spend a few moments each day and think about what is important to happiness. Be grateful!

Berkeley City Ballet berkeleycityballet.org Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF WINNER

Join class from home!

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Ages 2 and up Boys ballet Dance camps Birthday parties

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photo : andy mogg

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

7

Good to Know

Kitchen Safety Margaret McCabe BA, CPST

T

he kitchen can be one of the most joyful rooms in the home. It is the place for family dinners, birthday celebrations and after school snacks. Unfortunately, the kitchen is also one of the most dangerous rooms of the home due to the occurrence of unintentional injuries. Burns from the stove, scalds, cuts from sharp knives and the accidental ingestion of cleaning supplies are all injuries to be aware of while in the kitchen. With the presence of kids in the home, it is important to be educated on kitchen safety. Thankfully, 90% of injuries can be prevented. Here are some ways to keep kids safe in the kitchen: SUPERVISION: The best way to prevent kids from being injured in the kitchen is to supervise them, or not let them into the kitchen at all. Make sure you set clear rules like, 1) Do not enter the kitchen without an adult, 2) No touching the stove or oven 3) No touching the knives and 4) Always wash your hands. If your kids would like to help out in the kitchen, some safe tasks they can assist the cook with include: setting the table, rinsing produce, stirring ingredients and shucking corn.

BURN PREVENTION: When cooking, it’s important to use the burners towards the back of the stove first. Back burners are the safest because they are out of reach of young children. When using pots and pans, be sure to turn the handles inwards to make sure little ones cannot reach and pull the pots or pans off the stove and burn themselves. Never let you kids play with pots and pans for fun, because they may confuse them as toys when they’re hot on the stove. Stove top guards can be used to help prevent kids from touching hot objects.

POISON PREVENTION: Accidental ingestion is another cause for injury within the kitchen. Most families keep cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink. Cleaning supplies, such as Tide Pods or Clorox, smell good and can come in attractive colors, appearing to be juice or candy that kids want to eat. Be sure to use a child-resistant lock to prevent your child from accessing. If your child has ingested a potentially toxic chemical, always call your local Poison Control Center. MA Poison Prevention and Control Center can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your budding chef safe from injury.

National Steam Day

DID YOU KNOW that every year in November

there is a very special day to celebrate learning?

Learning in subjects like science, technology, engineering, art, and math? It’s National STEAM Day on November 8th. Why choose November 8th for a day that celebrates creativity, learning, and innovation? Because it can be abbreviated NOV8, i.e. innovate. So let’s all go innovate on November 8th.

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Parents Press | September 2020

Going to the Dentist should be FUN!

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF WINNER

Renie Ikeda, DDS, MS Straty Righellis, DDS Aloha Pediatric Dentistry | 3 East Bay Locations 2640 Telegraph Avenue #101, Berkeley | (510) 848-6494 906 Ensenada Avenue, North Berkeley | (510) 528-1546 3 Altarinda Road #210, Orinda | (925) 253-8190 AlohaKidsDDS.com

Always Practicing The Four C’s

Care • Concern • Comfort • Convenience For the whole family

510.482.0600 www.RighellisOrtho.com

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Aloha Pediatric Dentistry

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Real Patients, Real Smiles They’ve got a great dentist.

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cosmetic and general dentistry teeth whitening with Zoom! aesthetic restoration character teeth for stage and film dental implants

Single Visit Crowns

Thank you Alameda for voting us the best dentist!

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Your Maui Home

Best Pediatric Dentist

Bay Area Parent Family Favorite Winner in the East Bay

510.865.2900 • www.AlamedaDentist.com 1821 Santa Clara Avenue • Alameda November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

9

Great Reads Kids Books that You’ll Sneak a Peak At

T

HE BIG FAT NOTEBOOK® SERIES, a revolutionary study guide series created by the editors of America’s No. 1 educational bestseller Brain Quest, has been a lifesaver during distance learning. Each indispensable study guide is like getting to borrow the notebook of the smartest student in class, with highlighted key concepts, doodles that illuminate tricky ideas, mnemonics, and more. Covering subjects such as middle school math, science, world history, American history, English language arts and the latest subject, computer science and coding, these guides are extremely helpful to the student (and the distance learning assisting adult!) to be able to navigate key school subjects without frustration! Workman Publishing, $14.95.

H

W

e all know what the Constitution is, yet so many, including the next generation of leaders and voters, do not know the meaning behind its words or its true history. THE CONSTITUTION DECODED: A GUIDE TO THE DOCUMENT THAT SHAPES OUR NATION by Katie Kennedy seeks to change that. An accessible yet richly layered work written clearly and simply to explain the Constitution word by word, idea by idea, it gives young readers a true understanding of not only how the Framers envisioned the United States, but also why they made the choices they did. For example, did you know that the First Amendment (the freedom of speech), is not the first amendment because the Framer’s thought it was the most important, but because there were two other amendments which didn’t make it into the final document? And that the Thirteenth Amendment, which proclaimed the abolition of slavery in 1865, was actually not ratified by all of the states immediately? (Mississippi did not officially submit the proper documentation to ratify the amendment until 2013.) The perfect gift for the budding activist or anyone interested in the history of this country, The Constitution Decoded gives young readers the knowledge they need to be active, engaged citizens and informed voters of tomorrow.

Workman Publishing, $16.95.

OW TO ASTRONAUT: AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO LEAVING PLANET EARTH by Terry Virts, one of only four astronauts in history to have piloted a space shuttle, flown a Russian Soyuz spacecraft, performed space walks, and commanded the ISS, is a book for everyone who wants to know what space travel is really like.

From fighter jets to unwieldy space AINT BY STICKER KIDS: DINOSAURS is the ultimate suits, space station cuisine, and an activity book for young dinosaur enthusiasts and uncensored look at answering the call of nature in zero-G aspiring paleontologists. Kids will love piecing and from bad bosses to bureaucratic nightmares, this offbeat together images of the prehistoric creatures they love, and often hilarious collection of short, readable essays gives including a ferocious T-Rex, an armored Ankylosaurus, a sneak peek behind the curtain of real astronaut life. an agile Velociraptor, and more! The way it works is Workman Publishing, $27.95 simple: Find the numbered sticker, peel it, and place it in the correct space. And with PAINT BY STICKER KIDS: TORIES OF THE SAINTS: BOLD CHRISTMAS the fun continues. From a sparkling Christmas AND INSPIRING TALES OF tree to a fluffy snowman, this activity book is packed with ADVENTURE, GRACE, AND ten playful illustrations that will get every kid in the holiday COURAGE by Carey Wallace introduces spirit! Workman Publishing, $9.95. young readers to stories of faith that are as amazing as Greek myths and as enthralling as folktales like Robin Hood and the Knights of the Round Table. An inspiring collection of epic legends about men and women whose lives were touched by faith, Stories of the Saints conveys these beloved tales in a fresh, accessible way. Workman Publishing, $24.95.

P

S

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Parents Press | November 2020

Gift Guide

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

Jambo Books

Go! Go! Cory Carson® Cory’s Stay & Play Home™

Give a boxful of children’s book featuring characters of color.

Members receive 2-3 books each month that feature diverse children as the stars of their own stories. Starting at $34.99, ages Birth-13, http://www.jambobooks.com

Explore every room with Cory, Mama and Chrissy Carson mini characters in this 360° playset. Built just for cars with a pretend bathtub car wash complete with scrub brush, ramps and more. Place any SmartPoint® character (sold separately) on the SmartPoint® location to hear them talk, play music and light up. $39.99, ages: 2+, https://www.vtechkids. com/product/detail/19477/Go_Go_Cory_Carson_Corys_Stay_ and_Play_Home

Rainbocorns Big Hair Surprise The ultimate giant surprise egg comes with over 30 hairmazing surprises including Big Hair Boo-Boocorns, colorful hair extensions, a giant hair clip, Pop & Swap heart gems and more. $49.99, ages 3+, https://zuru.com/

Designed By Me: Color Decor Dollhouse Budding artists and decorators can bring imaginary worlds to life with a variety of coloring backgrounds and a chimney box of markers. $59.99, ages 3 years +, http://www. kidkraft.com Continued on pg. 12 >>>

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

11

Gift Guide <<< Continued from pg. 11

Back to the Future: Dice Through Time It’s up to you to help Doc and Marty repair the spacetime continuum before time paradoxes unravel the very fabric of the universe. Jump in your time machine, complete events, return items, and help restore temporal order. $29.99, ages 10+, https://www. target.com/p/backto-the-future-dicethrough-time-boardgame/-/A-79396332

Veterinarian Practice with Pets Lovingly treat a variety of animal patients back to health.

Includes X-ray image hanging on the wwall, examination table, doctor’s case and much more. $59.99, ages 3-8, https://www. schleich-s.com/en/US/farm-world/products/veterinarian-practice-with-pets-42502.html

PRIZM fx-CG500 This calculator with a large, soft keyboard and convenient drop-down menus, the PRIZM fx-CG500 is easy to use and includes a high-resolution, color, touchscreen LCD display (over 65,000 colors!). It also includes a Color Link function for graphs, charts and spreadsheets and is permitted for use on the AP, SAT I and II, PSAT and NMSQT exams. Casioeducation.com, $129.99. Plus, distance learning support at Casioeducation.com/remote learning!

100 Animals Book™ Hold 100 animals in your hands with the touch-sensitive pages featuring 12 habitats and environments.

Switch the language setting to hear about the animals and listen to songs in either English or Spanish. $17.99, ages 18+ months, https://store.leapfrog.com/en-us/store/p/100-animals-book/_/A-prod80-609540

Monster Jam Megalodon Storm A remote control vehicle that can dominate water AND attack land.

Performance tires will allow you to conquer any terrain – water, dirt, rock, snow while performing 360 degree spins and wheelies. $49.99, ages 4+, https://www.spinmaster.com

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Parents Press | November 2020

Healthy Roots Dolls: Zoe Doll Meet Zoe, who has learned to love her hair, specially designed with curl power that allows it to be washed and styled with real products. She wants all kids to love their curls too. $79.99, ages 6+, https://healthyrootsdolls.com/

Continued on pg. 14 >>>

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

www.eastshorepediatricdental.com

Are Are youyou pregnant, pregnant,breastfeeding, breastfeeding, or have children or have childrenunder under 5?

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We are Working providing services over the phone families may Working families may during COVID-19, call 510-981-5360 be eligible for WIC!

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be eligible for WIC!

For more information and to

For more information and to see if you qualify, contact: see if you qualify, contact: City of Berkeley WIC Program

– Full and part time – permanent nanny placement – Live in or live out – – All candiates – personally screened

Phone 925.743.0587 www.nannyconnection.com

Full and half-day programs available Before and after school care Open 7am - 6pm

(Medi-Cal andand CHDP) Families, CHDP other programs) Do you with health care?

Do community you while are pregnant?

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Doneed you care need careyou while you call Berkeley Public Health at Berkeley 510-981-5300. are pregnant?

Please call Public Health at 510-981-5300.

We canhelp helpwith with community forincome low and middle incomeHealthy families.

We can programs for lowprograms and middle families.

(Medi-Cal, (Medi-Cal andand CHDP) Families, CHDP other community programs)

Montessori Children’s Center

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830 University City of Berkeley WICAve Program Berkeley,Ave CA 94710 830 University 510.981.5360 Berkeley, CA 94710 Migrant families are welcome!

510.981.5360 wicprogram@cityofberkeley.info Migrant Visit families are welcome! us at www.cityofberkeley.info/publichealth wicprogram@cityofberkeley.info Do you with health care?

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Please Do youneed needhelp help with health care?

Doneed you care need careyou while you call Berkeley Public Health at Berkeley 510-981-5300. pregnant?

Please call Public Health at 510-981-5300.

Visit us atare www.cityofberkeley.info/publichealth We canhelp helpwith with community forincome low and middle incomeHealthy families.

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This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

The school for your child: a health conscious, culturally responsive, joyful environment.

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PP EB MAR 2014_1-16.26rm.indd 11

An Authentic Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten Lic #384001313

Serving children ages 2 - 6

80 Juan Bautista Circle | San Francisco | 415.333.4410 montessorichildrenscenter.org

Preschool Hands-on learning in a small, group environment 12– 14 children ages 3 – 5 years

THE CHILD UNIQUE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

The Creative Play Center’s program provides a rich, nurturing environment in which creative play and learning takes place.

Preschool is 9 am until 1 pm - (extended hours available)

2226 Encinal Ave., Alameda 510.521.0595 office@thechildunique.org www.thechildunique.org

CPC is currently accepting applications for 2020

(510) 524-9399

www.CreativePlayCenterAlbany.com

1151 Portland Ave., Albany, CA 94706

Lic. #010204748

Offering a Year Round Academic Montessori Program Preschool Program (ages 2-5) Kindergarten Program Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Full-day program: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

510-430-1322

Oak Grove Learning

Hwy 580 • Keller Ave exit 8115 Fontaine Street • Oakland 94605

Now Enrolling – Virtual Tour on website!

admin@oakgrovelearning.com www.OakGroveLearning.com License 013423093

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

13

Gift Guide <<< Continued from pg. 12

BUENOS DÍAS – Spanish Learning Songs

Rainbow Jellies Magically create your own collection of squishy characters.

Inside the cloud full of magical surprises reveal and select a sweet face, tuft of floofy hair, pop and squeeze the magic goo to create a custom-made bubbly, quirky and adorable squishy characters. $19.99, ages 6-8 years, https://spinmaster.com

Smashers Dino Ice Age Surprise Smash, fizz, build and battle. The giant blue dino egg comes with over 25 different icy surprises inside. Follow the arctic scratch map through different ice age themed compounds to uncover each piece of your Smash-O-Saur. $ 24.99, ages 4+, https://www.target.com/p/smashers-giant-dino-thawegg-series-4/-/A-79416634

A celebration of the vibrant music, language, and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. Irresistible salsa, merengue, flamenco, reggae, and Andean rhythms encourage kids to sing along as they learn traditional foods, animals, songs, instruments, and more. $14.99 (CD), $9.99 (download), all ages, https://www.whistlefritz.com/

Real-Action Fire Engine Features a ladder that extends to over 2 feet high and rotates a full 360 degrees, a retractable fire hose and more. The truck opens to reveal an exciting command center with all kinds of authentic details built right in—from a radio and a computer to tools and gear. $49.99, ages 3+ years, https://www.lakeshorelearning.com

Cool Maker Hollywood Hair DIY studio that lets you design your own hair extensions. Load the hair ribbon, press the button and watch as it magically transforms into a cute hair extension.

Comes with curler and spray bottle. $24.99, ages 8+, https://www.spinmaster.com/

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Parents Press | November 2020

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be?

Parents’ Press

www.nomurapreschool.com

Lic. #070209834

2020

BEST OF WINNER

A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church

- Friday 7am - 6pm A ministry of Monday Bay Area Chinese Bible Church lunch service provided

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TTPreschoolalameda.org Facility # 013422027

• Ages 2-5 Years and Bridge K • Nurturing Academic Environment • Preparation for Kindergarten

• Two Expansive Campuses • Potty Training Available • Covid-19 Safety Protocols

Telephone # 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 Fax # 510-373-2241

Now Enrolling for 2021-2022 School Year

1803 North Loop Rd | Alameda | Facility # 013422027 kim.smith@bacbc.org 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 | kim.smith@bacbc.org

1629 Carlson Blvd., Richmond Annex 94804

Admissions - 510-526-7847 ext.2

Dynamic Education The Optimizing Each Child’s Potential NOW ENROLLING Child Day Schools, LLCCall for More Information • Language & Literacy • Math & Science • Problem Solving Parents’ • Art & Creativity Press BEST OF • Social Skills 2020 TOP 5 Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers

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November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

15

N

By Malia Jacobson

eighborhoods—and connections within local communities—have never mattered more. Per research, where children live, play and attend school impacts everything from how much they exercise to their grades. Studies also show that “social embeddedness,” or strong ties to social and cultural relationships within the neighborhood, can boost kids’ social, emotional, and academic outcomes.

As families plan to stay closer to home through 2021, neighborhoods provide important opportunities for socialization, connection, and play. Like growing a garden, cultivating a richly connected neighborhood takes time and effort, but families can reap rewards for years. Here’s how to create social connectedness in your corner of the world.

EARLY YEARS 0-5

Let’s roll CREATING A CONNECTED COMMUNITY starts with getting to know your neighborhood and your neighbors, says Catherine Bagwell, professor of psychology at Oxford College of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

“One of the most important ways to foster relationships with neighbors is to create opportunities for children to have frequent, positive contact and interactions with them,” she says.

Often, this simply means playing outdoors, from a driveway game of hopscotch to a backyard soccer

16

Parents Press | September 2020

scrimmage. Help kids get to know their area by creating a scavenger hunt that includes specific neighborhood landmarks, and ask other kids on the block to participate. For a safe, socially distanced outdoor activity for little ones, create a regular weekend “Roll and Stroll” or “Wagons and Wheels” playdate to bring kids together outside.

ELEMENTARY YEARS 6-12

Safe spots REMEMBER LONG HOURS spent roaming your childhood neighborhood? Many adults do, but kids today don’t get nearly as much unsupervised outdoor time as their parents did, mainly because of concerns about safety. When neighborhoods are viewed as less safe, kids spend more time inside, get less exercise, and are less connected to their communities, according to research. Per Bright Horizons Family Solutions, a child care provider, helping kids feel safer in their community fosters a healthier, more balanced perspective to counteract the sometimes-scary world depicted by news reports.

Families concerned about neighborhood safety can establish guidelines for outdoor play, like checking in with parents every hour or always coming home by nightfall, and explore community centers where kids can play with their peers in a more supervised setting.

Devices like the GizmoGadget, GizmoPal, or Tinitell GPS watches provide GPS tracking and basic phone service to give parents peace of mind while kids enjoy “free range” neighborhood play.

TEEN YEARS 13-18

Grass roots

BY THE TEEN YEARS, kids may be too involved in school and extracurricular pursuits to spend much time on unstructured, run-around-the-neighborhood play. But for entrepreneurial teens, or any kids motivated by earning some extra cash, starting a neighborhood business can build community connections along with independence, social skills and earning power.

A quick look around the neighborhood can help teens determine which type of business might flourish—are there lots of lawns in need of care? Professionals who travel and need pet or housesitting? Or would a car-washing or dog-walking business work best? Handing out business cards or flyers around the neighborhood helps teens make face-to-face con-

The Model School

nections with people in their immediate area. Meeting the neighbors and earning money are the immediate benefits, but learning about neighborhood needs and figuring out a way to fill them is an exercise with longterm learning value.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published journalist. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

PRESCHOOLS

Enrolling Now: An Established Montessori School Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year round or school year enrollment available

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November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

17

It

By Kerrie McLoughlin

happens earlier and earlier every year. The holiday music starts playing at the start of November, and the stores have holiday items out before Halloween is even over.

AND THE COMMERCIALS FOR TOYS! That’s when I really start to feel anxious. And what will we get for our relatives this year? How will we show our appreciation for people like teachers and daycare providers without burning up our credit card? Don’t worry … here’s some help!

1

5

2

6

Have a plan. Yes, this means using that dirty word:

budget. I set up a budget in Excel every year and love it because I can easily set formulas to add and subtract for me.

This way I can play with numbers to see how much I actually have available to spend on each person on my shopping list. If doing a budget in Excel isn’t your thing, head to www. homeeverafter.com/christmas-shopping-list-planner-budgetspreadsheet-free-printable for a free downloadable and printable holiday budget planner.

Rack up the credit card reward points, but only if you can handle it.

If your credit card has a rewards program where you can get gift cards based on how much money you put on your credit card, use it. Caution: you must be able to pay off every cent you put on by the due date. If you don’t have it budgeted, don’t spend it. I’m able to earn a few hundred dollars’ worth of gift cards for holiday spending every year using this system, which I can then use to shop or just give the gift card as a gift itself.

If you go to http://www.creditcards.com/reward.php, they compare the top credit card reward programs for you.

3

Rack up the MyPoints. I’ve been a member

of www.MyPoints.com for many years and have earned gift cards not only by reading emails (5 points each), but by sometimes spending money with certain merchants they support. I’m quickly working toward saving up 10,000 MyPoints, which will equal $50 cash in my PayPal account.

The bonus is that I use my credit card to purchase gifts I would have bought anyway, so I double my holiday earning power.

4

Make it yourself! Gifts in a jar (www.

TipJunkie.com/jar-homemade-gifts), like cookie, cake, pie and drink mixes and other homemade treats always go over well, and they are cheap to make! Put them in reusable containers, and you’ve gone green, as well!

18

Parents Press | November 2020

Give up on trying to impress. Sure,

the mailman would dig a $100 gift card to a local restaurant, and your sitter would love a $100 iTunes card, but you probably can’t afford that or you wouldn’t be reading this article. Do what you can and let people appreciate you for who you are!

Sell stuff. Getting rid of your clutter not only

makes you money, but it also makes room for incoming holiday gifts. You can sell books, toys, clothes, movies, music and more at consignment shops, www.Craigslist.com or even throw a garage sale if you’re really feeling industrious!

7

Buy used. Now that your “trash” is going out

of your house, you can find “treasure” at thrift shops, consignment shops, garage sales, www.Craigslist.com, www.Amazon.com and www.eBay.com. What a great way to save at least 50% on items you’re looking for.

8

Buy nothing! To stay out of debt, consider

not buying a gift for your spouse and letting him or her know you want nothing but to live a debt-free life full of security and hope for the future. If you just can’t stomach that, it can be a fun time trying to find something for each other on a $10 budget each! A love poem is free and goes a long way in my house.

Kerrie McLoughlin blogs at TheKerrieShow.com about her roller coaster ride life homeschooling 5 kids.

SCHOOLS

Discover why families have been returning for generations.

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TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE

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Parents’ Press

2020

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1335 High Street, Alameda, CA 94501 • 510-521-0787

school.spnalameda.org • facebook.com/saintphilipnerischool 1335 High Street, Alameda, CA 94501 • 510-521-0787

Since 1972

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF TOP 5

2727 College Avenue www.maybeckhs.org Since 1956

(510) 841-8489 November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

19

Fearless, W

COMM

Find out more a 20

Parents Press | November 2020

We Pursue

MUNITY

at shcp.edu/visit November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

21

Teen Dating How Young is Too Young?

By Kerrie McLoughlin

I

THINK MANY OF US CAN hit or degrade your teen, RELATE TO DEANNA, shouldn’t pressure your mom of three girls (one a teen into doing things he teen), when she said, “Dating? knows he shouldn’t be doNot my babies!!!” My own ing. In essence, make sure first date happened when they know how they want I was 16½, and my parents to be treated. were hard-core: if I missed • Have a plan. Teens curfew by one minute, I was should decide in grounded for two weeks (I advance things like was grounded quite often). qualities they are lookFor me, 13 or 14 would have ing for, how they don’t been too young for dating want a date to go, what because boys still freaked they will do if they find me out then, and I had no themselves in a bad siblings to learn from. situation, etc.

Many parents take the Teen dating is about issue of teen dating on a meeting many different case-by-case basis because kinds of people to find every kid is different. Some out what they eventuare more mature at age ally might like in a life 15, while some may not be partner, so don’t flip out ready for a first date until if your teen brings a guy age 19. “We don’t have a home who you don’t love. set age yet for dating, and are this will not Let your teen know he or she can always come Chances our oldest is 14. I think a be your future son-in-law. numerical age is way too to you with questions. Don’t be afraid to tell Talk to your teen about hard to pinpoint because of about your own best and worst dates and being himself and not different maturity levels. I mistakes you’ve made while dating. turning into a chameleon do see being a responsible driver as to please a potential date. somewhat related to being able to Let your teen know he or she can ing the difference between “intellihandle dating,” said Wendy Budetti, always come to you with questions. gent” and “brainless” dating. Intellimom of five.

Don’t be afraid to tell about your own gent dating is not making decisions Some parents see dating as a best and worst dates and mistakes based on hormones, popularity, means to finding a spouse, so why you’ve made while dating. Everybody money and what the crowd is doing. start so early? Instead, small group has bad judgment sometimes, so let Brainless dating is the opposite. dating might be encouraged with a your teen know you understand that parent chaperone near by.

When you feel your teen is ready and you are willing to come pick him House dates are a next step for for one-on-one dating, keep these up at any time of the night if a bad teens (or parents!) who may not be pointers in mind: situation arises. quite ready for one-on-one dating Kim, a mom from Berkeley, put • Try to model healthy romantic yet. Tonya, mom of one, said, “My it well when she said, “I think the relationships at home. Talk to daughter is 17 and for the last year best thing you can do is set the rules your child about dating and how or so I have allowed her to have a boy it’s not always like the media por- and guidelines for your daughter or come over and watch a movie or play trays it, how some of the very best son and do not let society set them. a board game as long as I am home, It’s called: you have to parent them, dates are free and to be realistic and her room is off limits!” not be their friend, and not be their about how a date might play out.

Sean Covey’s book, The Six Most matchmaker.”

• Talk to your teen about what a Important Decisions You Will Ever Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) is good relationship is, like how the Make: A Guide for Teens, talks about a seasoned homeschooling mom of five. other person should never push, teens being ready to date and know-

22

Parents Press | November 2020

Right now, we need schools that respond to injustice and teach children how to be culturally responsive.

MEISA creates change-makers.

ES

T

Holy Names High School

A

HOL Y

OL HO

ES HIGH S C AM N

18

68

OA K L A

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November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

23

2020 -2021

Find the Right Educational Experience for your Child

THE PUBLISHERS OF PARENTS’ PRESS TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF FINDING THE RIGHT PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD, FROM START TO FINISH. Following are excepts from the 2020/21 Annual Private School Guide, covering "Why Consider a Private School" and the "Private School Search Timeline" from the award winning guide. The complete 2020/21 Annual Private School Guide leads parents chronologically along the school-selection path, beginning with the value of private education and how to start the process with an emphasis on the all-important application process, including interviewing, testing, and essay writing as well as the ins-and-outs of financial aid. There’s also school profiles and a comprehensive list of regional private schools. Your road to the ideal school just got simpler! Get your copy today of this free resource at ParentsPress.com.

Why Consider a 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. Private schools are often well-equipped with current educational 24

Parents Press | November 2020

technology to facilitate in class and virtual instruction. 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 and for-profit schools, they are distinct because they are nonprofit and selfgoverning.

PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS, where tuition is typically one-third that of independent schools, offer continued >>>

East Bay Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Alameda The Child Unique Montessori School - Encinal Campus 2226 Encinal Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 www.thechildunique.org

The Child Unique Montessori School - Pacific Campus 2212 Pacific Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 www.thechildunique.org

The Child Unique Montessori School - Taylor Campus 1400 Sixth St. Alameda • 510-521-0595 www.thechildunique.org

Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda 1400 Sixth St. Alameda • 510-521-0595 www.montessorielementaryalameda.org

St. Philip Neri Catholic School 1335 High St. Alameda • 510-521-0787 www.spnalameda.org

PK-1 Co-Ed 6:1 130

Nondenominational Japanese instruction/ Mandarin instruction

$595 - $1,850 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

18mos - 3yrs Co-Ed 6:1 130

Nondenominational Spanish Immersion

$595 - $1,850 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

PK-1 Co-Ed 6:1 130

Nondenominational French immersion class, Spanish immersion class

$595 - $1,850 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

PK-8 Co-Ed 8:1 130

Nondenominational Arabic lessons (elementary-middle)

$1,555-$1,850 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

PS-8 Co-Ed 15:1

Catholic English

WASC, WCEA

6-12 Co-Ed 200

Independent English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish

WASC, UC Regents Approved, NCAA Approved

K-8 Co-Ed 6:1 105

Nondenominational French, Latin

$25,000 - LS $28,000 - US FA Available

ISSFBA

9-12 Co-Ed 6:1 80

Nondenominational English, Spanish, ASL

$38,000 - $40,000 50%

WASC, Certified NPS, UC Approved

PS-8 Co-Ed 16:1 150

Nondenominational English, Spanish, Mandarin Special Needs

$10,500 - $18,780 FA Available

AWSNA, WECAN

3-8 Co-Ed 3:1 64

Nondenominational English, French

$26,250 Grades 3-5 $28,691 Grades 6-8

6-8 Boys Only 8:1 100

Non Denominational English, Spanish

$31,395 50% receive TA

BADA, POCIS, NAIS, CAIS

Nursery-8 Co-Ed 12:1 400

Independent French, Spanish, Mandarin

$29,555 - $33,715 FA Available

French Ministry of Education, CAIS, WASC, NAIS

9-12 Co-Ed 5:1

Independent English, Spanish, French

$35,000

WASC, ISSFBA

K-12 Co-Ed 11:1

Christian English

Albany Tilden Preparatory School 1231 Solano Ave. Albany • 510-525-5506 www.tildenprep.com

Berkeley The Academy 2722 Benvenue Ave. Berkeley • 510-549-0605 www.theacademyschool.org

Bayhill High School 1940 Virginia St Berkeley • 510-984-0599 www.bayhillhs.org

Berkeley Rose Waldorf School 2515 Hillegass Ave Berkeley • 510-859-7679 www.berkeleyrose.org

The Crowden School 1475 Rose St. Berkeley • 510-559-6910 www.crowden.org

East Bay School for Boys 2340 Durant Ave. Berkeley • 510-621-3272 www.ebsfb.org

Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley 1009 Heinz Ave. Berkeley • 510-549-3867 www.eb.org

Maybeck High School 2727 College Ave. Berkeley • 510-841-8489 www.maybeckhs.org

Castro Valley Shepherd’s Heart Christian School 19835 Lake Chabot Road Castro Valley • 510-581-8086 www.ashcscv.com

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

25

<<< continued from page 24

K-8 progressive education in Oakland‘s Temescal.

parkdayschool.org (510) 653-0317

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF TOP 5

Register for a virtual information session now by contacting Karen at k_raven@ sttheresaschool.org or calling 510-457-1488

Spanish, Art, Music and P.E. • Multimedia Computer Lab • Event Center/Gym • Science Lab • Music Room • High Test Scores Currently accepting applications for TK-grade 5

Saint Theresa School 4850 Clarewood Drive • Oakland 510-547-3146 • www.sttheresaschool.org

26

Parents Press | November 2020

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.

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, parochial, and other private 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 2019/20 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 child.

Greater likelihood of a student completing a bachelor’s degree or graduate degree.

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.

Education for the whole child. Independent schools nurture not just students’ intellectual curiosity but also their personal/ social growth and civic purpose. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom to athletic competitions, artistic pursuits and school leadership offerings.

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.

Private School Guide Listings >>>

East Bay Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Concord Calvary Temple Christian School 4725 Evora Road Concord • 925-458-9870 www.ctcs1.org

Queen of All Saints School 2391 Grant St. Concord • 925-685-8700 www.qasconcord.org

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School 866 Oak Grove Road Concord • 925-682-5414 www.sfaconcord.org

Tabernacle School 4380 Concord Blvd.

Concord • 925-685-9169 www.tbs.org

K-8 Co-Ed

Christian English

ACSI, WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 16:1

Catholic English

Call

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 18:1 315

Catholic English, Spanish

Call

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 18:1

Nondenominational Spanish

Call

WASC, ACSI

6-12 Co-Ed 10:1 540

Independent English, French, Spanish, Chinese

6-8: $36,300 9: $46,900 10-12: $45,600

CAIS, NAIS, TABS, WASC

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

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

Danville Athenian School 2100 Mt. Diablo Blvd.

Danville • 925-837-5375 www.athenian.org

Stratford School - Blackhawk 3201 Camino Tassajara Danville • 925-648-4900 www.stratfordschools.com

PS CAMPUS

PS JOY PS HOME

At Prospect Sierra, whether on campus or at home, we help your children become successful students and caring people who strive to build a better world. At the heart of everything we do is joy.

ProspectSierra_15x10_25_R2.indd 1

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prospectsierra.org

BEST OF

Bay Area Green Business - NAIS Model School of the Future - Ashoka Changemaker School - US Department of Education Green Ribbon School

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2020

27

23/07/2020 12.25

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

East Bay Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Dublin Fountainhead Montessori Elementary 6665 Amador Plaza Rd. Dublin • 925-820-1343 www.fms.org/campuses/dublin

Quarry Lane School 6363 Tassajara Road Dublin • 925-829-8000 www.QuarryLane.org

PK-6 Co-Ed 10:1 60

Nondenominational English, Spanish, Mandarin

$16,680

PK-12 Co-Ed 8:1

Nondenominational Spanish, Mandarin

$19,984 - $39,531

WASC, NIPSA, NCPSA, IB World School

PK-8 Co-Ed 10:1 130

Nondenominational Spanish

$18,920 - $25,900 FA Available

AMS, POCis, NAIS

TK-8 Co-Ed 9:1 470

Independent, Ashoka Changemaker School, English

$25,135-$32,600 Flexible Tuition

NAIS, CAIS, GSI, RULER, ISSFBA

K-8 Co-Ed 21:1

Catholic English

Call

WASC

7-12 Co-Ed 16:1 285

Christian English

$7,800

ACSI, WASC

PS-8 Co-Ed 6:1 120

Independent German, English, Spanish

$20,390-$23,290 FA Needs based

WASC, WDA

PK-8 Co-Ed PK 7:1 K 11:1 360

Non-denominational Spanish Immersion, Mandarin Instruction

PK $25,430 K-5 $29,470 6-8 $31,600 TA up to 80%

IBO, CAIS, NAIS, WASC, POCIS Accredited Certified Green Business

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

El Cerrito Montessori Family School 7075 Cutting Blvd.

El Cerrito • 510-236-8802 www.montessorifamily.com/

Prospect Sierra School 960 Avis Drive 2060 Tapscott Ave. El Cerrito • 510-809-9000 www.prospectsierra.org

St. John the Baptist School 11156 San Pablo Ave. El Cerrito • 510-234-2244 www.stjohnec.org

El Sobrante El Sobrante Christian Junior/Senior High School 5070 Appian Way El Sobrante • 510-223-1966 www.escseagles.com

Emeryville East Bay German International School 1070 41st St. Emeryville • 510-679-2199 www.ebgis.org/

Escuela Bilingüe Internacional 2nd - 8th grade 4550 San Pablo Ave. • Emeryville Pre-kinder - 1st grade - See Oakland 510-653-3324 www.ebi.school

Fremont New Horizons School 2550 Peralta Blvd.

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

Stratford Schools 43077 Osgood Rd. Fremont • 510-438-9745 www.stratfordschools.com

Stratford Schools 38495 Fremont Bl. Fremont • 510-713-8900 www.stratfordschools.com

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

28

Parents Press | November 2020

WASC Call

East Bay Private Schools 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

St. Clement Catholic School 790 Calhoun St. Hayward • 510-538-5885 www.sclementschool.org

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

PK-4 Co-Ed 10:1

Nondenominational English

Call

K-8 Co-Ed

Catholic English

Call

TK-8 Co-Ed 17:1 290

Catholic English, Spanish

Call

K-12 (Oakland K-8; Lafayette 9-12) Coed 9:1

Nondenominational English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin

$46,735 12%-15%

CAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

TK-8 Co-Ed 16:1

Catholic English

$7,800 up to 50%

WCEA, WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 26:1

Catholic English

Call

WASC

Lafayette Bentley School 1000 Upper Happy Valley Road Lafayette • 925-283-2101 www.bentleyschool.org

St. Perpetua Catholic School 3445 Hamlin Road Lafayette • 925-284-1640 www.stperpetua.org

Livermore St. Michael School 345 Church St. Livermore • 925-447-1888 www.smsliv.org

Serving Preschool Through 8th Grade in the East Bay Since 1962 A Seven Hills education is based on the whole child philosophy, as we educate not just the mind but the heart, and attend to the entirety of the student experience. From our Reggioinspired Preschool and developmental Kindergarten, to our adventurous Lower School classes and hands-on Middle School program, Seven Hills students are on a journey of curiosity and exploration, success and setbacks, awareness of self and contribution to others.

Sign up for a tour on our website and see our community in action! www.sevenhillsschool.org | 925-933-0666 975 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek At the edge of Heather Farm Park

Inspiring students through fearless learning, service, and diversity.

St. Paul’s is an independent K-8 school located steps from Lake Merritt.

Tours weekly • 510-285-9617 • www.spes.org

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

29

East Bay Private Schools Valley Montessori School 1273 N Livermore Ave. Livermore • 925-455-8021 www.valleymontessorischool.com

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Toddler-8 Co-Ed 12:1 425

Non Denominational English, Spanish

$9,800 - $18,300 FA Available

AMS, CAIS, WASC

8-12 Co-Ed 4:1 45

Nondenominational Special Needs Latin

$43,400 FA Available

WASC

PS-8 Co-Ed

Non Denominational English

Call

PS-K Co-Ed

Non Denominational English

Call

K-12 (Oakland K-8; Lafayette 9-12) Coed 15:1

Nondenominational English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin

$32,415 K-5 $35,410 6-8 12%-15%

CAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

9-12 Co-Ed 10:1 360

Nondenominational English, Chinese, French, Latin, Spanish

$48,300 25%

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

Moraga Orion Academy 350 Rheem Blvd.

Moraga • 925-377-0789 www.orionacademy.org

Newark Challenger School - Ardenwood 35487 Dumbarton Court Newark • 510-739-0300 www.challengerschool.com

Challenger School 39600 Cedar Blvd.

Newark • 510-770-1771 www.challengerschool.com

Oakland Bentley School 1 Hiller Drive Oakland • 510-843-2512 www.bentleyschool.org

College Preparatory School 6100 Broadway Oakland • 510-652-4364 www.college-prep.org

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF WINNER

Educating Global Citizens

COLLEGE PREPARATORY Experience the Power of Community

VISIT. APPLY. CONNECT.

Virtual and Socially Distanced events available

The East Bay German International School (EBGIS) is a dual-language immersion school offering Preschool through eighth grade programs. Our integrated curriculum combines bilingual German and English instruction with project-based learning and individualized attention to each of our students. We offer exceptional academics, a diverse international perspective, and a vibrant community of students, parents, and teachers. Our Preschool and Kindergarten programs are open to all, no prior knowledge of German is needed. Visit us!

Campus Tour September 20, 2019 October 11, 2019 November 15, 2019 December 5, 2019 January 10, 2019 February 6, 2019 9 am - 10:30 am Open House October 26, 2019 February 29, 2019 10 am - 1 pm

Register Online today | Salesian.com 1070 41st Street Emeryville, CA 94608

30

Parents Press | November 2020

(510) 679-2199 contact@ebgis.org

ebgis.org

East Bay Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Escuela Bilingüe Internacional Pre-kinder - 1st grade 410 Alcatraz Ave. • Oakland 2nd - 8th grade - See Emeryville 510-653-3324 www.ebi.school

Head-Royce School 4315 Lincoln Ave. Oakland • 510-531-1300 www.headroyce.org

Holy Names High School 4660 Harbord Dr. Oakland • 510-450-1110 www.hnhsoakland.org

Park Day School 360 42nd St. Oakland • 510-653-0317 www.parkdayschool.org

Redwood Day 3245 Sheffield Ave. Oakland • 510-534-0800 rdschool.org

The Renaissance International School 3650 Dimond Ave. Oakland • 510-531-8566 www.therenaissanceschool.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal School 116 Montecito Ave. Oakland • 510-285-9600 www.spes.org

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

PK-8 Co-Ed PK 7:1 K 11:1 360

Non-denominational Spanish Immersion, Mandarin Instruction

PK $25,430 K-5 $29,470 6-8 $31,600 TA up to 80%

IBO, CAIS, NAIS, WASC, POCIS Accredited Certified Green Business

K-12 Co-Ed 8:1 900

Nondenominational Chinese, French Latin, Spanish

$33,100 $47,300 27% receive

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

9-12 Girls Only 9:1 155

Catholic French, Spanish, ASL

$18,300 FA Available

NCGS, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 8:1 275

Nondenominational English, Spanish

$29,000 K-5 $31,400 6-8 35% rec. FA

PEN, CAIS, ISSFBA

K-8 Co-Ed 9:1

Nondenominational Spanish

$28,400 - $31,530 Up to 95%

NAIS, CAIS, WASC, POCIS, EBISA

PK-K, 7-9 Co-Ed

Montessori, Independent, Music, Art, Language Immersion Spanish, French

$25,100 - $36,360 1%-50%

IMC

K-8 Co-Ed 10:1 380

Independent Episcopal (non religious) Spanish

$30,050 - $34,230 TA Available

NAIS, CAIS, WASC, POCIS

WHEN STUDENTS

THE EMBRACE A CHALLENGE 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*

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF TOP 5

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.

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

31

East Bay Private Schools St. Theresa School 4850 Clarewood Drive Oakland • 510-547-3146 www.sttheresaschool.org

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

K-8 Co-Ed 30:1

Catholic Spanish

$8,100 - $11,000 50%

WASC, WCEA

9-12 Co-Ed 8:1 75

Non Denominational Spanish, ASL

$42,950 FA Available

NAIS, POCIS, WASC

K-8 Co-Ed 15:1 259

Catholic Spanish

$8,500 - $9,300 13%

WASC, WCEA

1-6 Co-Ed

Montessori, Independent, Music, Art, Language Immersion Spanish, French

$30,600 - $35,000 1%-50%

IMC

K-12 Co-Ed 17:1

Seventh-Day Adventist English

$6,570 - $10,470 Varies

WASC, AAA

PS-8 Co-Ed 12:1 (PS) 15:1 (K) 22:1 (1-8)

Independent English, Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

K-8 Co-Ed 4:1 85

Independent English, Spanish

$19,406 FA Available

EBISA

9-12 Co-Ed 15:1 400

Catholic English, French, Spanish

$18,200 FA Available

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed

Catholic English

Call

PK-8 Co-Ed 24:1

Catholic Spanish

$6,500 - $7,100 Varies

K-8 Co-Ed

Lutheran English

Call

PS-8 Co-Ed 10:1 201

Catholic English, Spanish, French

$6,900 Up to 40%

Orinda Orinda Academy 19 Altarinda Rd. Orinda • 925-254-7553 www.orindaacademy.org

Piedmont Corpus Christi School 1 Estates Drive Piedmont • 510-530-4056 www.corpuschristischool.com

The Renaissance International School 5201 Park Blvd.

Piedmont • 510-328-1127 www.therenaissanceschool.org

Pleasant Hill Pleasant Hill Adventist Academy 796 Grayson Road Pleasant Hill • 925-934-9261 www.pleasanthilladventistacademy.com

Pleasanton Stratford Schools 4576 Willow Road Pleasanton • 925-737-0001 www.stratfordschools.com

Richmond Crestmont School 6226 Arlington Blvd.

Richmond • 510-237-4164 www.crestmontschool.org

Salesian College Preparatory 2851 Salesian Ave. Richmond • 510-234-4433 www.salesian.com

San Leandro St. Felicitas Catholic School 1650 Manor Blvd.

San Leandro • 510-357-2530 www.stfelicitas-school.org

St. Leander School 451 Davis St. San Leandro • 510-351-4144 www.stleanderschool.org

WASC

WASC

San Lorenzo Calvary Lutheran School 17200 Via Magdalena San Lorenzo • 510-278-2598 www.calvaryslz.org/school

NLSA, WASC

San Pablo St. Paul School 1825 Church Lane San Pablo • 510-233-3080 www.st-paulschool.org

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Parents Press | November 2020

WASC, WCEA

East Bay Private Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Walnut Creek Seven Hills School 975 N. San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek • 925-933-0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org

Tilden Preparatory School 1475 N. Broadway Walnut Creek • 925-933-5506 www.tildenprep.com

PS-8 Co-Ed 8:1 400

Nondenomational English, Spanish, French

$17,095 - $32,440

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

6-12 Co-Ed 200

Independent English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish

9-12 Co-Ed 15:1

Independent English, French, Spanish, Mandarin

$35,996

WASC, NAIS, NACAC, ISSFBA

9-12 Co-Ed 12:1 1,350

Catholic English, Spanish French, Japanese, Mandarin, ASL

$23,250 $5M in FA. Over 330 students receive aid

WASC, WCEA

K-8 Co-Ed 18:1 170

Roman Catholic English

$5,950

WASC, WCEA

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

Non Denominational Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

WASC, UC Regents Approved, NCAA Approved

San Francisco Private Schools Lick-Wilmerding High School 755 Ocean Ave. San Francisco • 415-333-4021 www.lwhs.org

Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory 1055 Ellis St. San Francisco • 415-772-6626 www.shcp.edu

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

Stratford School 301 DeMontfort Avenue San Francisco • 415-333-3134 www.stratfordschools.com

An Athenian education prepares students for a life of purpose and personal fulfillment 75-acre campus of rolling, oak-covered hills lies at the base of Mt. Diablo in Danville, CA just 32 miles East of San Francisco. Athenian buses transport students to and from many East Bay communities.

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

Life is an adventure of intellectual exploration and meaningful contribution.

2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd • Danville • 925-837-5375 • www.athenian.org

Start Early. Start Right.

Visit ChallengerSchool.com to learn more.

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

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

EST. 1969

THE ACADEMY SCHOOL Kindergarten - 8th Grade Elmwood Neighborhood, Berkeley Rich and Rigorous Academics Small Class Sizes Warm and Nurturing Environment Experienced Master Teachers Diverse and Inclusive Community

Now Accepting Applications www.theacademyschool.org 510.549.0605 November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

33

Financial Aid:

BASIC INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW

E

very private school has its own policies about who receives financial aid, what types of aid are awarded, and how much aid 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.

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 sion shortly after your child is use loans to pay for expenses not HOW SCHOOLS DETERMINE admitted to a particular school. covered by a grant.

ELIGIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL AID Tuition Payment Plans allow To determine your eligibility for TYPES OF FINANCIAL AID you to make monthly payments financial aid, you must submit an AVAILABLE rather than writing one or two Grants are the most common application form and financial large checks each year. Schools type of financial aid offered statements. There is no income offer payment plans through a by private schools. They are limit that automatically makes third-party financial services awarded annually to students your family ineligible for financompany, which charges a relawho demonstrate financial need, cial aid. Financial aid officers tively small fee. and students must re-apply each take into account your income, Sibling discounts are designed year. Grant money comes from assets, and expenses, includto help families with more than the school’s budget and does not ing educational costs for other one child enrolled in the same have to be paid back. children. school. Many schools are shrinkMerit scholarships awarded Bottom line: If you feel your ing these discounts, or phasing by the school are rare and are family cannot afford to pay the them out altogether. Even so, it’s usually reserved for students full cost, regardless of your inworth asking if this situation apcome, it’s worth the effort to sub- who have a special talent that plies to you. the school is seeking, such as mit a financial aid application.

Most families pay for tuition art, music, or academics. GenerWHEN TO APPLY through a combination of these ally, scholarships are based on options. The school’s financial Every school has its own financial need. They may be aid officer can help you create financial aid schedule, and awarded once, annually, or as a financing plan that fits your the deadlines are different for long as the student meets the family’s needs. Don’t hesitate to schools with rolling admissions. scholarship criteria. ask questions and explore all the In general, most financial aid apScholarships from outside options available to you. plications are due in January or organizations are also rare, and February. Check with your school often awarded by local chapters Reprinted with the permission from of choice for the deadline. You of national groups like the National Association of Independent will receive a financial aid deciRotary Club. Ask the school for Schools, nais.org.

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Parents Press | November 2020

Basic Timeline FOR APPLYING TO A PRIVATE SCHOOL While each school follows its own schedule, here is a typical admissions timeline. Many schools are transitioning to virtual admission events and individual tours.

August

October

January

• Continue scheduling tours, • Pay attention to deadinterviews, class visits, and lines: Most applications are standardized or school-based due in January or Febru• Define your ideal school tests ary, along with test scores, • Find schools that match your • Visit schools, virtually if necreferences, transcripts, and child’s needs financial aid forms essary, during open houses, • Research and ask questions attend information sessions, of schools on your preliminary and take tours list • Finalize the list of schools to • Don’t miss deadlines: Most schools’ applications are due which you will apply in February at the latest • Take required standardized • Browse schools’ websites • Visit schools and/or have admission tests to learn more about their your child participate in a programs and philosophies student shadow day • Request admissions and • Continue scheduling tours, financial aid material by phone interviews, class visits, and or online standardized or school-based • Watch for school decisions • Review admissions materials starting in mid-March tests to determine which schools to • Continue to watch for open • Watch for financial aid visit decisions houses you may want to • Create a calendar of pertiattend • If your student is accepted nent admission and financial • Request teacher recommenby multiple schools, decide aid deadlines for the schools which school your child will dations from your child’s curto which you are considering attend rent school applying • Start working on applications, • Ask elementary schools about financial aid forms, student their test schedules and make • Sign and return enrollment questionnaires, and essays appointments contracts and send deposits • Register for any standardized tests required for admission • Continue to watch for any • Review the test websites to open house or school events learn about procedures and • Attend events and activities of interest test dates, see sample quesfor new parents and • Request transcripts at the end tions, and purchase test-prepstudents of your child’s first aration books semester • Call schools to schedule • Complete applications, ques- Reprinted with permission from the individual tours, class visits, National Association of Independent tionnaires, and essays interviews, and “shadow days” Schools, www.nais.org • Note application deadlines. if available

Some schools have December

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

February

September

November

March

April

December

May to September

November 2020 | ParentsPress.com

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