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EAST BAY GUIDE TO

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Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

GUIDE TO

PRIVATE SCHOOLS BOARDING • DAY SCHOOLS

Families have a choice when it comes to finding the RIGHT school, and choices have grown over the last 20 years. As you make these important choices, know that there is a school for every child. We hope and know that you will find this resource a tremendous help as you explore the regions amazing private school options.

INSIDE: • Read about the types of private schools and how to start you search • Use our timeline to plan, month by month, your search and execution of getting accepted at your school of choice • Learn what exams are needed, how to nail the school interview and tips for writing a remarkable entrance essay. • Explore tuition assistance opportunities

And, discover the private schools and preschools who are inviting you to consider them as the right program for your child and your family. PARENTS’ PRESS | Connecting you with families for over 40 years!

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

The East Bay Guide to Private Schools & Preschools takes the guesswork out of finding the right school for your child, from start to finish.

Contents 8

Why Consider 40 Private School?

Tips for a Great Essay

The Admissions 44 Process: Plan Ahead

What to Include in a Parent Statement

Private School Search: Where to Start?

Preparing for the Interview

Why Consider a Boarding School?

Virtual Interview Techniques

50 Basic Timeline for Applying A month-by-month guide to the 52 application process

First Choice Letter: Should You Write One?

Define Your Ideal School

When Your Child Has Special Needs

Financial Assistance: Basics You Need to Know

What to Expect When Applying

Acceptance and Decision Designed and Published by 875-A Island Dr., Ste. 421 Alameda, CA 94502

Myths About Financial Assistance

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Featured School & Preschool Profiles Profiles 97 Featured Private Day School Listings

Associate Editor | Jean Abernathy

Applying After Deadline

Make the Most of Your Campus Visit

8 Tips for Navigating 107 an Open House

Featured Boarding School Listings

Shadow Days

Entrance Exam 101

What Does Accreditation mean?

109

110

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

Publishers | Parenting Media Art Director | Debbi Murzyn

Digital Content Editors Katie McKean & Michael McKean Advertising Sales & General Info: sales@parentspress.com To Add Your School parentspress.com/schoolprofile-submission Guide to Private Schools is published annually by Parents’ Press ©2023

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We prepare students for a life of intellectual exploration and meaningful contribution. Athenian is a 6-12 all-gender day and boarding school with 535+ students. We invite you to learn more and join us for an upcoming admission event!

A campus like no other: Athenian is located on 75 beautiful acres at the foot of Mt. Diablo in Danville. We use our natural environment as a classroom--a perfect setting for our hands-on approach to teaching and learning. Athenian buses transport students to and from East Bay communities.

Scan to learn more!

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

Why Consider Private School?

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 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. 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

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. to independent schools as private, lumping them in with parochial 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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K-8 progressive education in Oakland‘s Temescal.

parkdayschool.org (510) 653-0317 www.ParentsPress.com

Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

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 studentteacher ratios that encourage close connections with students. The median ratio in schools that are members of the National Association of Independent Schools in 2021–2022 was 8.4 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.

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 2021–2022, students of color were 32 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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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

The Admissions Process: Plan Ahead You and your family have decided to apply to one or more private schools for the next school year. Hopefully, you have given yourself and your child plenty of time to prepare for the steps and items required for the process. The steps and requirements in this process can vary depending on the grade your child will enter and the selectiveness of the schools you’re targeting. As parents, understanding your role in this endeavor is crucial. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigate the admissions process smoothly and effectively.

related events and deadlines. Typically, admissions portals open in late August or September, so register early to engage with the schools early.

To ensure a successful admissions process, it’s essential to take proactive steps and be wellorganized from the outset. Here are some key considerations for parents:

5. Understand your financial limitations for tuition and fundraising and what the school will ask of its families.

Highly Selective Preschools and Elementary Schools 1. Begin by identifying a shortlist of preschools or elementary schools that align with your preferences. Research their acceptance rates, and if they are highly competitive, consider expanding your options. 2. Maintain a detailed calendar of admission12

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

3. Network with parents of children already enrolled in your top choices. Inquire about the teachers, parent involvement, flexibility and disciplinary procedures. 4. Attend “get to know you” events organized by prospective schools to familiarize yourself with their culture and values.

6. Inquire on required parent participation during the school year. Explore opportunities to contribute through connections or ongoing projects. 7. Prepare a photo collage of your child for the application to provide a more comprehensive perspective of your family. 8. Understand what the preschool will be >>> www.ParentsPress.com

The East Bay German International School (EBGIS) is a dual-language immersion IB World School offering preschool through high school programs. Our integrated curriculum combines bilingual German and English instruction with project-based learning and a cross-cultural experience. We offer exceptional academics, a diverse international perspective, and a vibrant community of students, parents, and teachers. EBGIS is an accredited IB World School. All EBGIS eleventh and twelfth graders will enter the IB Diploma Programme (DP). Often referred to as the “gold standard” in high school education. The EBGIS IB Diploma Programme is open to students who do not speak German. Students may transfer to EBGIS to reap the beneﬁts of the IB Diploma Programme offered in the eleventh and twelfth grades, choosing a second language other than German.

Open House October 21, 2023 January 27, 2024 10 am - 2 pm

Online Info Sessions are offered for all. Register at: http://www.ebgis.org/ admissions/visit-us

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No prior knowledge of German is needed to join our Preschool and Kindergarten programs. Students need not be ﬂuent in German to join our Elementary and Middle Schools. Talk to us about individualized language support.

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

– Continued – looking for during the interview from your child and you. Work with your child to ensure they have the needed skills. Private Middle and High Schools Private school admissions season typically opens in August or September the preceding year. In addition to basic demographic information, the educational history of the student and standardized test scores, the application may consist of supplemental components such as: • Responses to student essay prompts. • Parent essays. • Graded writing samples. • Letters of recommendation, typically from English and math teachers. • An extracurricular profile of the student on what they do outside of class. In addition to the prior items listed for preschools and elementary schools, organize and prepare for the following: 1. Maintain a calendar to track registration openings, admission events, application deadlines, and financial assistance deadlines. 2. Compile records of your child’s achievements in academics, sports, and community service to illustrate their positive impact. 3. Assess the impression your family will make on the school’s administration and determine how you will demonstrate your long-term commitment and support. 4. Begin working on your parent statement early, aligning it with the school’s philosophies to showcase your family’s suitability. 5. Collaborate with your child on their 14

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

admissions essay, researching prompts as soon as possible. 6. Identify required tests, register and prepare your child accordingly. 7. Assist your child in selecting teachers, coaches, or mentors for compelling letters of recommendation. 8. Assemble graded writing samples and any other requested materials. 9. Attend non-admission events at the school, such as fundraisers and competitions, to display your family’s interest and involvement and learn more. 10. Help your child craft a first-choice letter for their top school preference. The most challenging years to get into a preschool or private school are Pre-K 3, kindergarten, grade 6 and grade 9. So much of this process relies upon the parent. Stay on top of deadlines, ensure your child remains engaged, and maintains strong grades throughout this process. Applying to highly selective schools can be as demanding as the college application process. Some families choose to hire an educational consultant to assist with the process and keep them on track. Do you need to hire a consultant? This depends upon how selective the school your child is applying to, if you are able to handle the extra burden during the admissions time or if you want to give your child a leg up in the application process. Schools come in all shapes and sizes with different requirements. You know your child better than anyone out there. You will be there to assist your child choose the school that is the best fit. •

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The Private School Search: Where to Start?

ith every private school brochure because they are not subject to the state flashing photos of smiling students testing standards imposed on public schools. thriving in science labs and onstage, A simple way to begin thinking about which it can be hard to tell schools apart. Though on private school may be right for your child closer look, each school has its own personality, is to look at how the school is structured. spanning a wider range of educational styles For example, some schools do not assign and often offering smaller classes than public homework and others group different grades schools. together in one classroom. Some schools follow By doing this step, it is easy An easy, simple way to distinct educational to rule out schools that are begin thinking about which not of interest. philosophies like Waldorf or Montessori. Others focus It’s time to start thinking private school may be on music, offer a girls-only about fall of 2024 if your right for your child is to student body, a year-round child is about to begin her schedule, or teach their last year of preschool or is in look at how the school is curriculum exclusively in fifth or eighth grade. Starting structured. French. There are schools with a year before you actually impressive art, sports, drama, need to can help relieve and science programs. Some anxiety as well as give you are K–5 or K–8, others only grades 6–8, and time to do your research. still others are K–12. All of these schools have The timeline for what can be a rigorous the luxury of complete freedom in designing search for private schools begins with open curriculum to fit the school’s philosophy house events and tours starting in September; applications in December and January; >>> 16

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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We Challenge Students T O T H I N K B E Y O N D T H E M S E LV E S At Bentley, from Kindergarten through 12th grade, students develop deep intellectual curiosity and profound awareness of their responsibilities as citizens. Though each will embark on a unique path, every graduate shares the knowledge that they can make a difference in the world of tomorrow.

L E A R N M O R E AT: B E N T L E Y S C H O O L .O R G /A D M I S S I O N S K-8 C A M P U S , O A K L A N D (510) 843-2512

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The Private School Search: Where to Start? cont’d. and acceptance or rejection letters in early March. The sooner you start checking out schools that interest you, the better, whether those schools are independent or parochial. 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 18

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

ask tough questions. Ask other families what unique programs their children 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 eighth-graders 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 can be a stressful one. However, with some advance preparation and clear goals, it doesn’t have to be onerous. You might even gain some new insight into yourself and your child along the way. • www.ParentsPress.com

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Why Consider a Boarding School?

oarding schools are a perfect option for of community is developed as well as lifelong many families, providing a home away from friends. Peers encourage each other to try home that allows children to focus on their new sports, art, music and awaken interests education as well as extra-curricular activities not available at home. Students build strong such as sports or arts. Education may not be the connections to their roommates and teachers main reason parents choose to send their kids to which builds learning behavior and students’ boarding school. Some want their children to have motivation. These connections often lead to a religious base to their education. Others find a strong network of motivated people for the sports academies which allow their child the ability rest of their lives. to train and develop athletic skills while providing BUILD INDEPENDENCE, DISCIPLINE a strong college prep education. Some parents AND MATURITY favor a specific educational philosophy that can only be found in a boarding school setting. Plus, • Boarding schools teach children to take as was experienced with how education has been care of themselves which turns them into an affected by situations such as Covid-19, boarding independent individual for life. Students at schools can create a stability for students and boarding schools learn to be self-reliant and parents. responsible at an earlier age than conventional students. These students learn to follow and HIGH-QUALITY AND UNIQUE maintain a schedule, how to follow school EDUCATION POSSIBILITIES rules and take responsibility for their actions, • With class sizes at most boarding schools as well as, learn to make decisions and be averaging around 10-12 students, there is better prepared for making difficult choices as an opportunity to explore more subjects they grow into adults. and attend classes not normally offered in INNOVATIVE TEACHING TECHNIQUES conventional schools. Boarding schools may offer exciting travel opportunities to study • Boarding schools are also known to be quite ecology, history, political science, or art to innovative and to provide students with the give students the advantage of seeing and latest technologies in order to improve the living their studies. Boarding schools have high learning experience. This may translate into standards when it comes to selecting teachers. boarders’ higher acceptance by leading Teachers are expected to create a classroom universities and better job opportunities later environment to stimulate discussion and on. promote student interest.

STRONG CONNECTIONS • Boarding Schools create a strong community of students, staff and teachers. With children socializing with a limited number of children their own age, around the clock, a strong sense 20

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

WEEKENDS AT HOME

• If not seeing your child for weeks at a time sounds a bit daunting, look for boarding schools which offer a five day a week program to allow for students to spend weekends with their families. • www.ParentsPress.com

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

A MONTH-BY-MONTH GUIDE TO THE APPLICATION PROCESS.

Basic Timeline

Not every school follows the same schedule, but many follow similar timetables for admission. The below timeline is designed to help you in the admissions process. Many schools will not need all of the materials presented here. It depends on how competitive and selective the school’s admission team is.

AUGUST

❑ Begin crafting parent statements and brainstorming essay ideas

❑ Create an Admissions Journal

❑ Round up graded writing samples and other items, i.e., art, prospective schools will need to evaluate your child

❑ Define your ideal school ❑ Find schools that match your child’s needs ❑ Talk to your network of friends to gather insights on schools ❑ Research and ask questions of schools on your preliminary list

SEPTEMBER ❑ Browse schools’ websites & look books to learn more about their programs and philosophies ❑ Register at each school of interest and request admissions and financial aid material

❑ Assemble an extracurricular profile ❑ Work with your child to practice answering interview questions ❑ Arrange to get needed letters of recommendations

OCTOBER ❑ Continue scheduling tours, interviews, class visits, and standardized or school-based tests. ❑ Visit schools during open houses, information sessions, and tours.

❑ Create a calendar of pertinent admission and financial assistance deadlines for the schools of interest

❑ Finalize the list of schools to which you will apply.

❑ Ask schools about their test requirements and register for needed tests

❑ Keep working on parent statements, essays and practice interviewing

❑ Review the test websites to learn about procedures and test dates, see sample questions, and purchase test-preparation books ❑ Contact schools to schedule individual tours, class visits, interviews, and shadow days 22

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

❑ 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. www.ParentsPress.com

for Applying

to a Private School

❑ Follow up on teacher recommendations from your child’s current school.

MARCH ❑ Watch for school decisions starting in mid-March

❑ Start working on applications, financial assistance forms, continue ❑ Watch for financial assistance working on essays, interviews & decisions about this same time statements ❑ If your student is accepted by multiple schools, decide which DECEMBER school your child will attend & ❑ Continue to watch for any let other schools know of your admission or school events of choice interest. ❑ If wait listed, contact school to ❑ Request transcripts at the end of find out details and options your child’s first semester. ❑ Complete any remaining applications, questionnaires, etc. Some application materials are due as early as December.

APRIL

JANUARY

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

❑ Deadlines time: Most applications are due in January or February, along with the accompanying required materials. ❑ Financial assistance applications are normally due soon after applications

FEBRUARY

❑ Sign and return enrollment contracts and deposits

❑ 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

❑ For schools with February admissions deadline, turn in applications ❑ Re-visit schools applied to again if unsure of top choice www.ParentsPress.com

Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

Define Your Ideal School

very school provides a unique educational experience, so how do you decide which schools will be a good fit for your child? Think about: • SCHOOL TYPE - Do you want a day school or boarding school? Coeducational or singlesex? If you’re not sure, search for articles and opinions or talk to an educational consultant about which environment might be best for your student. • GRADE RANGE - Do you want a school that focuses on your child’s age range, or one that can serve your child through elementary, middle, and high school? • LOCATION - Convenience matters, especially if you want your child to take part in school activities. Time the commute before and after school just to be sure. • STUDENT BODY - Consider both average class size and total enrollment. A smaller population may mean fewer social opportunities, but more chances for your student to shine. Also consider the diversity of the student body.

• CURRICULUM - What courses are offered? Which are required and which are elective? In what order are math, science, and humanities courses taught? Is there an interdisciplinary emphasis, so that what students study in English meshes with what they’re learning in history? Does the curriculum fit your student’s learning needs? • FACULTY - Examine the faculty list (online or in recruitment materials). Where did teachers go to college? How long have they been teaching? Do their degrees match with what they teach? Is there much turnover? In primary grades, how many teachers are in the classroom? Watch a class to see how teachers interact with students and engage them in the learning process. • FACILITIES - In addition to the overall condition of the school, look at the facilities your child may use. Is the art department well-stocked? Are sports facilities wellequipped? Are computers up to date? How extensive is the library/language lab?

• SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND • EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY - Most EXTRACURRICULARS - Does the school independent schools fall along a continuum provide programs that fit your student’s between traditional and progressive, but what needs and interests? Consider academic does that mean? How are classes taught? How support, language programs, arts, are expectations conveyed? How are students athletics, leadership opportunities, travel tested? Ask to sit in on a few classes to see how oppportunties and service programs. Is the philosophy plays out. the school a place where your child can blossom? •

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

When Your Child Has Special Needs

any students have diagnoses such as ADHD, anxiety, learning delays, physical disabilities, special medical needs or behavioral issues. Other children have special talents they want to nurture or learning styles that require additional time or resources in the classroom. Whatever your child’s special needs, it’s best to talk about them honestly and early in the process. Consider asking the school the below questions related to your child: • How does the school endeavor to meet your child’s needs? • If your child has a 504 or IEP from a public school, will this school work with your child to set up a similar program? • How does this school handle absences due to issues related to my child’s special needs? • How will the school communicate if there is a problem?

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

• What do you see as the school’s strengths and weaknesses with working with special needs students? • Will my child have a counselor to work with my child’s unique needs? If your child is not admitted, it may mean the school doesn’t have the facilities or expertise to meet your child’s needs. Available, state mandated, programs available public schools may not translate to a private school setting. If the school seems like a good fit, ask to speak to 2-3 parents who have children with similar situations at the school. Ask these families what their experience has been like, what challenges they have encountered and if the school worked with them to find a quality solution. Would the parents recommend the school? Keep notes on every conversation you have, and look for consistency in the answers. This information should help you narrow your list of possible schools. • www.ParentsPress.com

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• Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

What to Expect When Applying to Private School

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 your child into the right school. • After creating your short list of schools, contact 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. 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. 28

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

• 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.

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. >>> www.ParentsPress.com

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

What to Expect When Applying cont’d. 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:

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. •

• 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

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

inding a school that will accept your child after the normal admissions deadline has passed is not easy. But it can be done. 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. •

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Cultivating Conﬁdence & Curiosity

Aurora School’s mission is to nurture children’s love of learning by cultivating academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and social engagement. At Aurora School, we believe that academic excellence is best achieved in an environment where students feel confident and supported. We employ social-emotional learning throughout our curriculum to cultivate self-awareness, relationship skills, problem-solving abilities, and responsible decision-making. Aurora students learn in multi-grade classrooms. where grades K/1, 2/3, 4/5, and 6-8 share learning spaces. Older students serve as mentors to their younger classmates, who become mentors the following year.

Our optimal student:teacher ratio ensures that everyone has a voice. We foster strong relationships between students and teachers, which can dramatically enhance students' motivation and promote learning. Academic excellence, joy of learning, inclusivity, and a commitment to social justice are at the heart of our school culture. If you’d like to learn more, visit our website or contact us to schedule an information session or a tour of our lovely campus in Upper Rockridge.

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Make the Most of Your Campus Visit

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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• General impressions count, but so do the details. Take note of what the grounds and classrooms are like, but also pay attention to specifics: are the bathrooms clean; do staff seemed organized and ready for your visit; what library, science, and technology resources does the school offer? • 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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8 Tips for Navigating an Open House Open House events are one of the best opportunities to experience many aspects of a school. At the event you will get the feel of the staff, students and administrators. You will have the opportunity to walk the halls, experience the classrooms and unique features. While the format of these events may differ across institutions, most will introduce you to the faculty, offer tours of the premises, and spotlight clubs and other extracurricular activities. With the rise of technology, many schools now opt for virtual Open House events. While these can be informative, it’s essential to visit the campus at some point during the admissions process. Whether you’re attending virtually or in person, here are eight tips to make the most of your Open House experience: 1. REGISTER IN ADVANCE Let schools know you are coming as soon as you can. You will be rewarded by a better prepared school. It is not unusual for these events to fill up so don’t wait to reserve your space. Plus, schools will most likely send you an agenda of the event and important admissions information. And, if you can’t make it for some reason let the school know ahead of time. 2. DO YOUR HOMEWORK By this stage, you should have reviewed the school’s websites, look books, social media and YouTube channels. Conduct a thorough online search for any relevant news on the school. Talk to your child about the school and what is of particular interest. 3. PAY ATTENTION TO ARRIVAL TIME While some schools have flexible drop-in events, others have specific check in times. Consider arriving early to mix with staff and current students. If time doesn’t allow you to go early, be on time so you are not rushed. 4. FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF AND CHILD WITH THE AGENDA Hopefully, since you registered the school has provided an agenda ahead of time. Otherwise, check the school’s website or email the admissions team ahead of time. An Open House can be an overwhelming experience for your child due to unfamiliar surroundings and faces. Familiarizing them with the event’s flow can alleviate anxiety. Some events might have separate schedules for parents and prospective 34

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students, so discuss logistics and potential rendezvous points. 5. TAKE NOTES Most likely you will be visiting more than one schools events. After a few events, keeping track of information can be tough. Take good notes of teacher and student engagement, important dates and opportunities to further engage with the school. Write down a teacher or student that has similar interests as your child or of programs and new projects of interest. Also, after the event, write down your overall impression of the school and how your child reacts, new questions and next steps. 6. ASK QUESTIONS Talk to as many students and teachers as possible. Ask why they chose this school and what they like most about it. Find out what life is like day-to-day, what are the important school wide events, favorite teachers or classes. Evaluate the level of excitement of the students. 7. EVALUATE IF THIS SCHOOL A GOOD FIT Do you see your child flourishing academically, socially and physically here? Is school staff welcoming and approachable? Are students engaging with other students. What does the school do to help integrate new students? 8. EVALUATE COMMUNICATION EFFICACY Effective school communication is a reflection of its administrative efficiency. Assess if the provided information facilitated a smooth open house experience. Were there areas where more clarity would have been beneficial? Ensure you comprehend the school’s expectations of students and their families. Use Open House events to help understand the school and determine its compatibility. The school should educate you on what they are looking for in a student and what they promise to provide. If you made a good connection with a staff member, or they took extra time with you, drop them a quick note of appreciation. Also, consider sending the admissions a thank-you note, accompanied by a positive observation. •

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OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

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Shadow Days

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. On shadow days, 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. • 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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Entrance Exam 101

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 computer-based 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 additional or different requirements for international students. 38

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ISEE SOURCE: WWW.ERBLEARN.ORG/ FAMILIES/ISEE-BY-ERB/ 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). • www.ParentsPress.com

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Tips for a Great Essay

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.

TELL A STORY

READ THE DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY

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

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. 40

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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

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. •

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COMMUNITY

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The Springstone School, a Nonpublic School (NPS), certified by the California Department of Education, is a Special Education school serving neurodiverse students from the Bay Area with Executive Function challenges that affect their ability to organize and prioritize information and make meaningful social connecẨ tions. Springstone has two programs, a Middle School serving grades 6th-8th and a Community High School serving grades 9th-12th. Springstone offers a serene and calm learning environment, nestled along the Las Trampas creek in Lafayette. Students are placed privately or through their home school district with a referral and may be enrolled year-round.

We invite you to visit Springstone to learn more about our unique programs! We offer Group Tours for parents and advocates as well as Open Houses for families. GROUP TOURS

Springstone provides an academically rigorous curriculum following the framework of the California Common Core Standards. Small, self-contained, structured classrooms (8:1 students to teacher ratio) allowing for individualized instruction, collaboration, discussion, and conversation within multiple modalities. Springstone’s programs integrate pragmatic language, occupaẨ tional therapy, mindfulness, organizational skills, work skills, and life skills in the academic classroom, as well as in the community. We have a one of a kind ACCESS program, bringing project-based learning within the greater community. We believe our students will develop strategies for use in academic and social settings if they are part of a community that understands, accepts, and challenges them.

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What to Include in a Parent Statement Most preschools and private schools use the Parent Statement as a tool to gain insights into your child and family support. Particularly for preschool and early elementary grades, the Parent Statement may be the primary written lens through which the admissions team views your child’s personality, assessing if they are a good fit. Additionally, the statement should offer a glimpse into your family dynamics, primarily addressing whether education is important, supported, and valued. The part of the admission’s process aims to understand your family values to see if they resonate with the school’s ethos.

a notable example that encapsulates your child’s character and use it as a foundation for your introductory paragraph. Throughout the statement, honestly describe your child’s character and personality.

The criteria for Parent Statements differ from one school to another. While some institutions offer specific prompts, others adopt a broader approach. Regardless, these statements should be succinct, ideally no longer than the stipulated limit or a single page. Consider the perspective of an admissions officer faced with reading hundreds of Parent Statements. Being concise is crucial. To effectively convey your child’s personality and your family’s educational values, every word must be impactful. It’s advisable to allocate ample time for drafting and refining your statement, ensuring relevant details are provided and unnecessary adjectives are eliminated.

Your following paragraph should delineate why you believe your child would thrive in that specific school. Reference particular programs or offerings the school provides that intrigue your child. Conclude by communicating briefly why you, as parents, are enthusiastic about the school and how you intend to be supportive.

Your task, in a nutshell, is to encapsulate your child’s personality and your family’s stance on education in 650 words or less. In addition, indicate what the school can anticipate from you as parents if your child is admitted. This might sound straightforward, but it’s a nuanced endeavor. Before you start, ensure you understand any prompts provided by the school. Familiarize yourself with the school’s mission and educational philosophy, so you can echo similar values when portraying your child. Reflect on instances where your child’s actions or reactions mirrored the school’s values or beliefs. Choose

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In the subsequent paragraph, delve into your child’s learning inclinations. Highlight subjects they excel in and areas they find challenging. If they’ve faced academic hurdles, outline the support that aided them. Alternatively, if they haven’t faced academic obstacles, touch upon other challenges, perhaps social, familial or physical, and how they navigated them.

Once written, revisit your statement multiple times, refining and honing. Ensure your introductory sentence captivates the reader, and the subsequent content sustains their interest. Your narrative should illuminate desired traits in your child, while steering clear of excessive adjectives, ostentation, speculative statements, and embellishments. If you’re repurposing this statement for multiple schools, double-check that you’ve adjusted the school’s name accordingly. The Parent Statement is a useful avenue to spotlight unique facets of your child and family. Whether it’s emphasizing a diverse background or recounting challenges your family confronted and how your child responded, this is your opportunity to offer a more profound insight into your child. Lastly, review and refine your statement once more. Your diligence will be well worth the effort. •

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Interview Preparation 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 him to talk up his 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 he sees it as a match for his own personality, academic strengths, interests, and aspirations. So, hopefully, during visits, or in talking to students and faculty, your child has encountered programs or a learning environment that excites him.

he idea of your child having to interview to gain admission to a private school sounds downright terrifying. But private school experts say you shouldn’t think of the interview as a high-stakes interrogation. Rather, think of the interview as a two-way conversation that helps everyone involved—school staff, parents, and child—determine if the school is the right fit for your child. The structure of the interview also depends on the school and your child’s age. Typically, the applicant and her family come to the school to look around and talk with an admissions officer or other school staff. The staff might focus on talking with the parents, but with older children and high school students, an admissions officer might speak privately with the child in a formal or more casual situation. 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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• Talk about subjects or teachers you like. Help your child figure out certain coursework that has recently engaged him, such as a certain book in English class or a social studies field trip to see Egyptian mummies at a museum. Given that the interview is also a chance for you and your child to learn more about the school, help your child prepare to ask questions. Look at the school’s website or think back to visits and help him come up with a list of questions that reflects how the school might nurture his interests. “Will I be able to do dissections in sixth-grade biology?” “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 his interest in coming to the school. Parents and students should always be honest, experts say. But that doesn’t mean you should accentuate your child’s weaknesses, provide too much information about family challenges, or bad-mouth your child’s current school, even if this current school environment is mostly negative and the reason he’s trying to change schools. 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. • www.ParentsPress.com

KINDERGARTEN -BTH GRADE

Lower & Middle School Virtual Q&A Dates October 11, 2023 November 16, 2023

October 25, 2023 December 6, 2023

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Get Noticed in a Virtual Admissions Interview presence, and practice projecting a clear voice. If possible, record these practice sessions for feedback. It’s crucial to advise your child against nervous habits like fidgeting or excessive gesturing, which can be distracting in a virtual setting. Just as with a face-to-face interview, attire matters. Ensure your child dresses in a manner that’s both comfortable and in line with the school’s dress code. The goal is to convey respect and leave a lasting impression.

There may come a time when an in-person interview isn’t feasible. Perhaps your family is relocating to the area of the school or you’re considering a distant boarding school. How can you, or more importantly, your child, ensure a successful virtual interview? The following tips offer guidance. In recent years, virtual calls, classes, interviews, and presentations have become commonplace. If you haven’t established a virtual office at home, start by setting up a tidy space with ample lighting and a non-distracting background. To prevent shadowy visuals, consider using a ring light and avoiding direct backlighting from windows. Position the camera at your child’s eye level — placing your laptop on boxes can help achieve this. If your child wants to showcase a hobby, consider a custom background with relevant imagery, be it their artwork, a beloved sports figure, a memorable travel destination, or a pet. This personal touch can be a great conversation starter. Choose a location that minimizes interruptions from pets, deliveries, landscaping noise, or siblings. If you’re unfamiliar with virtual meetings, determine the platform the school will use and practice with a friend. Adjust camera angles, teach your child to maintain their on-screen

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Arrange a mock interview with an adult unfamiliar to your child. This allows them to acclimatize to the digital format and refine their virtual etiquette, such as logging in early to account for technical issues, avoiding phone distractions, and keeping snacks out of sight. It’s acceptable to have a glass of water nearby, but leave it at that. Ensure your child attends to any personal needs before the call starts. Establish whether parents should remain present during the interview. While it’s advisable for a parent to be available for initial tech troubleshooting, it’s best to give your child space once the interview commences. Encourage your child to jot down notes, especially if they encounter challenging questions. Ahead of time, prepare a list of 5-6 questions they can refer to if asked. During the conversation, prompt them to note down intriguing points or further questions, ensuring they’re engaged and proactive throughout. As the session concludes, remind your child to express gratitude. If something piqued their interest, they should ask the interviewer for more resources or insights on that topic. Lastly, always follow up. A handwritten thankyou note, referencing a personal tidbit from the interview, leaves a lasting impression. If the admissions officer works remotely, a thoughtful video message or email is a suitable alternative.

•

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First-choice Letters: Should You Write One?

f you’re aiming high in the school search, given that you should only write one firstespecially for highly selective private schools, you choice letter. If you’re unsure about a clear top might consider submitting a “First-Choice” or choice, consider writing about your admiration “Top-Choice” letter. What exactly is a first-choice for the school, referencing specific interactions letter? For younger students, it’s a letter written by and detailing why it’s a great fit for your child the parents; for middle school students or older, and family. it’s written by the student. The letter tells the admission officers that if admitted to their school, WHAT TO INCLUDE they will accept. Choosing to write a first-choice letter? Ensure you highlight why you believe the school is However, first-choice letters are not universally the perfect fit for your child. Dive into the appreciated. Most schools welcome them, while details: reference specific aspects of the some view them as taboo. It’s essential to research school and align them with your child’s ethos whether your top school accepts or discourages or aspirations. Aligning your child’s attributes such letters. While some admissions officials might with the school’s mission can make a powerful find them distasteful, there are schools where, statement. rumor has it, an application is virtually incomplete without one. The best approach? Consult with the admissions director of your top-choice school TIMING OF THE LETTER to gauge their stance. Only proceed if you’re not If your top-choice school has a set admissions dissuaded, and if you don’t fall into one of the deadline (and assuming the acceptance situations mentioned below. schedule is similar to larger metropolitan areas), it’s optimal to send your letter after the application deadline, but ideally just WHEN NOT TO WRITE A FIRST-CHOICE before admission decision-making, usually in LETTER January or February. Remember to be concise; Avoid writing a first-choice letter if: admissions staff are swamped during this - Your child’s acceptance hinges on a specific period. If there’s a toss-up between your child financial aid package. While it’s unlikely that a and another applicant, your letter might just tip school would offer less aid because of such a letter, the balance in your favor. It’s worth noting that you’d be in a bind if the aid given falls short of your some schools assess their performance based expectations. on yield — the ratio of accepted offers to total offers made. A first-choice letter can influence - You’re contemplating multiple top choices. It’s a this metric, reinforcing its potential importance in the admissions process. • 50

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The Acceptance and Decision

he application is completed, interviews and • Ask to talk to some teachers. shadow days all done—all that’s left is waiting • Talk to graduates or current families of the for the acceptance letter (or email) and then school—especially any who have come from the big decision. Usually, acceptance (or rejection your child’s current school. or waitlist) notifications go out on a Friday in mid• Encourage your child to talk to other March, and families then have seven days to decide students. where their child will attend. So how to make the ONCE YOU DECIDE decision? When you learn about your child’s acceptance, • Be sure to contact the school you choose by you will also learn about financial assistance the reply deadline. awards. If the grant you receive does not meet • Let all schools where you were admitted your needs, or if you are not awarded any financial know of your final decision so they can assistance, contact the school’s financial assistance contact other families on their wait list. officer to learn about other options. • Return your signed enrollment contract and The following are tips on choosing a school from tuition deposit. the National Association of Independent Schools.

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 to make sure it feels right.

• Call the school right away and let admissions officials know that you are very interested. Stay in touch with them throughout the summer. Sometimes children can be accepted off the waitlist just days before school begins.

DECIDING ON A SCHOOL • Discuss the options as a family. • Make a pro and con list for each possible school. • Revisit your notes from tours and open houses. Follow your heart. Revisit your wish list to make sure you’ve fulfilled your priorities. Be sure that your child will thrive in the school community you choose.

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE • Consider a second visit to the school; have your child do a shadow day if she hasn’t already. 52

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IF YOU’RE REJECTED • Consider other schools. • Ask the school for feedback about what factors made the difference. Try to approach the issue in a nonjudgmental way; tell the admissions staff you want to get information that can help your child do better in the future. •

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Shu Ren inspires students with a love of learning through an inquiry-based, Mandarin immersion program that prepares students with the heart and mind to thrive in an evolving global society. • Mandarin Immersion • Inquiry-Based Curriculum • We accept learners of all Mandarin levels!

SAN JOSE

Pre-Kindergarten - Elementary

540 Sands Drive, Bldg B San Jose, CA 95125 408-508-6259

Join Us for a Tour! BERKELEY

BERKELEY WESTBRAE

2125 Jefferson Avenue Berkeley, CA 94703 510-841-8899

1422 San Pablo Avenue Berkeley, CA 94702 510-833-7789

Pre-Kindergarten - Middle School

Pre-Kindergarten

Preschool license numbers: Berkeley: 013423047, San Jose: 434417015 Enrollment to the new campus is subject to obtaining a state license.

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Financial Assistance Basics

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.

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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. www.ParentsPress.com

Contra Costa Christian Schools Come see why we are ranked the #1 Christian High School in Contra Costa County on niche.com • Small Class Sizes • 100% Graduation Rate • Whole Child Education • No Limit on AP Classes • Strong Arts Program • Successful Athletics Program

925-934-4964 www.contracostachristianschools.org

Preschool–12th Grade • WASC/CSI Accredited

We speak Spanish And we learn the language of… DIVERSITY

OPTIMISM

CARING

SUCCESS

When children learn a second language, they become more than bilingual. Under the guidance of our nurturing teachers, they also improve academic performance, cognitive functioning, cultural awareness, and social and emotional development. All this translates into greater confidence, both at school and in life!

Now Enrolling! Call (877) 442-2555 or visit www.ksspreschool.com.

Explore

Spanish Immersion Preschool - Kindergarten* Tuition Assistance Available! www.ParentsPress.com

Our Bay Area Locations Albany 1331 Portland Avenue Oakland-Montclair 1650 Mountain Blvd. Oakland-Lincoln Highlands 2540 Charleston St. Walnut Creek 2780 Camino Diablo San Jose-Willow Glen 540 Sands Drive *Kindergarten available at select campuses. Preschool license numbers: Albany: 013423069, Oakland-Montclair: 013423070, Oakland-Lincoln Highlands: 013423101, Walnut Creek: 073408282, San Jose: 434415592.

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Fearless, We Pursue

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Find out more at shcp.edu/visit Guide to Private Schools

Myths About Financial Assistance 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. 58

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. •

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

Our Mission & Vision At Acton, we believe every child who walks into our school is a genius with the potential to change the world. We believe students should be in control of their learning and advancement, in a community that closely resembles the real world. We believe students can, and should, teach one another and work collaboratively to grow. What sets us apart: • Small Class Sizes • Mixed-age Classroom • Focus on Independent and Critical Thinking

• Self-Paced Learning • No homework • Hands on Project based learning

Come take a tour to find out why thousands of families across the globe entrust Acton Academy with their learners education.

3110 Constitution Drive | Livermore, CA 94551 | 925-264-9477 www.actoneastbay.org

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The School of the Madeleine

The School of the Madeleine is a vibrant, inclusive, K-8 Catholic school in Berkeley. We are dedicated to the education of the whole is a body, vibrant,and inclusive, school Berkeley. to child—mind, spirit. K-8 OurCatholic leadership is in committed For 85 years, we have spiritual delivered development, a high-quality, values-based education. academic excellence, and social justice. Our school follows the four Dominican Pillars of Community, and Service. We believe that Faith, everyStudy, student is exceptional, and in the tradition

of Catholic education, our mission is to help them become lifelong In addition to our strong academic program, we offer music, learners and compassionate citizens who care for one another. We band, Spanish, art, 1:1 iPads, tech lab, partner teachers, welcome every family with open arms and invite you to learn more learning support, and after-care program. about our community. Come see what we are all about!

www.themadeleine.com

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Featured Profiles

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Prospect Sierra School

Prospect Sierra gives students the tools to build a better world, by integrating rigorous academics with a deep understanding of human emotions. Everyday our talented teachers help students connect academic experiences with ideals like ethics and empathy. The result is deeper intellectual engagement, greater self-knowledge, and compassionate relationships. Prospect Sierra students emerge with the courage to be great people, not just great students. At Prospect Sierra we are leading the conversation about the link between intellectual and emotional learning. Prospect Sierra faculty regularly present at national conferences on best practices in education, equity and inclusion, emotional intelligence, and more. Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on experiences, critical thinking, and creative collaboration. Our project-based curriculum combines academics and arts with social-emotional learning, service, innovative technology, and an emphasis on equity and inclusion. This integrated approach encourages students to make connections between their learning at school and their growing awareness with the outside world.

Prospect Sierra is an independent TK-8 school of 470 students. Our two spacious campuses are located in El Cerrito, with shuttle transportation to Berkeley and Oakland. Contact the admissions office at admissions@ prospectsierra.org to learn more! Elementary School (TK-4) 2060 Tapscott Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530 510.809.9018 Middle School (5-8) 960 Avis Drive, El Cerrito, CA 94530 510.809.9025

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www.prospectsierra.org 62

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Park Day School

Park Day School provides a strong academic foundation where students learn by doing and are encouraged to follow their own curiosity. With a focus on developing intrinsic motivation, Park Day’s robust interdisciplinary academic program includes an emphasis on social justice and social emotional learning. Classes are designed to prepare students to be informed, courageous, and compassionate people who shape a more equitable and sustainable world while nurturing a love of learning. Language Arts at Park Day focuses on empowering students to read, write, listen, speak, and defend their ideas. We strive to foster intellectually curious, independent thinkers who use literacy to make sense of the world. Mathematics at Park Day cultivates a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, instills proficiency with key core skills, and develops student ability to solve complex and novel problems. Students are encouraged to find multiple ways to solve problems and build more flexible and efficient ways to solve increasingly complex problems.

Spanish, the innovation workshop, art, music, learning garden, and physical education are all key parts of the Park Day program. As a progressive school, Park Day strives to create an environment where students can dream big, take risks, and innovate. Teachers measure and document student growth on an ongoing basis across subject areas. Embedded within a social and emotional framework, assessments ensure each student gets the support and guidance needed to build on past successes. Visit parkdayschool.org to register for a school tour or campus visit.

Science at Park Day explores biology, chemistry, physics, ecology, and engineering. Specific study areas are assessed and selected using personal relevance to students’ daily lives, local and global events, the availability of local resources and field trip opportunities.

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Social Studies at Park Day revolves around two core standing inquiries: “What do we think we know?” and “what can we learn from history and different cultures?” Teachers integrate significant world events to inform Social Studies content, being mindful of age appropriate stages of development across the grades.

360 42nd St. | Oakland, CA 94609 | 510-653-0317 www.parkdayschool.org

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Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory

Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory is a Lasallian Vincentian Catholic 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. We welcome the Bay Area’s brightest to our inclusive community. Our dynamic curriculum, integrated technology and dedicated and innovative teachers prepare our students for success. Hundreds of colleges across the country, including all of US News & World Reports Top 10 National Universities, accept SHC graduates. We believe in the power of student-centered learning— that their natural curiosity should drive their intellectual path. Academic rigor starts with an innate desire to learn. This inquiry, drive and thirst for knowledge are the most important elements of their education. It’s our desire to provide students with the highest-quality resources, the passion and training of our faculty, and the time and flexibility to excel throughout these four transformative years.

SHC’s curriculum includes rigorous core classes, engaging electives and challenging Honors and Advanced Placement courses. We teach our students to use the tools most relevant to them in a digitally diverse and ever-changing world. Our students have the autonomy to select the technology of their choice with our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program, a philosophy more in line with practices in current higher education and their future workplace. Students and their families choose SHC for the strength of our academics, our faith and values, our extensive array of cocurricular opportunities, and for the warmth of our inclusive and nurturing community. To schedule a visit, please visit shcp.edu to see the opportunities available to your family.

1055 Ellis St. | San Francisco, CA 94109 | 415.775.6626 shcp.edu 64

Guide to Private Schools

The Athenian School is a 6-12 all-gender day and boarding school with 535+ students. The average class size is 15. Athenian believes the best way to fully comprehend academic subjects is to experience their application first hand. In our rigorous academic program, students from throughout the Bay Area and around the world immerse themselves in coursework, inspiring each other to think critically and collaborate. Athenian helps cultivate character, the skills and self-assuredness needed for success and fulfillment in college and beyond, and lifelong friendships. Middle School (Grades 6-8, 171 Students) The Middle School has many distinctive qualities, including Focus Days which exemplify Athenian’s experiential approach. Core subjects meet four days every week to allow for a full day of dedicated hands-on learning where students synthesize material and deepen their understanding. Focus Days are a true adventure, taking students out of their typical classroom setting and turning school into what it should be–a place where learning is fun, curiosity is nurtured, and teamwork is the norm. Upper School (Grades 9-12, 365 Students) Athenian is a founding member of Round Square, a worldwide network of schools. Round Square schools are committed to developing culturally competent global citizens and share six IDEALS: internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership and service. In the Upper School, these show up in the classroom and in programs like its student-run government, international conferences and exchanges, community

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The Athenian School

service, and clubs and affinity groups. Students also participate in the Athenian Wilderness Experience, a 26-day backpacking adventure that develops skills such as personal and community responsibility, empathy and self-reflection. Post High School Throughout the Upper School grades, Athenian works with families to educate and equip them with the tools needed to navigate the college admission process. Our college counseling team ( 32:1 student/counselor ratio), believes that the college exploration and application process is a continuation of an Athenian education and a time for self-discovery. Throughout the 6-12 experience Athenian prioritizes deep and joyful learning. We invite you to learn more. Join us at an Open House: Middle – Nov 4 & Jan 20 Upper – Nov 12 & Jan 21

2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. • Danville, CA 94506 • 925-837-5375 www.athenian.org Guide to Private Schools

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Bentley School

Bentley School is an intellectually curious and inclusive community where teachers help students embrace their own strengths to rise to their full potential. In a challenging academic environment, we meet students where they are, empowering them to cultivate their unique talents, skills, and perspectives. Bentley students are taught how to think rather than what to think. From Kindergarten through 12th grade, each individual is guided by the motto, Scire Desidero, "I desire to know." They seek to understand the world, others, and themselves through a supportive culture that values diverse perspectives and a dynamic programming that ignites learning through inquiry. At Bentley, faculty and admin encourage a strong sense of agency for students, fostering self-advocacy that, in balance with high academic achievement, prepares each graduate for a lifetime of success — in college and beyond the walls of any classroom. Lower School (Grades K-5): "I desire to know the world." In a nurturing and developmentally appropriate program, Bentley lays the foundation for academic and individual success by helping students develop a deep knowledge base balanced with healthy social and emotional growth. Faculty meet students where they are, using a combination of direct instruction, independent practice, hands-on learning, and cooperative group work to promote their students’ intellectual growth and reasoning. In Bentley Lower School, students are also exposed to art, fitness, music, and world languages (French, Spanish, and Mandarin).

navigate challenges as they learn skills to progress from concrete to analytical thinkers. Bentley faculty encourage students to think abstractly and develop excellent communication skills with hands-on projects, open-ended questions, and comprehensive problems. Students learn to think mathematically, scientifically, and creatively and leave 8th grade confident and wellprepared to meet the needs of the college preparatory program at the Upper School. Upper School (Grades 9-12): "I desire to know myself.” In a highly-supportive, high-expectations environment, Bentley students work with their advisors to choose from academically challenging courses and cocurricular opportunities to build a program of study that hones their ability to collaborate, problem solve, adapt, initiate, analyze, and imagine. Bentley’s Upper School college preparatory curriculum and graduation requirements exceed recommendations of the University of California's A-G requirements. At Bentley, graduates are emotionally and intellectually resilient individuals adept at advocating for themselves while channeling their joy of learning to achieve success in college and beyond. To learn more, visit www.bentleyschool.org.

Middle School (Grades 6-8): "I desire to know others." In Bentley Middle School, students are educated in a multi-classroom and multi-teacher model that fosters a culture of peer-to-peer, faculty-to-student support. As students grow into early adolescence, teachers nurture resilience and help students

K-8 Campus in Oakland 510-843-2512 | 9-12 Campus in Lafayette 925-283-2101 www.bentleyschool.org 66

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Salesian College Preparatory

Educational Model The Salesian College Preparatory (SCP) educational model serves to create a caring, loving, and nurturing environment where the young of all faiths can learn (school), grow in faith (church), feel a sense of belonging (home), and ultimately be happy (playground). The students are always at the center of all we do at Salesian, as “Education is a matter of the heart.” St. John Bosco Robust Transportation Program Our transportation program plays an important role in getting many of our students to and from school. Salesian offers van service throughout the East Bay including Berkeley, Oakland, Fairfield, Benicia, Vallejo, Hercules, Pinole, Concord, Antioch, and Pittsburg with new routes added annually as needed.. Rooted in Social Justice, Rich With Diversity Salesian believes that understanding the past is imperative to our ability to live in the present and shape a more stable future. We strive to offer our students a comprehensive window into the past through connecting historically relevant issues with contemporary events while exploring our shared and individual experiences. Salesian has the pleasure and privilege of instructing a racially, ethnically, ideologically, and intellectually diverse collection of students, which provides opportunities to think more critically of the world around them and encourages them to build a more just society.

County offering Project Lead the Way's Biomedical Science pathway designed for students who excel in mathematics and natural sciences and are interested in the fields of biology or medicine. This program provides a transformative learning experience. Students who complete the four year program graduate with transportable skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication, and ethical reasoning and mindset College Preparatory with Top Tier Acceptances Students who enjoy an environment of discovery thrive at Salesian. Salesian should be the college preparatory high school of choice for families who seek a rigorous and challenging academic environment that mirrors the diversity of the East Bay and our world. It is a real life experience that nurtures the whole student, preparing them for college and life beyond. Salesian graduates have been accepted to California’s top tier UCs, CSUs, and many prestigious colleges including Stanford, Howard and Georgetown.

Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Pathway Salesian is the only private co-educational college preparatory school in Contra Costa 2851 Salesian Ave • Richmond • CA • 94804 • 510-234-4433 www.salesian.com

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East Bay German International School

The East Bay German International School (EBGIS) is a dual-language immersion IB World School offering preschool through high school programs. The highly trained international faculty at EBGIS provides a rigorous, project-based program based on proven German and International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula and literature-rich English Language Arts instruction. EBGIS is an IB World School offering the prestigious IB Diploma Programme in grades 11 and 12. EBGIS students develop their strengths across academic disciplines as well as their critical thinking skills, social-emotional competencies, and artistic abilities. The EBGIS Early Childhood Program employs a playbased and project-oriented approach widely used in Germany. The bilingual preschool and kindergarten faculty use early immersion principles to expand children’s communicative competencies in both German and English. A pre-academic curriculum, including language, intercultural studies, science, mathematics, music, movement, and art, is taught in an engaging and developmentally appropriate way. Social and emotional skills development infuses every school day. EBGIS has met the high standards required for IB authorization and is an official IB World School. All EBGIS eleventh and twelfth graders will enter the IB Diploma Programme (DP). Often referred to as the “gold

standard” in high school education, the IB provides a rigorous and holistic program developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people. The DP is internationally recognized as representing one of the highest standards in university preparatory education. EBGIS high schoolers will graduate with not only the standard IB Diploma but the Bilingual IB Diploma. The bilingual diploma is a distinction awarded to just a quarter of IB Diploma candidates worldwide. It demonstrates that, in addition to having the tremendous breadth and depth of knowledge required by the IB, the student has successfully completed high-level coursework in two languages. No prior knowledge of German is needed for admission to EBGIS Preschool or Kindergarten. EBGIS Early Childhood students acquire German at school and transition successfully to the EBGIS grades program. The EBGIS IB Diploma Programme is also open to students who do not speak German. Students joining the Diploma Programme in eleventh and twelfth grades may select either Spanish or French courses to fulfill their second language requirement for the IB diploma. Online information sessions and campus tours are available. Please contact admissions@ebgis.org.

1070 41st Street | Emeryville, CA 94608 | 510-380-0302 www.ebgis.org 68

Guide to Private Schools

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Holy Names High School

HOL Y

OL HO

ES HIGH S C AM N

OA K L A

,C ND

Holy Names High School (HNHS) graduates leave our campus with the confidence, skills, and motivation they need to be successful in the world on their next chosen path. We promote the full development of our students through a rigorous college prep education that includes a breadth of science and arts courses while integrating the values of social solidarity, justice, human rights, and protection of the environment. Every young woman can find her voice and use it to positively impact her community. What students and their families can expect at Holy Names: Academic rigor: We focus on providing an engaging and challenging curriculum to prepare our graduates to enter the school of their choice. Each student gets the individualized support they need to master their subjects. STEM Curriculum: Our single-gender environment and focus on providing a foundation in STEM curriculum in a positive environment means many of our graduates go into STEM careers. They also express higher levels of confidence in math, science, technology, and other currently male-dominated areas of study. Mastery of the Arts: Our Visual and Performing Arts program is a key component of our mission to educate the whole person. We offer choral and instrumental music, studio art (including AP), and drama. Our digital video production (DVP) program includes a state-of-theart broadcasting studio and industry-standard tools, and alumnae working in the field regularly return to mentor students.

they belong and can be successful in any space. Diversity and inclusion: Our community is comprised of students from a multitude of backgrounds and faiths. They come from a wide array of cultures, socioeconomic opportunity or disadvantage, life experiences, identities and viewpoints. In our intimate and supportive environment, we embrace all that our students are and strive to create a truly inclusive and welcoming community for all. Leadership opportunities: Our students are the MCs for every event, the tour guides for prospective families, the initiators for clubs, service opportunities, social events, and more. Every class includes a presentation component to help students build their speaking and organizational skills, and our Student Ambassadors, Student Council, and club leaders have multiple opportunities to lead in both small and large environments. Athletics: Our inclusive approach allows students to try new sports and participate on our JV development teams or compete on our Varsity teams. Our sports teams regularly achieve all-league honors and qualify for NCS postseason play while building sportsmanship, teamwork, responsibility, and respect for self and others. Open House: November 5, 2023 Learn more, schedule a visit, & apply today at hnhsoakland.org/admissions

College Access: Our on-campus UC-certified counselors leverage decades of expertise in college admissions and work 1:1 with students from their first year. From college selection criteria and application assistance to financial aid forms and essays, our counselors work with students to ensure students find the best fit academically, socially, and financially to thrive in college while reducing financial burden. Supportive Community: We foster a sense of sisterhood and camaraderie that leads to constructive problem solving and students that cheer each other on as they take on new challenges. Our graduates are confident that

4660 Harbord Drive | Oakland, CA 94618 | 510-450-1110 www.hnhsoakland.org

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Maybeck High School

Maybeck High School has been educating students in the East Bay since 1972. Through the years we have challenged young people to push, explore, and stretch their imagination. In the science lab, the art room, around a seminar table, or hiking in the woods, we know that when teachers and students see themselves as collaborators the relationship is strong and the learning is rich. Maybeck is a small school of 115 students and 25 educators. We were founded by teachers who created a school where questions are just as important as answers, where time and space is created to sit with inspired topics, where laughter is frequent, and learning is celebrated.

Open House Dates: • Saturday, October 21 @ 10:30 am. • Saturday, November 4 @ 10:30 am. To register for events and apply for the 2024-2025 school year, please go to ravenna-hub.com to get started.

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Be curious. Be inspired. Be yourself.

2727 College Avenue | Berkeley, CA 94705 | 510-841-8489 www.maybeckhs.org 70

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Founded in 1887, Head-Royce—a nationally recognized K-12 independent school—offers a challenging program focused on educating the whole child. Nestled in a wooded canyon in the Oakland hills on a single campus, our environment is a safe and inviting space well-suited for intellectual adventure and selfdiscovery. Our mission is to inspire in our students a lifelong love of learning and pursuit of academic excellence, to promote understanding of and respect for the diversity that makes our society strong, and to encourage constructive and responsible global citizenship. Head-Royce enrolls a diverse student body of approximately 900 talented and ambitious learners. Our admissions are open to all students regardless of race, color, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, or ethnic origin. We are proud to call ourselves a school both in and of Oakland, with families that reflect the fabric of the Bay Area. The remarkable and innovative thinking launched by Anna Head over 135 years ago, is a source of pride and remains infused in our culture today. Her spirit of inquiry and innovation are reflected throughout our campus, where you will find everything from global learning opportunities, rigorous academics, robotics labs, and integrated technology, to athletics opportunities, performing arts, service learning, and small advising groups. We are equally dedicated to educational excellence and social-emotional learning.

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Head-Royce School

At our heart, we are a community of passionate educators all sharing a deep commitment to creating lifelong learners who will be prepared to lead with joy and compassion. Our world-class faculty bring unique perspectives from a wide range of experiences. Their diversity of thought, coupled with their subject-matter mastery, positions them to provide transformative experiences to students across all divisions. We invite you to explore how Head-Royce uniquely serves Bay Area families seeking a rigorous and inspired academic experience in a diverse and inclusive setting. Please visit our website for opportunities to tour the school and learn how we provide a transformative education.

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4315 Lincoln Ave • Oakland • CA • 94602 • 510-531-1300 www.headroyce.org Guide to Private Schools

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Escuela Bilingüe Internacional

Escuela Bilingüe Internacional (EBI) offers a PK-8 multilingual, international education that inspires students to engage with a changing global world with both character and empathy. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) world school in the heart of the East Bay, EBI's program is designed to prepare students to actively engage with a changing world. At EBI, Pre-Kinder to grade 8 students learn in an immersive Spanish language environment, where they begin their journey of cultural awareness and develop fluency in a language other than English. With the addition of Mandarin in grade 3, students expand their cultural and linguistic competencies. Graduates of EBI are fully literate in both Spanish and English and have basic conversational skills in Mandarin. EBI’s Language Acquisition Track in the Middle School allows students with little to no Spanish background to also engage in an immersive Spanish language environment through accelerated Spanish language classes and electives to develop their fluency.

EBI understands the value of language immersion education and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. EBI is only one of four independent schools in the United States that provides a PK-8 IB education in a Spanish-English immersion program and the only one on the West Coast. In an environment of globalization, EBI becomes bigger, stronger, and more relevant because of its mission and core values. We invite you to join us on an upcoming tour, Information Session and our signature Diversity Reception. You are also welcome to join our free Spanish Story time (Cuenta Cuentos) every second Saturday of the month, one of our many enrichment courses or participate in one of our summer camps. We look forward to meeting you soon! admissions@ebinternacional.org * Top picture: PK is where a love of learning begins. Bottom picture: Grade 4 students in a morning circle.

Engage. Be Global. Inspire. EBI students have an astute awareness of their role as members of the global community. From that awareness, our students are positioned to transform the world. EBI develops students with a lifelong love of learning, which translates into a lifetime of opportunity.

PK to Grade 1 | 410 Alcatraz Ave • Oakland • CA • 94609 • 510-653-3324 Grades 2 to 8 | 4550 San Pablo Ave • Emeryville • CA • 94608 • 510-652-7094 www.ebi.school 72

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California Crosspoint Academy

CALIFORNIA CROSSPOINT ACADEMY Pre-school to 12th Grade

CCA takes learning very seriously, and our academic record speaks for itself. 100% of our grads go on to college or the military. Founded in 1979, our academics rank among the very best in the nation with graduates accepted by UC Berkeley, UCLA, Yale, Cornell, Johns Hopkins, and West Point. Our small high school classes, 20 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, and 11:1 student to faculty ratio make for an intimate, creative, and collaborative learning environment. With “Access to Opportunities” for all students, individuals are encouraged and challenged to try a new sport, participate in performing arts for the ﬁrst time, run for student government, and start a new club that matches their passion. Our formative grades provide a multi-faceted experience preparing our students to enter our high school programs seamlessly. Middle school students are introduced to high school level academics, foreign language acquisition and extracurricular activities. Elementary and preschool students learn character development as well as academics in a well-rounded and welcoming setting. Creative and technology resources motivate all our students through hands-on classroom activities, outdoor education, and ﬁeld trips.

eight team sports for boys and girls, student led clubs, and class trips both domestic and abroad. Walk through the halls, talk to our people, and you will quickly realize there is something special here. We seek to minister to the entire student and develop young people to be academically strong as well as spiritually and emotionally healthy. Our motto “Transforming Lives for the Glory of God” and our mission to fully equip students to discover God’s will and purpose for their individual life create this foundation. Stats for the CCA University Preparatory Program: • 100% of our grads go on to college or the military • 90% accepted into 4 year colleges • Average class size 15-18 (high school) / 20 (K-12) • Scholarship program available To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact us at www.crosspointacademy.org

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Our highly qualiﬁed faculty, 60% of whom have Master’s or Ph.D.’s, are not simply instructors, but tutors and mentors for our student body. California Crosspoint Academy is often described as family. We care about and care for one another. Life-long student relationships develop through 25500 Industrial Blvd • Hayward • CA • 94545 • 510-995-5333 www.crosspointacademy.org

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Redwood Christian Schools

The mission of Redwood Christian Schools is to provide a Christ-centered education which is able to equip students for daily living and eternal life and inspire students to reach their full potential. Redwood Christian Schools is a private learning community serving the children in the East Bay Area as well as international students from around the world. We are located 25 miles southeast of San Francisco and currently equip homeschool students and students on two campuses: one in Castro Valley for children in transitional Kindergarten (TK) to grade five, and the second in San Lorenzo for children in grade six to grade twelve. Redwood Christian Schools is committed to maintain our legacy as an interdenominational Christcentered school serving families from more than 130 churches representing more than 30 Christian denominations. While academics and faith are the top priority, we also offer competitive athletics and comprehensive programs in fine arts. The objectives of the school are centered around establishing Christian Truth as a guide for life, maintaining a high academic standard, instilling pure morals, generating a spirit of patriotism, and living a disciplined life.

In middle school, teachers "Inspire Innovation," challenging grades 6th-8th to become creative problem solvers. Finally, in high school, teachers "Inspire Application" giving students opportunities to apply learning in different ways. RCS is committed to being excellent educators, spiritual mentors, and responsible stewards. Furthermore, RCS has a rich history of inspiring students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in the future – children should blossom as unique individuals created in the image of God as they discover their calling. We are excited to invite you to our upcoming School Information Nights. You will hear from our superintendent and administrators about our school values and goal to foster strong partnerships between home and school. We look forward to sharing our educational approach, curriculum, and extracurricular opportunities for the upcoming academic year. Join us at one of the following events: September 28th, 5:00pm - TK - 5th grade info night October 12th, 5:30pm - 6th - 12th info night November 16th, 7:00pm - All school info night

RCS seeks to not just take care of students, but inspire them to reach their full potential. In grades TK and Kindergarten, teachers are "Inspiring Fun," giving students a full day, hands-on, stimulating first experience to school. In grades 1st-3rd, teachers are "Inspiring Adventure," instilling a growth mindset and showing students how to exceed amidst challenges. In grades 4th-5th, teachers "Inspire Motivation," helping upper elementary students become more independent and responsible learners.

4200 James Ave • Castro Valley • CA • 94546 • 510-889-7526 www.rcs.edu 74

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Coastline Christian Schools was established in 1979 and provides a comprehensive K-8 Christian education along with a K-8 Mandarin language program. Coastline Christian Schools is fully accredited by the WASC and ACSI. nesizedoesnotfitall,andoneteachingmethod O does not suit every lesson or student. Our teachers pay close attention and develop caring relationshipswithourstudents,allowingfor theadaptationofcurriculatomeetthesocial, emotional,andeducationalneedsofeveryone.

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Coastline Christian Schools

Students at Coastline Christian are enriched by athletics,volunteeropportunities,classtrips,and other extracurricular activities. While our school is knownforitsacademicfocus,ourdesireistohelp students from varied cultural backgrounds grow in a positive and caring community. CCS equips itsstudentsspiritually,academically,emotionally, socially,andphysicallysotheycanserveGod,their families,andtheircommunitywithcompassion, resilience,innovation,andleadership.

1801 North Loop Road • Alameda, CA 94502 • 510. 522.0200 www.coastlinechristian.org

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Moreau Catholic High School

“We shall always place education side by side with instruction; the mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart.” —Blessed Basil Moreau, Founder Moreau Catholic High School is a diverse and inclusive learning community empowering the next generation of leaders through excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. Students become a part of the Mariner family, where both their hearts and minds are educated. They build respect for themselves and others, and they bring hope to the world. Moreau Catholic is part of the international Holy Cross community that believes in meeting students where they are in order to help them grow as a whole person in the classroom, on the athletic field, and on the stage. Academic Excellence

Artistic Excellence • Award-winning Band & Orchestra, and internationally recognized Jazz Ensemble • First UC accredited Honors Dance class on the west coast • Beginning to AP/Honors level classes in Band, Choir, Dance, Theatre, and Visual Arts Athletic Excellence • Girls’ Basketball team: NCS Division II Finalists (2023) • Badminton: NCS Scholastic Championship Team award for cumulative team GPA of 3.82 (2023) • 75% of students play on 51 competitive level teams in 21 sports

• 99% college attendance with acceptances into Stanford, UC Berkeley, Johns Hopkins University, and UCLA

Admissions Events

• 46 Honors and Advanced Placement courses, including 10 STEM APs

Morning (8:30-10:00) - 9/19, 10/25, 11/9, 12/12 Evening (6:00-8:00) - 9/21, 10/26, 11/16

• AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding access to AP Computer Science Principles for young women (2021 & 2022)

Open House:

• 50 AP Scholars, 10 AP Scholars with Honor, and 25 AP Scholars with Distinction (2022) • One of only three pilot high schools in the country selected for University of Notre Dame’s College BouND Scholars Program (2022)

Admissions Tours:

Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 9:00 am-12:00 pm Mariner for a Day: Various times and days Register for all events: www.moreaucatholic.org/ admissions/visit

• Saints & Scholars support program for students with documented learning disabilities • All students have access to the state of the art Living and Learning Commons, the Academic Support Center, and National Honors Society peer tutors for academic support

27170 Mission Blvd | Hayward, CA 94544 | 510-881-4300 www.moreaucatholic.org 76

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Established in 1988, Aurora School’s mission is to nurture children’s love of learning by cultivating academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and social engagement. Aurora is an independent K-8 school where teachers foster academic strength with a focus on social justice. Social-emotional learning is essential to our curriculum, with an emphasis on self-awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Our community of students, parents and staff practice empathy, kindness, and inclusivity, and move through the world with positive intention. We also feature multi-grade classrooms, where students in grades K/1, 2/3, 4/5 and middle school share learning spaces. Older students have the opportunity to mentor younger students, who become mentors themselves the next year. Students form friendships beyond their age group, and teachers support learning at all levels. Our optimal 1:8 teacher/student ratio ensures that every student is seen and celebrated. and we have one of the largest school libraries of any East Bay independent school. In addition to STEM and humanities, Aurora students take classes in art, music, Spanish, woodshop and physical education. All of this happens in the indoor and outdoor spaces of our charming, historic campus

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Aurora School

located in Upper Rockridge, off Highways 24 and 13. We also have a strong and supportive community of families with regular events to allow them to meet and connect. If you’d like to learn more about Aurora School and what we can offer your child, visit auroraschool.org or contact admissions@auroraschool.org to schedule an information session or campus tour. Aurora School features: • Social-emotional learning • Academic excellence with a focus on social justice • Multi-grade classrooms where students learn mentoring and empathy • Specialist classes including Art, Music, Spanish, Woodshop, Phys Ed and Library • Lovely, historic campus with large outdoor spaces in Upper Rockridge • Flexible tuition • A diverse and supportive community where everyone is celebrated for who they are Aurora School: Cultivating Confidence & Curiosity

40 Dulwich Road • Oakland • CA • 94618 • 510-428-2606 www.auroraschool.org

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Julia Morgan School for Girls

Julia Morgan School for Girls, the only all-girls middle school in the East Bay, is a progressive learning environment where students thrive both academically and socially as their authentic selves. Our rigorous academic curriculum is seamlessly interwoven with our vibrant community culture. When JMSG students graduate, they leave with ownership of their learning and are prepared to use their skills in a changing world. Our mission is to prepare our students to be the confident, capable, creative, and compassionate women of tomorrow. Research demonstrates that girls attending coeducational schools do not receive equal opportunities to excel academically and socially. According to the American Association of University Women, “Girls’ self-esteem and confidence...particularly with regard to math and science, drop precipitously during their middle school years, narrowing their later choices of course work and career path.” We are committed to creating a community that reflects the remarkable diversity of the East Bay. In addition, we aspire to serve as a resource on girls' education for public and independent school educators.

attention, cooperative learning, and the guidance of expert teachers. The faculty has developed a thoughtful curriculum with interdisciplinary projects. The relational model is core to what we do at JMSG, and we value cooperative learning, creative expression, and embracing challenges. Our goal is to provide educational opportunities and positive role models not fully afforded girls in coeducational institutions. We strive to create a learning community that supports academic excellence, critical thinking, positive risk taking, and the development of individual talents. Learning extends beyond the walls of the classroom into the community to foster compassion and social responsibility. We are dedicated to the intellectual, creative, social, and emotional growth of girls during their critical middle school years.

Julia Morgan School for Girls is committed to creating a challenging and inspiring academic program that encourages students to recognize and meet their potential through individualized

5000 MacArthur Blvd | Oakland, CA 94613 | 510-632-6000 www.juliamorganschool.org 78

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At Berean Christian High School, we support the efforts of the church and the family to develop lifetime followers of Jesus Christ. We accomplish this divine task by grounding everything we do—from our elite academics and athletics to our diverse selection of clubs and performing arts— within the framework of the Christian worldview. This perspective gives our students a successful high school experience that prepares them to answer God’s call throughout their lives. We are committed to advancing our mission by pursuing excellence in every aspect of our school’s extensive academic program. From a classroom lecture to the science lab and the whiteboard to the world online, a Berean Christian education can change the trajectory of young lives. Our teachers are our greatest asset. They are a “living curriculum” of competent, Christ-honoring people dedicated to developing the next generation of Christian leaders to engage the culture for Christ.

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Berean Christian High School

From the classroom to the chapel and then to the gym, theater, and council, students at Berean Christian enjoy the busy and dynamic student life that shapes their time here. You need to see it for yourself! We would love to show you around our campus and introduce you to some of the extraordinary people who make Berean Christian an excellent choice for a high school education. We look forward to meeting you and your family! Join us at a Open House: November 5 10am - 12pm

245 El Divisadero Avenue | Walnut Creek, CA 94598 | 925-945-6464 www.bereanchristian.com

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The Quarry Lane School

Founded in 1991, The Quarry Lane School is an independent, secular, college-preparatory school serving students from preschool through grade 12 across four campuses in the East Bay Tri-Valley. Quarry Lane has earned national recognition for its rigorous, accelerated curriculum—blending traditional and innovative teaching methods—and is consistently ranked among the top K-12 private schools in the nation. At Quarry Lane, we passionately believe in the importance of a solid academic foundation—one that inspires a lifelong love of learning and enables each student to discover their individual strengths and passion. The overarching goal of The Quarry Lane School is to provide students with every opportunity to obtain acceptance to the college of their choice. Graduates of The Quarry Lane School have been accepted at some of the top universities in the country, including: Harvard, MIT, Yale, Columbia, Stanford, Princeton, U.C. Berkeley, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, Dartmouth and more.

curiosity and love for learning, we take an interdisciplinary approach to our curriculum that focuses on experiential, real-world problem solving. The Quarry Lane School is accredited by WASC, NCPSA, and NIPSA and serves communities within Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the greater San Francisco East Bay Area. Quarry Lane is proud to be the only private school in the East Bay to offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Explore our programs at QuarryLane.org and join us for our Open House on November 5th and January 28th.

The faculty and staff at Quarry Lane work passionately to cultivate a learning environment that inspires critical thinking, creativity and collaboration. An excellent student-to-staff ratio ensures that teachers and administrators have the opportunity to accurately assess and meet each student’s individual needs. Our goal is to develop the child in a learning environment that promotes self-esteem, encourages a deeper level of learning, and allows students to thrive as confident, independent learners. In order to provide a meaningful education and inspire our students' natural

6363 Tassajara Road | Dublin, California 94568 | 925-829-8000 www.quarrylane.org 80

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Founded in 1983 and still unlike any other school in the country, The Crowden School provides an inspiring, whole-child education for students in grades 3–8. Crowden’s innovative approach to experiential and inquiry-based learning—rooted in the collaborative art of chamber music— empowers its students to find their individual voices as they grow into confident, empathetic, and curious leaders. Through the daily activity of playing music together, Crowden School students hone skills such as focused listening, teamwork, personal responsibility, perseverance, and empathy. These essential tools are further developed in the academic classrooms, where experienced and passionate teachers challenge students to build critical thinking skills, curiosity, self-confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Small class sizes and supportive student-teacher relationships allow each student to be recognized and appreciated as a unique individual, and to develop confidence in themselves and their abilities.

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The Crowden School

Sign up for an admissions event, open house, or school tour: crowden.org/visit Or contact Kirsten Shallenberg, Director of Admissions kshallenberg@crowden.org 510-559-6910 ex 122 crowden.org/admissions

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Every day at the Crowden School, joy in playing music together fuels our students’ passion to question, explore, create, and grow.

1475 Rose Street | Berkeley, CA 94702 | 510-559-6910 www.crowdenschool.org

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The Berkeley School

At The Berkeley School, children develop a foundation of connection, compassion, and the ability to be confident in the world. Students’ intellectual, social, and emotional growth are carefully nurtured at TBS, guided by our core value that what matters in education is what matters in life. Through a curriculum that is rooted in identity, justice, diversity, and action, The Berkeley School students deepen their understanding of real world problems as they build the academic skills to tackle them. Our culturally-responsive curriculum focuses on current events and key conflictresolution opportunities, empathy development practices, and student-led community campaigns. The Berkeley School supports students to become passionate, inquisitive scholars and healthy, compassionate citizens of their communities. By choosing TBS, families can be confident that their child will receive an engaging, well-rounded education that prepares them for a lifetime of learning and meaningful contributions to society.

Our Campuses K-8th Grade: 1310 University Avenue Berkeley, CA 94702 (510) 665-8800 Early Childhood Center: 2030 Francisco Street Berkeley, CA 94709 (510) 849-8340 Visit our website to register for a campus tour or to inquire about how The Berkeley School might be a great fit for your child! www.TheBerkeleySchool.org "Inspire curious minds, awaken generous hearts, engage a changing world."

K-8 1310 University Avenue • Berkeley • CA • 94702 • 510-665-8800 ECC 2030 Francisco Street • Berkeley • CA • 94702 • 510-849-8340 www.theberkeleyschool.org 82

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The Springstone School

Serving Neurodiverse Students in 6th through 12th Grade for Over 20 Years!

The Springstone School, a Nonpublic School (NPS), certified by the California Department of Education, serves neurodiverse students from across the Bay Area with Executive Function challenges that affect their ability to organize and prioritize information and to make meaningful social connections. Springstone offers a serene and calm learning environment, nestled along the Las Trampas creek in Lafayette. Springstone has two unique programs, a Middle School program serving grades sixth through eighth and a Community High School program serving grades ninth through twelfth. Springstone students are either placed privately or through their home school district with a referral and may be enrolled year-round. We believe our students will develop strategies for use in academic and social settings if they are part of a community that understands, accepts, and challenges them. Springstone students learn organizational and planning skills within the context of an academically rigorous middle school and high school curriculum that follows the framework of the California Common Core Standards. Small, self-contained, structured classrooms (eight students per class) allow for individualized

instruction, collaboration, discussion, and conversation within multiple modalities. We use a wide variety of materials including use of Chromebooks, textbooks, hands on learning, and online resources. Each classroom is fully equipped with Promethean Smart Boards integrated with Google Classroom. Springstone’s programs integrate pragmatic language, occupational therapy, mindfulness, organizational skills, work skills, and life skills in the academic classroom as well as in activities that take place in the community. Our programs aim to strengthen skills by emphasizing processes to improve production. We have a one of a kind ACCESS program bringing our students into the greater community for project based learning. We invite you to visit Springstone to learn more about our unique programs! We offer Group Tours for parents and advocates as well as Open Houses for families. Learn more about our programs and RSVP for one of our events by visiting us: www. thespringstoneschool.org

1035 Carol Lane | Lafayette, CA 94549 | 925-962-9660 www.thespringstoneschool.org

Guide to Private Schools

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Sterne School

Sterne School is a co-ed independent day school serving 4th-12th grade students Bay Area-wide. Sterne’s mission is to build on the foundation of individual strengths to discover and nurture each student’s version of greatness. Our Lower, Middle, and High School programs are designed as a seamless progression from foundational literacy and math skills to a comprehensive college preparatory program. With our small class sizes and integrated supports, every student can achieve academic success. In Lower and Middle School, skills-based class placement allows students to access grade level content, balancing integrated support and academic enrichment. Our standards-based academic program inspires critical thinking, collaboration, and the development of strong study and organizational skills. Abundant enrichment opportunities from experiential travel to community service foster meaningful social emotional learning and build community.

Located in the heart of San Francisco, our campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a new Performing Arts and Athletic center housing a digital film studio, a black box theater, a music practice and recording studio, and gymnasium. We provide competitive and recreational athletics offerings open to every grade and ability level, dozens of student clubs and affinity groups, national and international travel opportunities, electives, social events, and afterschool enrichment classes. All Sterne students have a wealth of opportunities to “start with strengths” and pursue their passions. To find out more or to arrange a vist please contact us at admissions@sterneschool.org

Sterne’s High School program provides students with a comprehensive and challenging college preparatory curriculum through instruction that is designed and led by expertly-trained faculty. Self-reflection, self-advocacy, and leadership opportunities are at the core of this program, as each student’s understanding of their own learning profiles fosters autonomy and critical thinking. Our college counseling team works with students and their families throughout high school so that our graduates find the best-fit schools. Sterne graduates pursue their passions as creators, leaders, problemsolvers, and thinkers.

838 Kearny Street | San Francisco, CA 94108 | 415-922-6081 www.sterneschool.org 84

Guide to Private Schools

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MEISA - Montessori

Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda

Montessori Elementary and Middle School Education Life-long learning for lifelong world changers Our cross-curricular Montessori program combines the essentials of mathematics, the sciences, expressive language, second language and accurate historical information with the arts and social justice. MEISA students explore universal values with global perspectives of justice and world changing global citizenship and empowerment. Lower and Upper Elementary classes have an emphasis on cultivating and contributing to community, using one's voice for change and, the importance of contributing locally and globally for a sustainable, equitable world. The beginning is now, the work is a partnership, the outcome is a confident student who loves learning and is empowered to see their ability to change the world.

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Take a virtual tour and see what we have done.

1400 Sixth St. Alameda, CA 94501 510-521-0595 x1 www.thechildunique.org

Join us!

TK - 6th Grade

The College Preparatory School

ollege Prep is a home for ideas, discovery, and engagement—intellectual pursuits that our students treasure. Our academic offerings for grades 9–12 are buoyed by our warm culture and welcoming, verdant campus located in Oakland's Rockridge neighborhood. Guided by inspiring teachers and mentors, they create a vibrant community that is rooted in shared values of kindness, respect, and a willingness to learn from the perspectives of others. We invite you to visit us and experience College Prep first-hand.

6100 Broadway Oakland, CA 94618 510-652-4364 www.college-prep.org

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Saint Philip Neri Catholic School

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Discover why families have been returning for generations: • Strong community • Rigorous academics • Learning platforms that emphasize independence, creativity, critical thinking, and problem solving • Faith-based character development • Low student-to-teacher ratio • Focus on social-emotional growth • Art, Spanish, Music, PE, and Garden enrichment classes • Student government, team sports, and activity clubs School Tours Available

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

INFORMATION NIGHTS • Nov 8, Jan 10 OPEN HOUSE • Jan 28 Please RSVP: www.spnalameda.org/admissions

The Renaissance International School Beyond the Expected

The Renaissance International School (TRIS) is a Montessori school in Oakland for students age two years old through middle school. Our faculty and student body are a diverse, international community representing numerous countries, ethnic groups, and religions. We teach students to be independent thinkers who conduct their own research, and are proficient communicators. There are many ways that each student learns best, and we are flexible and creative in addressing students’ individual learning styles.

3650 Dimond Ave, Oakland 510-531-8566 www.therenaissanceschool.org 86

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In addition to the full substance of a traditional curriculum, our program includes exceptional visual arts and music programs, outdoor education, and international travel. In our language immersion program students become fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English, French, and Spanish under the guidance of native speakers.

At Redwood Day, everything we do is designed to keep every child engaged and growing. Academically, that means a world-class curriculum, the best teachers, and a focus on the individual student. Our teachers are at the forefront of cutting edge educational practices. They connect our curriculum to each child, helping students gain the skills they need to reach for the next academic challenge. Socially and emotionally, we teach students to work through challenges, respect each other’s differences, and honor their diverse community. We provide students with tools to solve conflicts, take risks, make ethical decisions, and lead with courage and integrity. As a diverse community, we find great strength in multiple perspectives and embrace every opportunity to weave diversity in thought and action into our social, emotional, and academic lives.

3245 Sheffield Ave. Oakland, CA 94602 510.534.0800 rdschool.org

Since 1963, Redwood Day has been committed to shaping the lives of young people in Oakland and its surrounding communities. Today, our K-8 program includes close to 400 students all learning together on our 4-acre campus in the heart of Oakland.

St. Paul's Episcopal School

116 Montecito Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 Admissions Office 510-285-9617 www.spes.org

St. Paul’s is an independent K-8 day school located steps north of Lake Merritt that welcomes families of all faiths. Our philosophy: 1. Support fearless learning. We create a trusting classroom community where students can approach our challenging curriculum with confidence and courage. 2. Community Engaged Learning is powerful.We are deeply connected to the community around us. Through service learning projects, community partnerships, science curriculum centered on Lake Merritt, and more, St. Paul’s students apply what they learn in real contexts and for real audiences. 3. Deeper learning can be achieved by harnessing the power of diversity. St. Paul’s is one of the most racially and socioeconomically diverse independent schools in the nation. Students develop a positive sense of identity, knowledge of those who have worked for equity, and a commitment to stand up for inclusion. Our students graduate with skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose, prepared to be active citizens of the world. Guide to Private Schools

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Redwood Day

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Valley Montessori School

alley Montessori School is the largest notfor-profit, and only triple accredited school in California. Established in Livermore in 1976, it is a nationally recognized, model Montessori school for children 18 months through 8th grade. Accreditations include: the American Montessori Society (AMS), the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). VMS is a certified California Green Business making it one of only two schools in the Tri-Valley with this distinguished honor. The six acre hilltop campus boasts an Edible Schoolyard, complete with a vegetable garden, sustainable chicken coop and fruit orchard providing endless practical life opportunities, plus snacks for the classrooms. Montessori education and experiences open the world to children developing engaged, responsible, respectful and empowered citizens with an appreciation that learning is for life.

1273 N. Livermore Avenue Livermore, CA 94551 925-455-8021 www.vmschool.org

The Saklan School

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1678 School St. Moraga, CA 94556 925-376-7900 www.saklan.org 88

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The Saklan School challenges students to think creatively, act compassionately and live courageously. By integrating project-based, experiential learning with academic rigor, Saklan creates an engaging learning environment for preschool through 8th grade students. Strong connections with teachers ignite students' passion for learning and develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. With our intentional social-emotional program, students are comfortable collaborating, taking risks, and thinking outside the box. Our music, visual and performing arts, PE, and Spanish programs are an integral part of the daily schedule and interwoven with the classroom curriculum. Our graduates are very well prepared academically for high school and thrive in any setting they choose. They are known to be engaged, kind, creative, and valuable members of their communities. Come visit us and discover the power of a Saklan education.

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Contra Costa Christian Schools For 45 years, Contra Costa Christian Schools has maintained its original mission to Prepare the Next Generation with Christian values and a quality academic foundation. We provide preschool through high school education utilizing small class sizes and whole child education. Our teachers are committed to providing a learning environment for students to achieve their highest potential. There is no restriction on the number of AP classes our high school students can take and we offer a vast selection of electives for our middle and high school programs. Year-round Sports • Intersession • K-12 Music including Band & Choir • K-12 Art including Digital Art & Ceramics • Physical Education • STEAM Electives • Cheerleading • Drama Program

2721 Larkey Lane Walnut Creek, CA 94597 925-934-4964 www.contracostachristianschools.org

While the instructional strategies and curriculum have evolved since our founding in 1978, the core focus of serving families in the East Bay remains the same. Contra Costa Christian Schools provides a high quality Christian education that equips students for success in whatever field of study or career they choose to pursue.

The Seven Hills School Serving preschool through 8th grade in the East Bay since 1962

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975 North San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94598 925-933-0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org

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 Reggio-inspired Preschool and developmental Kindergarten, to our adventurous Lower School classes and handson 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!

Guide to Private Schools

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Challenger School

ince 1963, Challenger School has helped children excel by employing proven, effective methods in a fun and structured environment that inspires them to achieve. The Challenger difference is evident from the moment you set foot on campus. Students bubble with enthusiasm as they make connections between their prior knowledge and new concepts. In order to facilitate setting crucial learning patterns, Challenger accepts students as young as 2 years, 9 months. Yet in all grades, the school’s acclaimed, intellectually stimulating programs establish a foundation of achievement with clear results. On national standardized tests, Challenger K-8 students consistently average well above the 90th percentile. Come for a tour! Find a campus near you at ChallengerSchool.com

10 Bay Area Locations www.ChallengerSchool.com

Tilden Preparatory School Tilden Prep is a WASC-accredited collegepreparatory school for grades 6-12 that teaches UC approved courses one-to-one and in small groups, in person and online. This allows us to individualize the pace and teaching method to address a wide range of educational, social and emotional needs. "...Some kids simply need one-on-one instruction to learn...Tilden has the academic curriculum both for the students who are struggling or are looking for something far more challenging than public schools offer." - Tilden Parent

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

Guide to Private Schools

Call us at 510.525.5506 (Albany) or 925.933.5506 (Walnut Creek) to learn more about our full-time, part-time, and tutoring programs and how we can help your student boost their self-confidence and excel in school and beyond!

When you inspire a lifetime love of learning, the extraordinary happens.

Multiple Locations Throughout the Bay Area www.stratfordschools.com

At Stratford, high expectations yield extraordinary results. We start early with an intentionally balanced curriculum that challenges students and accelerates achievement. Our ever-evolving, STEAM-based (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!

Orinda Academy

19 Altarinda Road Orinda, CA 94563 925-254-7553 www.orindaacademy.org

At Orinda Academy, we understand that each student learns differently and faces distinct challenges. With small class sizes and a dedicated team of educators, we provide personalized attention that fosters academic growth and emotional well-being for our students in grades 8-12. Our curriculum is designed to engage students through interactive learning experiences, nurturing their curiosity and passion for knowledge. By fostering strong studentteacher relationships, we create a supportive atmosphere where students feel valued and empowered to overcome obstacles. We not only address academic gaps, but also provide comprehensive support services that bolster confidence and self-esteem. At Orinda Academy, students can thrive, rediscover their potential, and lay the foundation for a successful future.

Guide to Private Schools

SCHOOL PROFILES

Discover Stratford School

SCHOOL PROFILES

Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley OUR MISSION Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley nurtures creative, multilingual learners, equipped to confidently embrace the delights and challenges of an interconnected world. OUR VISION We are a force for good in the world, preparing our graduates to positively impact their diverse communities, and the local and international spaces in which we all belong. WE BELIEVE THAT WHEN STUDENTS SEE THE WORLD WITHOUT BORDERS OR BARRIERS, THEY CAN CONFIDENTLY AND CAPABLY SEIZE ANY OPPORTUNITY. Children with no prior French knowledge can enter Ecole Bilingue in • Preschool (2 to 4 years old) • TK and Kindergarten (4.9 and 5 years old)

1009 Heinz Ave. Berkeley, CA 94710 510-809-0641 www.eb.org/visit

• Grades 1 and 2 Accelerated French Program. • Grade 6: International Middle School Program.

Bilingual French and English students can enter at any Grade level.

Saint Mary's College High School Saint Mary’s is a Lasallian Catholic college preparatory high school located in North Berkeley, and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association. Saint Mary’s was founded in 1863, and has been serving students in the Bay Area for 160 years. Under the tradition of the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Saint Mary’s offers a distinctive college-preparatory educational program to students from all social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. Saint Mary’s is committed to enhancing student achievement by adopting policies and programs grounded in educational research.

1294 Albina Ave Berkeley, CA 94706 510-526-9242 www.saintmaryschs.org 92

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SCHOOL PROFILES

Mills College Children's School at Northeastern University Our laboratory school offers: — HIGHLY-QUALIFIED HEAD TEACHERS — SOCIAL EMOTIONAL PRACTICES supporting a sense of belonging and emotional safety for all children — INTEGRATED UNITS OF STUDY that provide experiential learning opportunities, connecting language arts, service learning, design thinking, science, and social studies with an embedded social justice component focused on "changemakers" and the development of a sense of agency and an Antiracist stance.

5000 Macarthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94613 510-430-2118 www.millscollegechildrensschool.org/

— SPECIALIST CLASSES including Visual Arts, Spanish/Music, and Physical Education that round out our dynamic curriculum.

Shu Ren International School Preschool - Middle School Shu Ren International School derived its name from the Chinese proverb, "十年树木,百年树人": It will take 10 years to grow a tree, but a lifetime to cultivate a person’s potential.” Combining Chinese Mandarin immersion education and the highly regarded International Baccalaureate (IB) World School’s IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for children, preschool through middle school, Shu Ren provides an enriching and engaging environment that centers on three critical components: Inquiry-based learning; multilingual and multicultural education; and development of the whole child. Guided by native Chinese educators, students discover their strengths, explore new concepts, and develop strong academic skills. At Shu Ren, students excel as academic achievers in a complex, rich world of international culture and communication. Now accepting applications for Preschool through 2125 Jefferson Ave | Berkeley • 510-841-8899 Middle School. 1422 San Pablo Ave | Berkeley • 510-833-7789 Learn more or schedule a tour at 540 Sands Dr, Bldg B | San Jose • 408-508-6259 www.shurenschool.com www.shurenschool.com Guide to Private Schools

SCHOOL PROFILES

KSS Immersion Schools

Spanish Immersion from Preschool - Kindergarten Kids Speaking Spanish (KSS) offers full-time Spanish immersion programs for children, ages two through six years. For more than 20 years, our responsive learning environment supports language immersion, encourages self-direction, empowers children to conquer challenges with creative solutions, and strengthens critical thinking skills and social connections. KSS provides an immersive environment where children learn Spanish naturally. By integrating Spanish language instruction with daily activities and play, children learn Spanish in a way that is both enjoyable and effective. Students flourish under the care of KSS’s highly-experienced maestras(os) from Spanish-speaking countries. Their guidance nurtures the vital foundation children need to develop lifelong skills with resilience and determination, and to grow into confident, compassionate leaders, and forward-thinking individuals capable of shaping the world of tomorrow. As student’s progress through their classes, they are well-prepared for kindergarten and empowered to be Albany • Oakland • San Jose • Walnut Creek unique, confident individuals. Give your child the gift of multilingualism by calling 877-442-2555 to apply or schedule 877-442-2555 a tour. Visit our website at ksspreschool.com www.ksspreschool.com

Acton Academy East Bay At Acton, we believe every child who walks into our school is a genius with the potential to change the world. We believe students should be in control of their learning and advancement, in a community that closely resembles the real world. We believe students can, and should, teach one another and work collaboratively to grow. We use the latest in educational technology for selfpaced mastery of reading, writing and math skills. Our self-paced learning environment fosters responsibility, goal-setting, and teamwork. Deep Socratic discussions take place about heroes, history and self governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write and speak.

3110 Constitution Drive Livermore, CA 94551 925-264-9477 www.actoneastbay.org 94

Guide to Private Schools

Hands-on project based Quests are used to master the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world. The children create and market a business to the community each year. Volunteerism is a critical component to weekly activities. Children are encouraged to spend time outdoors cultivating the organic garden and playing with friends in the playground. We strongly believe that children should enjoy learning art and music which is why we incorporate these subjects weekly. Acton students are empowered to thrive in a world that needs independent, motivated thinkers and learners.

ayhill High School’s unique approach, individualized instruction and specialized services build the skills and confidence students need to become successful lifelong learners. Multimodal teaching techniques and built-in accommodations make our rich curriculum accessible to students with learning differences and students who flourish in a small caring community. Our highly experienced teachers focus on each student’s individual learning style with the goal of maximizing their inherent strengths and their potential to succeed. At Bayhill, we make sure that students with learning differences thrive.

1940 Virginia St Berkeley, CA 94709 510-984-0599 www.bayhillhs.org

Visit us today and see what Bayhill is all about. We offer each family an individualized meeting with the director of admissions, focusing on your child and how our school can empower them to thrive in high school and beyond.

School of the Madeleine The School of the Madeleine is a vibrant, inclusive, K-8 Catholic school in Berkeley. We are dedicated to the education of the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Our leadership is committed to academic excellence, spiritual development, and social justice. We believe that every student is exceptional, and in the tradition of Catholic education, our mission is to help them become lifelong learners and compassionate citizens who care for one another. We welcome every family with open arms and invite you to learn more about our community. School Motto: "Let's Be Good To One Another and...Pass It On! 1225 Milvia Street Berkeley, CA 94709 510-526-4744 www.themadeleine.com

Come see what we are all about! www.themadeleine.com

Guide to Private Schools

SCHOOL PROFILES

Bayhill High School

SCHOOL PROFILES

Walden Center and School Walden Center & School is a place where children’s learning is at the center of all we do. A Walden education is as unique as your child.

Here you’ll find child-centered K-6 education at its best. Our approach to teaching makes learning a multisensory, joyful, and lasting experience. We cultivate a diverse community of learners, families, and teachers to create a secure and textured learning environment. Walden students love to go to school every day. Tours and information sessions provide an opportunity to see education at Walden in action and meet the Walden faculty plus, A video tour of our faculty and students during an active school day is also available. 2446 Mckinley Avenue Berkeley, CA 94703 510-841-7248 waldencenterschool.org

For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact us - admissions@waldencenterschool.org or (510) 841-7248.

Step One School

ince 1981, Step One School has been a leader in Early Childhood Education in the Bay Area.

Step One adheres to a play-based, developmental philosophy, and provides structure and routine throughout the day. Children are able to make choices within the activities offered to them. Inclusion and diversity are a large part of the curriculum at Step One, with the belief that early childhood is an ideal time for children to experience diversity. The vibrant community of Step One provides the healthy foundation children need to reach their full potential as learners and human beings.

499 Spruce St. Berkeley, CA 94708 510-527-9021 www.steponeschool.org 96

Guide to Private Schools

Step One has designed two distinct programs to help children at each stage of their development: • 2-Year Old Program • Preschool Program

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FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

The Child Unique Montessori School Encinal Campus

PK-1 All Gender 6:1 30

Independent Mandarin and Arts Program

$622 - $1,933 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

The Child Unique Montessori School Pacific Campus

18mos - 3yrs All Gender 4:1 and 5:1 20

Independent

$622 - $1,933 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

The Child Unique Montessori School Taylor Campus

PK-1 All Gender 6:1 44

Independent Spanish and Mandarin

$622 - $1,933 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

Coastline Christian Schools

K-8 All Gender 8:1 315

Christian Mandarin

$12,900 - $14,000 FA Available

WASC, ACSI

Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda

PK-8 All Gender 6:1 25

Independent Spanish with a strong emphasis in the arts

$1,625-$1,933 FA Available

AMS, IMC, CQEL, NAEYC

St. Philip Neri Catholic School

PS-8 All Gender Average 15:1 260

Catholic

$9,080 - $10,360

WASC, WCEA

6-12 All Gender 1:1 100

Independent Regular/Honors/AP courses in all high school subjects

The Berkeley School (K-8 Campus)

K-8 All Gender 10:1 150

Independent Spanish

$33,900 - $36,250 FA Available

CAIS

Bayhill High School

9-12 All Gender 7:1 71

Independent English, Spanish, ASL

$43,800 FA Available

WASC, Certified NPS, UC Approved

The Crowden School

3-8 All Gender 4:1 52

Independent English French (6-8)

Grades 3-5: $31,330 Grades 6-8: $33,990 FA Available

ISSFBA

Alameda 2226 Encinal Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 www.thechildunique.org p. 85

2212 Pacific Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 www.thechildunique.org p. 85

1400 Sixth St. Alameda • 510-521-0595 www.thechildunique.org p. 85

1801 North Loop Road Alameda • 510-522-0200 www.coastlinechristian.org p. 29, 75

1400 Sixth St. Alameda • 510-521-0595 www.montessorielementaryalameda.org p. 85 1335 High St. Alameda • 510-521-0787 www.spnalameda.org p. 86

Albany Tilden Preparatory School 1231 Solano Ave. Albany • 510-525-5506 www.tildenprep.com p. 90

WASC, UC Regents Approved, NCAA Approved

Berkeley 1310 University Ave Berkeley • 510-665-8800 www.theberkeleyschool.org p. 41, 82 1940 Virginia St Berkeley • 510-984-0599 www.bayhillhs.org p. 60, 95 1475 Rose St. Berkeley • 510-559-6910 www.crowdenschool.org p. 39, 81

Parents’ Press | Guide to Private Schools

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley

PS-8 All Gender 16:1 415

Independent French, Spanish, Mandarin

$33,665 - $38,405

AEFE (French Ministry of Education), CAIS, NAIS,

Maybeck High School

9-12 All Gender 5:1 115

Independent Spanish, French

$44,200 FA Available

POCIS , WASC, ISSFBA

Saint Mary’s College High School

9-12 All Gender 16:1 630

Catholic Spanish, French

$22,350 FA Available

WCEA, WASC

School of the Madeleine

K-8 Co-Ed 10:1 260

Catholic English, Spanish

$12,200 - $13,700 FA Available

NCEA, WCEA, WASC

Shu Ren International School - Berkeley Campus

PK-8 All Gender PK2 6:1 PK3, K4 8:1 K-5: 11:1 140

Independent Mandarin Immersion, Spanish Instruction

PK $26,950 K $27,950 G1-G8 $29,250 FA Available

IB World School WASC, NAIS

Shu Ren International School - Berkeley Campus

PK-8 All Gender PK2 6:1 PK3, K4 8:1 K-5: 11:1 140

Independent Mandarin Immersion, Spanish Instruction

PK $26,950 K $27,950 G1-G8 $29,250 FA Available

IB World School WASC, NAIS

Step One School

PK-K All Gender Varies 115

Independent

$19,000 - $35,000 FA Available

Walden Center and School

TK-Grade 6 All Gender 14:1 72

Independent Spanish, ASL

$22,393 FA Available

ISSFBA, BADA

TK-12 All Gender 15:1 700

Christian Spanish, Mandarin

$13,000 - $16,000 FA Available

WASC, ACSI

Orion Academy

8-12 All Gender 8:1 64

Independent Special Needs Latin

$44,900 - $51,400 FA Available

WASC

Queen of All Saints School

K-8 All Gender 16:1

Catholic

Call

WASC, WCEA

1009 Heinz Ave. Berkeley • 510-809-0641 www.eb.org p. 92

2727 College Ave. Berkeley • 510-841-8489 www.maybeckhs.org p. 15, 70 1294 Albina Ave Berkeley • 510-526-9242 www.saintmaryschs.org p. 92

1225 Milvia St Berkeley • 510-526-4744 www.themadeleine.com p. 60, 95

2125 Jefferson Ave. Berkeley • 510-841-8899 www.shurenschool.com p. 53, 93

1422 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley • 510-833-7789 www.shurenschool.com p. 53, 93

499 Spruce St. Berkeley • 510-527-9021 www.steponeschool.org p. 96 2446 Mckinley Ave Berkeley • 510-841-7248 https://waldencenterschool.org p. 36, 96

Castro Valley Redwood Christian Schools Castro Valley • San Lorenzo 510-889-7526 www.rcs.edu p. 27, 74

Concord 1868 Clayton Rd. Concord • 925-377-0789 www.orionacademy.org 2391 Grant St. Concord • 925-685-8700 www.qasconcord.org

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Guide to Private Schools | Parents’ Press

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

6-12 All Gender 9:1 536

Independent French, Spanish, Chinese

$0-53,000 for day students $0-83,000 for boarding students

CAIS, NAIS, WASC

Quarry Lane School

PS-12 All Gender 7:1 950

Independent Spanish, Mandarin

$23,000-$46,000

WASC, NCPSA, NIPSA

Stratford School

2.5 yrs-G5 All Gender 12:1 (PS) 15:1 (K) 22:1 (1-5)

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

East Bay Montessori

TK-8 All Gender 12:1 110

Non Denominational Spanish

$27,900-$31,500 FA Available

AMS, ISSFBA, NAIS, POCIS

Prospect Sierra School

TK-8 All Gender 9:1 470

Independent Spanish

TK: $26,140 ES: $32,360 MS: $36,665 FA Available

CAIS, NAIS, POCIS, Green Ribbon School, Ashoka Changemaker School

St. John the Baptist School

K-8 All Gender 21:1

Catholic

Call

WASC

K-8 All Gender 16:1 285

Christian

$7,800

ACSI, WASC

East Bay German International School

PS-12 All Gender 7:1 220

Independent German, Spanish, French

$24,000-$30,000 FA Available

IB World School, WASC, PASCH, WDA

Escuela Bilingüe Internacional

PK-8 All Gender PK 8:1 K-3 11:1 4-8 16:1 351

Nondenominational Spanish Immersion, Mandarin Instruction

PK $30,650 K-5 $35,495 6-8 $38,050 FA Available

NAIS, CAIS, WASC, IBO, Green Business

Danville Athenian School

2100 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Danville • 925-837-5375 www.athenian.org p.7, 65

Dublin 6363 Tassajara Rd. Dublin • 925-829-8000 www.QuarryLane.org p. 45, 80 6665 Amador Plaza Road Dublin • 925-399-1971 www.stratforddublin.com p. 2, 91

El Cerrito 7075 Cutting Blvd. El Cerrito • 510-236-8802 www.eastbaymontessori.org 960 Avis Drive 2060 Tapscott Ave. El Cerrito • 510-809-9000 www.prospectsierra.org p. 3, 62

11156 San Pablo Ave. El Cerrito • 510-234-2244 www.stjohnec.org

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

Emeryville 1070 41st St. Emeryville • 510-380-0302 www.ebgis.org/ p. 13, 68

Grades 2-8 4550 San Pablo Ave. • Emeryville PK - Grade 1 - See Oakland 510-652-7094 www.ebi.school p. 21, 72

100

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Holy Spirit School

PK-8 All Gender 18:1 270

Catholic Spanish

$8,775 FA Available

WCEA

Ilm Academy

K-10 All Gender 22:1 160

Islamic Spanish

$450 - $550

New Horizons School

PK-8 All Gender 20:1 250

Stratford School

2.5 yrs-G8 All Gender 12:1 (PS) 15:1 (K) 22:1 (1-8)

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

Stratford School

2.5 yrs-K All Gender 12:1 (PS) 15:1 (K)

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

All Saints Catholic School

K-8 All Gender

Catholic

California Crosspoint Academy

PS-12 All Gender 11:1 558

Christian Mandarin, Spanish

HS $18,700 MS $16,450 ES $14,500 FA Available

WASC, ACSI, CAIS, Cognia

Moreau Catholic High School

9-12 All Gender 13:1 800

Catholic Mandarin, Spanish, French

$23,390

WCEA, WASC

St. Bede School

K-8 All Gender

Catholic

Call

St. Clement Catholic School

TK-8 All Gender 17:1 290

Catholic Spanish

Call

K-12 Oakland: K-8 All Gender 8:1 650

Independent English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin

K-5: $36,720 6-8: $40,120 9-12: $52,950 FA Available

Fremont 3930 Parish Ave. Fremont • 510-793-3553

42412 Albrae St. Fremont • 510-936-1572

2550 Peralta Blvd. Fremont • 510-791-5683

43077 Osgood Rd. Fremont • 510-438-9745 www.stratfordfremontosgood.com p. 2, 91

38495 Fremont Bl. Fremont • 510-713-8900 www.stratfordfremontblvd.com p. 2, 91

Call

Hayward 22870 Second St. Hayward • 510-582-1910 www.allsaintshayward.org/school 25500 Industrial Blvd Hayward • 510-995-5333 www.crosspointacademy.org p. 19, 73 27170 Mission Blvd. Hayward • 510-881-4320 www.moreaucatholic.org p. 35, 76 26910 Patrick Ave. Hayward • 510-782-3444 www.mystbede.org 790 Calhoun St. Hayward • 510-538-5885 www.sclementschool.org

Call

WASC

FA Available WASC

Lafayette Bentley School

1000 Upper Happy Valley Road Lafayette • 925-283-2101 www.bentleyschool.org p. 17, 66

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CAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

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FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

The Springstone School

6-12 All Gender 8:1 56

Independent

$30,000

Certified by CDE

St. Perpetua Catholic School

TK-8 All Gender 16:1

Catholic

$7,800 up to 50%

WCEA, WASC

Acton Academy East Bay

K-12 All Gender 12:1 50

Independent Languages Vary

Varies by Program FA Available

IALDS WASC

St. Michael School

K-8 All Gender 26:1

Catholic

Valley Montessori School

ToddlerGrade 8 All Gender G1-8 12:1 400

Independent Montessori Curriculum Spanish

$6,000 - $22,000 FA Available

AMS, CAIS, WASC, CA Green Business Cert.

PS-8 All Gender 10:1 140

Independent Spanish

$18,300- $35,300 FA Available

NAIS, CAIS, WASC

Challenger School - Ardenwood

PS-8 Co-ed

Independent

$5,300 - $25,430

Challenger School

PS-K Co-ed

Independent

$5,300 - $22,990

Aurora School

K-8 All Gender 6:1 100

Independent English, Spanish

K-5: $6,602 - $33,010 6-8: $7,304 - $36,520 Flexible Tuition Available

NAIS, POCIS

Bentley School

K-12 Lafayette: 9-12 All Gender 8:1 650

Independent English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin

K-5: $36,720 6-8: $40,120 9-12: $52,950 FA Available

CAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

1035 Carol Lane Lafayette • 925-962-9660 www.thespringstoneschool.org p. 42, 83 3445 Hamlin Road Lafayette • 925-284-1640 www.stperpetua.org

Livermore 3110 Constitution Dr. Livermore • 925-264-9477 www.actoneastbay.org p. 59, 94 345 Church St. Livermore • 925-447-1888 www.smsliv.org 1273 N Livermore Ave. Livermore • 925-455-8021 www.vmschool.org p. 88

Call

Moraga The Saklan School

1678 School St. Moraga • 925-376-7900 www.saklan.org p. 88

Newark 35487 Dumbarton Court Newark • 510-739-0300 www.challengerschool.com/campus/ california/newark/ardenwood p. 51, 90 39600 Cedar Blvd. Newark • 510-770-1771 www.challengerschool.com/campus/ california/newark p. 51, 90

Oakland 40 Dulwich Road Oakland • 510-428-2606 www.auroraschool.org p. 31, 77 1 Hiller Dr. Oakland • 510-843-2512 www.bentleyschool.org p. 17, 66

102

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

College Preparatory School

9-12 All Gender 9:1 370

Independent English, Mandarin, Spanish, Latin

$54,980 FA Available

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

Escuela Bilingüe Internacional

PK-8 All Gender PK 8:1 K-3 11:1 4-8 16:1 351

Independent Spanish Immersion, Mandarin Instruction

PK $30,650 K-5 $35,495 6-8 $38,050 FA Available

NAIS, CAIS, WASC, IBO, Green Business

Head-Royce School

K-12 All Gender 8:1 900

Independent Chinese, French Latin, Spanish

$37,800 $54,000

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA, BADA

Holy Names High School

9-12 Girls Only 7.5:1 150

Catholic French, Spanish, ASL

$21,600 FA Available

NCGS, WCEA

Julia Morgan School for Girls

6-8 Girls Only 8:1 132

Independent Spanish

$38,000 FA Available

CAIS, NAIS, ABC POCIS, ICGS

KSS Immersion School

PK2-K All Gender 6:1

Spanish Immersion Inquiry-based curriculum Before and after school care

PK $22,950 K $24,950 Tuition Assistance

Mills College Children’s School at Northeastern University

Toddler-5th grade All Gender 20:1 112

Independent

K-5: $23,421 FA Available

Pacific Boychoir Academy

3-8 grade Boys Only 5:1 20

Independent, Music, Choir, and Spanish

ES: $20,850 MS: $28,500 FA Available

Park Day School

K-8 All Gender 8:1 325

Independent English, Spanish, Mandarin Language after school

K-5 $34,780 G6-G8 $35,480 FA Available

CAIS, AISAP, POCIS, ISBOA ISSFBA, NAIS NBOA, PEN

Redwood Day

K-8 All Gender 8:1 ≈400

Independent Spanish, Mandarin

K-5 $33,700 G6-G8 $37,770 Inclusive Tuition Model / TA Available

CAIS, WASC, NAIS, POCIS

The Renaissance International School

2 yr - MS All Gender 8:1 90

Montessori, Independent

$29,900 - $38,900 FA Available

AMI, IMC, ISSFBA

6100 Broadway Oakland • 510-652-4364 www.college-prep.org p. 85 PK - Grade 1 410 Alcatraz Ave. • Oakland Grades 2-8 - See Emeryville 510-653-3324 www.ebi.school p. 21, 72

4315 Lincoln Ave. Oakland • 510-531-1300 www.headroyce.org p. 25, 71 4660 Harbord Dr. Oakland • 510-450-1110 www.hnhsoakland.org Back Cover, p. 69 5000 MacArthur Blvd. Oakland • 510-632-6000 www.juliamorganschool.org p. 33, 78 2540 Charleston St Oakland • 877-442-2555 www.ksspreschool.com p. 55, 94

5000 Macarthur Blvd. Oakland • 510-430-2118 www.millscollegechildrensschool.org/ p.49, 93 215 Ridgeway Ave. Oakland • 510-652-4722 www.pacificboychoir.org

360 42nd St. Oakland • 510-653-0317 www.parkdayschool.org p. 9, 63 3245 Sheffield Ave. Oakland • 510-534-0800 rdschool.org p. 47, 87 3650 Dimond Ave. Oakland • 510-531-8566 www.therenaissanceschool.org p. 59, 86

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FA Available

Music, Art, Language Immersion Spanish, French

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103

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

St. Paul’s Episcopal School

K-8 All Gender 9:1 370

Independent Episcopal (non religious) Spanish

K-5 $33,960 G6-G8 $38,700 FA Available

NAIS, CAIS, WASC, POCIS

St. Theresa School

TK-8th All Gender 12:1 200

Independent Catholic Spanish

$11,287 - $13,798 FA Available

WCEA, WASC

8-12 All Gender 7:1 50

Independent Spanish, ASL

Grade 8: $34,500 Grades 9-12: $48,992 FA Available

WASC, NAIS, CAIS, POCIS

K-8 All Gender 15:1 229

Catholic Spanish

$9,929 - $10,895 FA Available

WASC, WCEA

PS, TK-8 All Gender 18:1 350

Catholic

$9,366 TA Range: $500 $2500

WASC, WCEA

Stratford School

2.5 yrs-G5 All Gender 12:1 (PS) 15:1 (K) 22:1 (1-5)

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

Stratford School

Grades 6-8 All Gender 22:1 (6-8)

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by program

WASC, CPSTEME

9-12 All Gender 15:1 425

Catholic French, Spanish

$20,400 FA & Scholarships Available - Call for info

WASC, WCEA

TK-12 All Gender 15:1 700

Christian Spanish, Mandarin

$13,000 - $16,000 FA Available

WASC, ACSI

116 Montecito Ave. Oakland • 510-285-9617 www.spes.org p. 53, 87

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

Orinda Orinda Academy

19 Altarinda Rd. Orinda • 925-254-7553 www.orindaacademy.org p. 49, 91

Piedmont Corpus Christi School

1 Estates Drive Piedmont • 510-530-4056 www.corpuschristischool.com p. 47

Pinole St. Joseph School

1961 Plum St. Pinole • 510-724-0242 www.stjosephpinole.org

Pleasanton 4576 Willow Road Pleasanton • 925-737-0001 www.stratfordpleasanton.com p. 2, 91

3800 Stoneridge Drive Pleasanton • 925-621-8908 www.stratfordpleasantonms.com p. 2, 91

Richmond Salesian College Preparatory 2851 Salesian Ave. Richmond • 510-234-4433 www.salesian.com p. 11, 67

San Lorenzo Redwood Christian Schools Castro Valley • San Lorenzo 510-889-7526 www.rcs.edu p. 27, 74

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Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Berean Christian High School

9-12 All Gender 12:1 385

Baptist English, Spanish, ASL

$13,475 FA Available

WASC, ACSI, CollegeBoard

Contra Costa Christian Schools

PS-12 All Gender 13:1 400

Independent Spanish, Latin

$9,400- $12,900 FA Available

ACSI, Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce

Seven Hills School

PS-8 All Gender 8:1 424

Independent Spanish, French

$21,700 - $36,750

CAIS, NAIS, WASC, ISSFBA

Tilden Preparatory School

6-12 All Gender 100

Independent Regular/Honors/AP courses in all high school subjects

Academy of Thought and Industry

6-8 All Gender 9:1 35

Independent Upon Request

$42,750 all-inclusive FA Available

Cognia™, WASC

Academy of Thought and Industry

9-12 All Gender 9:1 60

Independent Upon Request

$41,300 all-inclusive FA Available

Cognia™, WASC

Alta Vista School

JK-8 All Gender 9:1 320

Independent Spanish

$39,999 FA Available

Cathedral School for Boys

K-8 Boys Only 7:1 265

Episcopal

$0 - $40,500 FA Available

CAIS, NAES, NAIS

Convent & Stuart Hall, Schools of the Sacred Heart San Francisco

K-12 Single-sex and all gender 16:1 1,180

Independent Spanish, Mandarin, French, Latin

$37,840–$52,270 FA Available

CAIS, CSEE, IB, IBSC, NAIS, NCEA, POCIS, SHCOG, WASC, WCEA

French American International School

K-12 All Gender 958

Non Denominational French

Please Call

WASC

Walnut Creek 245 El Divisadero Avenue Walnut Creek • 925-945-6464 www.bereanchristian.com p. 37, 79 2721 Larkey Lane Walnut Creek • 925-934-4964 contracostachristianschools.org p. 55, 89 975 N. San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek • 925-933-0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org p. 51, 89 1475 N. Broadway Walnut Creek • 925-933-5506 www.tildenprep.com p. 90

WASC, UC Regents Approved, NCAA Approved

San Francisco Private Schools 3741 Buchanan St San Francisco • 415-429-2008 www.thoughtandindustry.com/schools/ fort-mason 2690 Jackson St San Francisco • 415-683-5459 www.thoughtandindustry.com/schools/sanfrancisco 450 Somerset St. San Francisco • 415-467-3700 www.altavistaschool.org 1275 Sacramento St San Francisco • 415-771-6600 www.cathedralschool.net

2222 Broadway St and 1715 Octavia St San Francisco • (415) 563-2900 www.sacredsf.org

150 Oak Street San Francisco • 415-558-2022 www.frenchamericansf.org

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105

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

FEATURED SCHOOL LISTINGS

Featured Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Enrollment

Affiliation / Notes Languages

Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Guidepost Montessori Fort Mason

PK-8 All Gender 10:1 57

Non Denominational

$29,300 - $42,750 FA Available

Cognia™, WASC

KFS School

K-8 All Gender 4:1 10

Independent Year Round Flexible seating and movement desks.

$45,000 Year round school

WASC Accreditation in Process

Live Oak School

K-8 All Gender 5:1 420

Non Denominational Spanish

$500 - $40,075 FA Available

CAIS

Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory

9-12 All Gender 13:1 1,400

Catholic Spanish French, Japanese, Mandarin, ASL

$24,500 Tuition, $1,500 Reg. Fees $6.4M in FA.

WASC, WCEA

San Francisco Waldorf School

PK-12 All Gender 8:1 415

Independent Waldorf Education Spanish, Mandarin

$16,300 - $54,100 FA Available

NAIS, WASC

St. Anthony-Immaculate Conception

K-8 All Gender 20:1 180

Roman Catholic

$6,100 - $7,800

WASC, WCEA

Sterne School

4-12 All Gender 8:1 187

Independent Spanish

$42,350 - $43,670

NAIS WASC, ISSFBA BAAD

Stratford School

K - Grade 5 All Gender K 15:1 Elem 22:1 Varies

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by age

WASC, CSSES

Stratford School 14th Avenue

PS-6 All Gender 12:1(PS) 15:1(K-6)

Non Religious Mandarin, Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

Stratford Middle School

6-8 All Gender 15:1

Non Religious Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

Stratford School Parkside

PS-PK All Gender 12:1(PS) 15:1(K)

Non Religious Mandarin, Spanish

Varies by Program

WASC, CPSTEME

3741 Buchanan St San Francisco • 415-429-2008 www.guidepostmontessori.com/schools/fortmason-san-francisco-ca 3140 Balboa Street San Francisco • 415-525-4035 www.kfsschool.org

1555 Mariposa St San Francisco • 415-861-8840 www.liveoaksf.org 1055 Ellis St. San Francisco • 415-772-6626 www.shcp.edu p. 56-57, 64 2938 Washington Street San Francisco • 415-931-2750 www.sfwaldorf.org

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

838 Kearny Street San Francisco • 415-922-6081 www.sterneschool.org p. 43, 84 301 DeMontfort Avenue San Francisco • 415-333-3134 www.stratfordsfdemontfort.com p. 2, 91

645 14th Avenue San Francisco • 415-742-4254 www.stratfordsf14.com p. 2, 91

75 St. Francis Street San Francisco • 415-715-8648 www.stratfordsfms.com p. 2, 91 2425 19th Avenue San Francisco • 415-564-6250 www.stratfordsfparkside.com p. 2, 91

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FEATURED BOARDING SCHOOLS

Featured Boarding Schools

Boarding Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Boarding / Day

Affiliation Specialty Programs Notes

Boarding Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Archbishop Riordan High School

9-12 All Gender 11/1 23 / 825

Catholic Summer Programs

$35,000 $58,000 FA Available

WASC

Army and Navy Academy

7-12 Boys Only 15:1 288 / 32

Independent Military

$42,800 FA Available

WASC, CAIS

The Athenian School

6-12 All Gender 12:1 61 / 469

Independent Summer Programs

$0-83,000 for boarding students FA Available

WASC, CAIS

Cate School

9-12 All Gender 5:1 227 / 48

Independent Leadership Program Summer Programs

$62,900 FA Available

WASC

Dunn School

5-12 All Gender 5:1 100 / 80

Independent Fine & Performing Arts Program Summer Programs

$61,000 FA Available

WASC, CAIS

EF Academy

9-12 All Gender 7:1 250 / 0

Independent

$62,250 FA Available

NAIS, CAIS

Hawaii Preparatory Academy

9-12 All Gender 12:1 200 / 200

Independent

$57,200 FA Available

HAIS, WASC

Idyllwild Arts Academy

9-12 All Gender 5:1 277 / 41

Independent Arts Program Summer Programs

$65,091 FA Available

WASC, CAIS

175 Phelan Avenue San Francisco, CA • 415-586-8200 www.riordanhs.org 2605 Carlsbad Boulevard Carlsbad, CA • 888-762-2338 www.armyandnavyacademy.org 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. Danville, CA • 510-837-5375 www.athenian.org/ p. 7, 65 1960 Cate Mesa Road Carpinteria, CA • 805-684-4127 www.cate.org/ 2555 West Highway 154 Los Olivos, CA • 800-287-9197 www.dunnschool.org/ 1539 E Howard Street Pasadena, CA • 914-495-6056 www.efacademy.com 65-1692 Kohala Mountain Road Kamuela, HI • 808-881-4321 www.hpa.edu 52500 Temecula Rd. Idyllwild, CA • 951-659-2171 www.idyllwildarts.org/

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FEATURED BOARDING SCHOOLS

Boarding Schools

Grades Gender Stud-Fac Ratio Boarding / Day

Affiliation Specialty Programs Notes

Boarding Tuition Range Tuition Assistance

Accreditation/ Associations

Lake Tahoe Preparatory School

9-12 All Gender 7:1 70 / 5

Independent Summer Programs

$55,000 FA Available

MSASC, NIPSA

Monte Vista Christian School

9-12 All Gender 16:1 76 / 564

Christian

$45,900

WASC, ACSI

The Oxbow School

11-12 All Gender

Independent Arts Focus Summer Options

$32,000 FA Available

WASC, CAIS

255 Squaw Valley Road Olympic Valley, CA • 530-583-8665 www.laketahoeprep.org Two School Way Watsonville, CA • 831-722-8178 www.mvcs.org/ 530 3rd Street Napa, CA • 707-255-6000 www.oxbowschool.org/

45 / 15

San Domenico School

K-12 Boarding: 9-12 All Gender 9:1 140/ 240

Dominican Values Mandarin, Spanish Summer Option

$25,500 $65,000 FA Available

NAIS, TABS, CAIS, WASC, ICG, WBSA

Southwestern Academy

6-12 All Gender 8:1 121 / 22

Independent Summer Programs

$44,600 FA Available

WASC

Stevenson School

PK-12 All Gender 10:1 765

Non Denominational Latin, French, Spanish, Japanese

PK: $19,500 K-8: 31,300 9-12 Day : $48,100 9-12 Boarding: $74,900 FA Available

CAIS, NAIS, TABS

Sugar Bowl Academy

8-12 All Gender 5:1 60 / 2

Independent Ski Focus

$50,960 FA Available

Tahoe Prep Academy

9-12 All Gender

Independent Ice Hockey

$47,500 FA Available

1500 Butterfield Road San Anselmo • 415-258-1900 www.SanDomenico.org

2800 Monterey Road San Marino, CA • 626-799-5010 www.southwesternacademy.edu/ 3152 Forest Lake Road Pebble Beach, CA • 831-625-8309 www.stevensonschool.org

815 Lupine Trail Norden, CA • 530-426-1844 www.sbacademy.org 2478 Meyers Grade Road South Lake Tahoe, CA • 844-752-9842 www.tahoehockeyacademy.com

66 / 5

The Thacher School

9-12 All Gender 5:1 227 / 27

Independent Gifted Programs

$62,810 FA Available

WASC, CAIS

Villanova Preparatory School

9-12 All Gender 10:1 82 / 136

Independent Summer Programs

$51,500 $61,500 FA Available

WASC

Woodside Priory School

9-12 All Gender 7:1 50 / 350

Catholic

$85,260 FA Available

WASC, CAIS, SBSA, WBSA, TABS, WCEA

5025 Thacher Road Ojai, CA • 805-646-4377 www.thacher.org/ 12096 N. Ventura Avenue Ojai, CA • 805-646-1464 www.villanovaprep.org/

302 Portola Road Portola Valley, CA • 650-851-8221 www.prioryca.org

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What Does Accreditation Mean?

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 www.ParentsPress.com

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 some of the accrediting, affiliation, and association bodies that schools list in our Regional Guide to Private Schools. ABC - Arts in Basic Curriculum, www.abcinstitutesc.org ACSI - Association of Christian Schools International, www.acsi.org AEFE - Agence pour l’Enseignement Français à l’Etranger, www.aefe.fr AISAP - Assoc. of Independent School Admission Professionsals, www.aisap.org AMI - American Montessori Internationale, www.montessori-ami.org AMS - American Montessori Society, www.amshq.org BADA - Bay Area Directors of Admission, www.issfba.org BAMA - Bay Area Montessori Association, www.bayareamontessoriassociation.com CAIS - California Association of Independent Schools, www.caisca.org CDE - California Department of Education, www.cde.ca.gov Cognia - Cognia Performance Standards, www.cognia.org CPSTEME - Carnegie Science Seal of Excellence for STEM, www.carnegiesciencecenter.org CQEL - California Quality Early Learning, www.caqualityearlylearning.org Green Ribbon School - US Department of Education, www2.eg.gov IALDS - International Association of Lerner Driven Schools, ialds.org IB, IBO - International Baccalaureate, www.ibo.org ICG - Independant Curriculum Group, www.independentcurriculum.org ICGS - International Coalition of Girl’s Schools, girlsschools.org IMC - The International Montessori Council, www.montessori.org ISBOA - CA Independent Schools Business Officer Association, www.isboa.org ISSFBA - Independent Schools of the San Francisco Bay Area, www.issfba.org NAEYC - National Association for the Education of Young Children, www.naeyc.org NAIS - National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org NCAA Approved - National College Athletic Association, www.ncaa.org NCEA - National Catholic Educational Association, www.ncea.org NCGS - National Coalition of Girl’s Schools, girlsschools.org NCPSA - National Council for Private School Accreditation, www.ncpsa.org NIPSA - National Independent Private Schools Association, www.nipsa.org PASCH - Schulen: Partner der Zukunft, www.pasch-net.de PEN - Progressive Education Network, www.progressiveeducationnetwork.org POCIS - People of Color in Independent Schools of N CA, www.nocapocis.org SBSA - Small Boarding Schools Association, www.sbsaonline.org SHCOG - Sacred Heart Commission on Goals, www.sacredheartusc.education TABS - The Association of Boarding Schools, www.tabs.org WASC - Western Association of Schools and Colleges, www.acswasc.org WBSA - Western Boarding Schools Association, www.westernboardingschools.org WCEA - Western Catholic Education Association, www.wcea.org

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