School Founding and Composition

• Independent, non-profit/501(c)(3), co-educational, day school founded by families, for families
• Opened Fall 2010
• Building to full lower and middle school (Jr K-8)
• Diverse community of students, faculty and families
• Alliances with other community non-profits

Curriculum

• Innovative, progressive curriculum grounded in scientific method and hands-on, experience-based learning
•  Emphasis on science, math and technology
• Small class sizes (maximum of 16-18 for Jr K-2nd grade and 18-20 for 3rd-4th grades)
•  Individualized academic program that incorporates play and social development
• Breadth of subject matter: art, drama, language arts, math, music, physical education, public speaking and presentation, science, social and community studies, Spanish
• Community service component
• School day: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (plus Bookends before and after school program) 

Faculty

• Energetic, nurturing, team-based teaching
• Team includes Head of School Ed Walters (who also teaches science), lead teachers, art director, assistant teachers, Bookends guide, subject-matter experts
•  Graduate degrees in education, creative writing, and art
• Spanish fluency

Campus

•  Centrally located in the Mission District
• Site designed for diverse, project-based learning: Library (1000+ books and growing!), Science Lab/Art Studio, Gymnasium, Garden Terrace with organic garden
• Alta Vista Adventures – San Francisco is our classroom

Technology

• Technology tools integrated into teaching and learning: Apple/Mac, SMART Board, Elmo, Flip video cameras, digital cameras
• Wireless throughout the school
• Delicious Library: electronic library catalog and check-out system that students can use themselves!
• School/Parent web communication portal

Bookends

• Program for before and after school + school closure days
• Enrichment activities, e.g., music, dance, map-making