Independent School Guide 2010

A critical, rewarding and all-encompassing aspect of parenting is providing education for our children.

Learning is a life-long pursuit and opportunity in which parents play an important part throughout much of a child’s life; a mom or dad is often the first person an offspring turns to for understanding of the world and its inhabitants, acquiring necessary skills – mentally physically, socially, emotionally, learning cause and effect, right and wrong, for assistance defining herself as an individual. Parents provide the earliest feedback on values, including education-related values such as reading, learning, questioning, stretching.

In our society, besides the learning children receive from their parents and caregivers, the expectation, in fact the law is that from the ages of four or five until approximately eighteen, kids receive what is termed formal or academic education. These thirteen or fourteen years of structured learning are available in many forms including public and private schools, charter schools (a growing subculture of the public school system), academies, homeschooling. Within these categories are numerous variations: styles, philosophies, missions, values, curriculum, specialization… the choices become myriad. Again the parents’ role is vital: evaluating and selecting schools.

While choosing among the many different programs with all their uniqueness can be overwhelming and confusing, consider the upside: there is a wonderful, exciting array of choices today, and hopefully a suitable match for every student. A good fit for the parent is also important for a child’s success and everyone’s comfort level.

GUiSC’s Annual Guide to Independent Schools offers snapshots of Independent Schools (including charter schools) in our community. Parents may already have some very clear criteria for schools. Reading all of the entries in the Guide will provide information for assessing a school in terms of those criteria and may very well illuminate new or additional considerations when choosing a learning environment. Many factors can enter into the evaluation and selection of a school for your child: academics, so-called non-academics, teaching philosophy, social environment, level of parental involvement, funding, values, unique programs, teacher/student ratio, physical education program. The importance of each varies from family to family and with each child and may involve prioritization. Is a fine arts program offered? Are computers readily available? Are children encouraged to set goals? Will the school provide for my child’s interests as well as offer new interest?

The Annual Guide to Independent Schools provides contact phone numbers for you to request additional information, ask questions and arrange for a meeting or tour. Be sure to ask about open houses, they are an excellent opportunity to view the entire facility, meet staff members and chat with parents of children already attending the school.

Whether you are enrolling your child in a Santa Cruz community school for the first time or seeking a new setting for a child whose needs or interests have changed, the Annual Guide is an excellent resource. It can be pulled out and kept forever and is also available on our website (www.growing-up.com) for the entire year. The process of finding the right school for your child is challenging and time-consuming and can also be a fascinating, exciting learning experience.


The Aptos Academy, Pre K-8
1940 Bonita Dr, Aptos
831.688.1080
www.aptosacademy.org
Inspired teaching plus arts-enriched academics make the difference! The Aptos Academy is a non-profit, non-denominational, independent school located on a beautiful 5-acre campus just off Highway 1. We offer an exciting and affordable program that combines strong academics with dailyphysical education, foreign language, an extensive arts program as well as a wide variety of elective classes for upper grade students. After School activities include Homework and Horse clubs. Students gain skill and confidence as a result of individual attention in small classes, an emphasis on good study habits, a complete understanding of materials at each grade, and the ability to move forward as soon as they are ready. Our graduates are motivated, knowledgeable and considerate individuals, prepared for their next level of education. Now fully accredited by WASC. School hours: 8:30 to 3:45. After school: 4:00 to 6:00. Call now for more information or a personal tour.


Baymonte Christian School
5000B Granite Creek Road, Scotts Valley
831.438.0100
www.baymonte.org
Baymonte Christian School is an independent, interdenominational Christian school serving preschool through eighth grade. The school's curriculum integrates a Christian worldview, while challenging and preparing our students for high school and beyond. We emphasize a culture of compassion through student participation in local and international aid. Extra-curricular activities include music, athletics and clubs. Established in 1968, Baymonte was one of only 214 schools nationally to receive the prestigious No Child Left Behind National Blue Ribbon School Award. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Association of Christian Schools International.


Chartwell School
2511 Numa Watson, Seaside
831.394.3468
www.chartwell.org
Chartwell School specializes in helping students with dyslexia and other language-based learning variations reach their full potential. Our LEED Platinum campus is one of the greenest in the country and it is carefully designed for optimal learning. Classrooms feature day-lighting, fresh air and special workstations. Chartwell’s comprehensive academic program is carefully individualized for each student. Expert teachers instruct small classes in language arts, math, science and technology. Chartwell students also enjoy classes in art, humanities, music, physical education and drama, as well as competitive sports. Our Summer Program offers an array academic courses in fundamental skills for students ages 6-18


Gateway School, K-8
126 Eucalyptus Ave, Santa Cruz
831.423.0341 ext 302
www.gatewaysc.org
Celebrating 40 Years of Academic Excellence! At Gateway School, we recognize that the world in which our children live is continually changing. To cope with the demands of growing up in such a dynamic time, students need to know more than core subjects such as language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. They need to know how to apply their knowledge and skills – by thinking critically, communicating effectively and working collaboratively -- to creatively address and solve challenges. At Gateway, students develop these higher-level skills every day, learning academic content through real-world examples and experiences from across the street and around the globe. Small class sizes ensure individual attention from teachers who really know each child. In this safe and supportive environment, students are free to learn, explore and prepare for success in our 21st century global community. For more information, please see our ad on the back cover.


Georgiana Bruce Kirby Preparatory School, grades 6-12
425 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz
831.423.0658 x202
www.kirby.org
Founded in 1994, Kirby School is distinguished by its excellent academic and exceptional arts programs. Students thrive in stimulating middle and high school classes that average just 12 students. Our balanced curriculum fuses academics, visual and performing arts, and fitness and wellness programs to balance each student's intellectual, artistic, physical, and social development. Students pursue individual excellence as they choose from a range of comprehensive or AP/Honors courses and take math and language courses based upon their level of readiness, not grade. Professional college counseling assists students in admission to the finest colleges in the world. Education is enriched through state-of-the-art science and computer labs, darkroom, kiln, printing press, recording studio, and a cafeteria that serves nutritious, organic meals. Call to schedule a student shadow or to RSVP for the January 28 Open House. Application deadline is February 19, 2010.


Good Shepherd Catholic School
2727 Mattison Lane
Santa Cruz
831.476.4000
www.gsschool.org
Good Shepherd Catholic School, located in central Santa Cruz County, offers a fully accredited academic program for students in grades Preschool-8. Welcoming students of all faiths since 1963, our qualified teachers and staff provide individualized instruction through a values-based, character education. Our co-curricular programs include Spanish, computers, library, music, and p.e. Fifth through eighth graders also receive enrichment through our unique overnight trips, school-wide leadership opportunities, and interscholastic sports. Open House is Wednesday, February 3rd at 5:30 p.m. School hours: 7:30 to 3:30 with after-school care until 6:00 p.m. every day.


Green Valley Christian School
376 S. Green Valley Rd.
Watsonville
831.724.6505
www.gvcs.org
Green Valley Christian School is intent in its pursuit of graduating students of character and academic competence for service to the community.
Character
Competence
Community
The school was founded in 1970 to provide an excellent and focused educational alternative for children in the Santa Cruz area. We offer a strong Christian faith based experience in a great environment. GVCS is an accredited School - Kindergarten through 8th grade - through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Association of Christian Schools International. Come visit us!


Montessori Scotts Valley
123 S. Navara Dr., Scotts Valley
831.439.9313
www.montessorisv.com
Montessori Scotts Valley offers an individualized education that follows children's natural development to maximize abilities and interests, applying the philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. MSV offers programs from infancy (6 weeks) through Kindergarten (6 years). Our programs cultivate a holistic education, building focus and independence, providing strong social and academic foundations, and educating children for life. Maria Montessori understood that education must begin at birth, and be comprehensive to meet children's complex needs, and to prepare children for life. Recent scientific studies reveal that Montessori-educated children outperform their traditionally educated peers in academics, creativity, problem solving, and social skills.


Monte Vista Christian School
2 School Way, Watsonville
831.722.8178
www.mvcs.org
Our country setting of 100 acres of rolling lawns, ponds, and redwoods provides a safe community where 800+ students enjoy learning. As a coeducational college-preparatory school for day students (grades 6-8, 9-12) and residents (grades 9-12), students can get involved in our exciting student activities, our award-winning arts program, and our challenging courses which offer college credit. Caring teachers encourage students to think independently, to strengthen their problem-solving skills, and to live with integrity. As our students grow in intellect, athleticism, and social responsibility, we share with them the joyful truth about Jesus Christ through thought-provoking study of the Bible.


Mount Madonna School, PreK-12
491 Summit Road, Watsonville
408.847.2717
www.MountMadonnaSchool.org
Mount Madonna School, founded in 1979 and accredited by WASC & CAIS, offers an age-appropriate college-preparatory program through the integration of Academic Excellence, Creative Self-Expression and Positive Character Development. Providing a safe, caring environment for students in Preschool through 12th grade, MMS is located in the hills between Watsonville and Gilroy on 355 acres of redwood and oak forests overlooking the Monterey Bay. The faculty takes learning beyond the four classroom walls: service learning, student travel, and outdoor adventures are all integrated into a rich and varied educational program. The school supports each student in becoming a caring, self-aware and articulate critical thinker, who is prepared to meet challenges with perseverance, creativity and integrity.


The New High School Project (TNHSP)
2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside
831.394.8004
www.newhighschool.org
The New High School Project (TNHSP) is a complete rethinking of the high school experience. TNHSP is designed for the students it serves – bright students with language-based learning variations. Our students work hard and have obvious potential, but they may have struggled in a traditional education setting. At TNHSP, students benefit from a college preparatory curriculum that features project-based learning, frequent field experiences and a rich array of technology. Students enjoy small classes, one-on-one support, a green campus and an innovative schedule that features flexible block periods and a 9:00 a.m. start time. One third of TNHSP students come from Santa Cruz.


Pacific Coast Charter School
294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville
831.786.2180
www.pccs.pvusd.net
Pacific Coast Charter School (PCCS) is a unique, high-quality K-12 public education option that blends personalized learning and independent study with academic, college prep, arts and enrichment courses taught by credentialed teachers. PCCS provides parents and students a broad-sweeping educational roadmap that leverages the school's supportive network of teachers, extensive multi-media library and academic and enrichment programs--all geared towards maximizing each student's potential. PCCS believes that students excel in a self-directed, self-paced educational environment that includes access to a variety of learning opportunities, environments and methods. At PCCS, under the guidance and supervision of their parents and teachers, students create individualized learning plans which enable them to pursue their unique individual interests and goals while meeting the education requirements of PVUSD and the State of California.


Pacific Elementary School Independent Study Program
Pacific Elementary School
50 Ocean Street, Davenport
831.425.7002
www.pacific.santacruz.k12.ca.us
Our parent-participation K-6 grade program provides an alternative to traditional home schooling. Students meet three days a week in multi-age classrooms, receiving consistent structured, standards-based curriculum, and regular interaction with qualified teachers and other children. The remaining days are spent learning and exploring outside school with a supportive home school community.


Santa Catalina School
1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey
831.655.9300
santacatalina.org
Santa Catalina is an independent, college preparatory school located in Monterey, for girls in grades 9-12, and serves both boarding and day students, including 13 from Santa Cruz County. We offer a comprehensive academic and extracurricular program with honors and AP classes, fine arts, theatre arts, music, dance and a number of student clubs and activities. We have 13 interscholastic athletic teams including golf, field hockey, lacrosse, equestrian and soccer. Faculty-student interaction is enhanced with the faculty advisory program for grades 9-12. A Santa Catalina education provides young women with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in college and beyond.


Santa Cruz Children's School, K-6
366 Gault St., Santa Cruz
831.429.8444
www.scchildrensschool.com
At Santa Cruz Children's School, your child can expect to enjoy learning. Something exciting and stimulating happens every day. Students love being at school and thrive in an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and diligence. Small classes insure that your student has an opportunity to excel. All students are given work that is appropriate for them and everyone receives all the help they need to succeed. The strong academic program includes science, social studies, and Spanish, as well as language arts and math programs. Singing begins in kindergarten and never stops. Instrumental instruction begins with recorder and continues with saxophone, clarinet and flute. Students create art through painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, collage, and more. Art is integrated into math, science, history, and writing. Here all students have a chance to shine!


Santa Cruz Montessori, Ages 18 months-15 years
Main Campus (Primary and Elementary)
6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831.476.1646, Enrollment: ext. 12
www.scms.org


Winston Campus (Young Children's Community and Jr. High)
244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel
831.476.1646, Enrollment: ext. 12
www.scms.org
Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit, independent school founded in 1964 serving children ages 18 months to 15 years. Our programs include the arts, sciences, mathematics, literature, language, social studies and music. Our beautiful Montessori classrooms are designed to engage all of the child's senses and create a life-long love of learning. Our mission is to guide and nurture the natural development of the whole person where students develop a respect for nature and the global family. Our students grow with a healthy spirit, a clear intellect, and a strong character so they may realize their unique contributions as they work for a noble and peaceful world.


Santa Cruz Waldorf School, K-8
2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz
831.425.0519 x 222
www.scwaldorf.org
Santa Cruz Waldorf School, K-8 Adjacent to the University of California campus, the Santa Cruz Waldorf School has nourished healthy children for 30 years. Waldorf teaching fosters the goodness, beauty, and truth in each child by meeting students at every stage of their physical and psychological development. Our Kindergarten program nurtures young children through storytelling, song, movement, and healthy play. In grades 1-8, classical subject matter is supported through daily handwork, movement, music, foreign language, and gardening. With nearly 1,000 schools worldwide, Waldorf education is the fastest-growing independent school movement in the world.


Spring Hill - The Advanced
School of Santa Cruz, K-8
250 California Street, Santa Cruz
831.427.2641
www.springhillschool.org
Spring Hill provides an enriched educational experience where children love to come to school each day. Classes are small, limited to 16 students in the lower grades. Our excellent teachers provide learning in an exciting and imaginative environment. Teachers work closely with each student, focusing on individual needs and offering challenging, differentiated curriculum. Hands-on learning experiences are plentiful and encourage students to become active participants instead of passive learners. They become critical thinkers - able to apply not only what they have learned, but more importantly, the process of learning, to life situations. Being good and kind citizens is emphasized through social and emotional development, diversity awareness, and conflict resolution.


Tara Redwood School
5810 Prescott Road, Soquel
831.462.9632
www.tararedwoodschool.org
Tara Redwood School’s primary focus is empowering children to make a positive difference in the world. Our goal is to provide a foundation for living a successful, happy and meaningful life. We offer a rich curriculum based on Montessori and current constructivist methodologies and we are a pilot school for the development of Essential Education. Our campus is in a location of great peace and beauty just 5 minutes from Soquel Village. We offer Preschool, Primary and Elementary classes for 3 – 10 year olds. Monday-Friday 9am – 3pm. Aftercare is available until 5:30 pm.


Tierra Pacifica Charter School, K-8
986 Bostwick Lane
Santa Cruz
831.462.9404
www.tierrapacifica.santacruz.k12.ca.us/
Tierra Pacifica is a joyful K-8 learning community that achieves high academic results while honoring the whole child. Parent participation and a socially responsive culture are at the heart of our school. Our program focuses on environmental stewardship, creativity and non-violent communication. Founded in 1998, we serve 145 students in six multi-age classrooms. Tierra Pacifica is a tuition free public charter school located in Live Oak School District. We are hosting an Information Night on Thursday, February 25, 6:30 p.m. The deadline for applications to be included in the lottery for 2010-11 enrollment is March 15th.


Twin Lakes Christian School
2701 Cabrillo College Drive
Aptos
831.465.3301
www.tlcs.us
At Twin Lakes Christian School we strive to offer a full academic curriculum for our kindergarten through sixth grade students, exceeding state standards, with a Christ-centered emphasis. We make every effort to promote healthy physical and social development through class interaction, field studies, and special events which foster both self-respect and respect of others as made in the image of God. The teachers at TLCS are qualified, experienced, and committed to excellence. They take time to help students and give them care and counsel consistent with the Christian view of life. We endeavor to work in harmony with the home, not supplanting it but rather supplementing it and to inculcate strong moral principles in today’s youth so they may be better prepared to assume the leadership roles of tomorrow.


Watsonville Charter School of the Arts, K-8 (West Campus)
115 Casserly Rd, Watsonville
831.728.8123
www.wcsa.santacruz.k12.ca.us
The Watsonville Charter School of the Arts, founded in 2001, is a public charter school with 315 students in grades K-8. We serve a diverse population and celebrate the many cultures that comprise the Pajaro Valley. We believe in high academic achievement for all students and we integrate all art forms to enhance and deepen the learning process. Our teachers are experts in bringing the love of learning to all students. We offer weekly Orff music lessons for K-6, and visual and performing arts taught by professional artists. Academic excellence, creativity, and empathy for others are promoted. The school is an intentional small community that works closely with families as partners in their child's education. Parents are always welcome on campus!


York School, 8-12
9501 York Road, Monterey
831.372.7338 x115
www.york.org
York School is an independent, co-educational, college preparatory day school, with 225 students in grades 8-12; 25 students make the drive from Santa Cruz. York offers a comprehensive academic program with honors and AP classes that provides excellent preparation for college and opportunities for personal expression through participation in clubs, drama, music, sports, student government, and social activities. Small classes provide direct interaction with faculty and the kind of personal attention that takes students to the next level—100% of our students go on to college. A strong financial aid program assists 41% of students, more than twice the national average.



Other Educational Support Services


Aux Trois Pommes-CA
Foreign Language School
765 Cedar St. Suite 103
Santa Cruz
831.421.0898
www.aux3pommes-ca.com
Aux Trois Pommes-CA offers foreign languages programs for children and adults. Our classes will start in downtown Santa Cruz in January. We offer full immersion classes in French, Spanish, German, Mandarin, Arabic, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Portuguese. Classes are limited to 5 students and private lessons are also available. This program is based on one created by our sister school 8 years ago in Connecticut (www.aux3pommes.com) and which has had an amazing success in teaching languages to children as well as adults. Some of the students there are learning their fourth language.


Club Z! In-Home Tutoring
831.662.2504
www.clubztutoring.com
Club Z! In-Home Tutoring helps students master subject material, improve grades, raise test scores, learn study skills, build academic self-confidence, and reach their full potential. The program provides individualized, one-on-one instruction in the student’s home. Club Z! Tutors are experienced degreed professionals and state certified instructors with impeccable credentials and a heartfelt enthusiasm for teaching. We serve all ages, pre-K to adult, in all subjects including reading, mathematics, science, history - as well as study skills, foreign languages, ACT and SAT test prep, and much more. Call now to schedule your free initial consultation.


Developmental Learning Solutions
700 Frederick St. Suite 104
Santa Cruz
831.429.5987
www.dls-learning.com
DLS is an educational therapy, tutoring, and SAT preparation center. We also provide independent studies classes through BYU, LSU, and other universities for high school and college students who want to do one-on-one instruction. We offer educational consultations and assessments in order to identify learning conditions and remediation programs. DLS has been serving people of all ages in the Santa Cruz community for approximately thirteen years.


Educational Resource Center of Santa Cruz
224C Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz
831.818.8178
www.edcentersantacruz.com
Lending Library Open Wed.-Sat., 11am to 4pm
Are you looking for a way to enrich your child’s preschool or grade school experience? The Educational Resource Center offers a variety of services to meet your needs. Visit our membership based lending library of over 3000 educational toys, games, and learning materials for children ages 2-12. Join one of our enrichment classes in art, science, and math for preschool and grade school children. Meet with Heddi Craft, experienced classroom teacher and educational consultant to plan for your child’s specific educational goals. Whatever your needs, we are here to help your child reach his or her full potential.


Independent School Fair
As a parent, one of the best investments you can make is a high-quality education for your child. To succeed in school and in life, children need to build vision, skills and talents long before college. Come to a FREE informational event for families and discover exceptional independent school choices in our local community. The 8th Annual Central Coast Independent School Fair (PreK-12th grades), January 20, 6:30-9:00pm, Markey Community Center, Resurrection Church, 7600 Soquel Drive, Aptos. For a list of participating schools and more information visit www.IndependentSchoolFair.com or call Colleen at 831-423-0341 x302 or Lara at (408) 846-4032.


Jane Fleet Tutoring, BA, OCR Dip SpLD
831.335.8141
wordclasstutoring @yahoo.com
Helping children achieve their potential. Is your child struggling with reading or dyslexia? Worldclass tutoring can help! British teacher with over 20 years teaching experience, specialized skills in teaching and assessing students with specific learning difficulties/differences. Personalized multi-sensory programs. Grades K-6


KidsArt
226-D Mt. Herman Road
Scotts Valley
831.439.9233
KidsArt is now offering new home school classes! Students will be taught how to draw in class and apply what they have learned at home. Students will work hands on under the supervision of a KidsArt instructor in Small classes with individual attention. You will notice a difference in improved handwriting and motor skills. KidsArt classes are a fun and educational activity and we provide age appropriate curriculum. Call us to schedule a free introductory class! Home school classes are held Tuesday from 1:00 to 2:30, and Wednesday from 1:00- 2:30; please ask for other available times.


One on One Tutoring
831.704.7254
www.WonOneLtd.com
I love kids! Fortunately, having taught all grades as an Alaskan Bush teacher, as a rural ranch teacher, and as a K-8 teacher in San Jose for twenty-two years, I have an extensive, diverse, professional background in curriculum as a fully certificated teacher. I interrelate multiple levels of abilities and learning styles across any curriculum. One on one private, tutoring program is customized for your student's needs at their pace in your own home. I specialize in reading, writing, spelling, and math. Home-schoolers, GATE kids, and dyslexic students are welcomed. Scholarships are available Call for a free consultation and evaluation.


Outdoor Science Exploration
831.423.5925
www.osefun.com


Pediatric Therapy Center
8050 Soquel Drive, Suite A, Aptos
831.684.1804


Santa Cruz Spanish
PO Box 3082, Santa Cruz
831.345.1961
www.SCSpanish.com


Steps to Success Educational Therapy
4145 Clares St, Suite G
Capitola
831.621.8100
www.stepstosuccessedtherapy.com
Start the new year off right! We are a comprehensive educational therapy practice for children (K-12th grade) with learning differences. Using a family centered approach, we work to strengthen learning deficits, remediate academic skills and develop successful learning strategies. Services offered include educational assessments, individualized educational therapy, parent training, and tutoring.


Teach By-The-Beach
8037 Soquel Drive, Aptos
831.454.9696
www.teachbythebeach.com
We offer a rare combination of teaching and therapeutic approaches to individuals with educational or communicative needs. We provide a full spectrum of services ranging from early childhood subjects to highest-end secondary math and science curricula. We are energetic, compassionate, and eager to meet the individual needs of our students.


The individual schools submitted each school listing. GUiSC does not assume responsibility for the content of the listings or endorse any specific school. The guide is for informational purposes only. If you would like to have your school listed in next year's Guide to Independent Schools, please call 831.464.7863 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .