El Cerrito Senior High School

We really loved this school when we started with our first child. Everything we loved about it-the teachers, the community, the academics, the social emotional/social justice pieces have sadly become perfunctory now and are no longer the soul of the school. Many cuts have been made to teachers, programs and to the priorities of the school and it no longer stands out to us a unique and worthwhile independent School option. We hoped to send our younger child, but have decided on another school after witnessed the fall from grace of the last several years. The financial cost to send your child to a school like this should feel as though it is worth it and Prospect Sierra simply does not feel worth it anymore. They are cutting so many corners and so many beneficial things for students that you wonder where your money is actually being spent. (it is not just on teachers sadly)

My son started kindergarten is past fall and has been THRIVING. He in the past has struggled with transitions and he adapted to his new school and environment so quickly. He has really blossomed at Golestan and become an confident and excited learner. In just 3 months he has quickly picked up on phonics, can spell out some words and identify others. The teachers here make the learning so intentional and rigorous while also making it joyful. I love that little to no screens are used in the school and they really teach students (and families) how to be great humans all around. We feel so lucky to be a part of this school. It's the kind of learning environment that all children deserve.