Lakeshore Alternative Elementary School

There is no crystal ball for parents trying to find the right school for their kids. The only real guide is your own experience—how you’ve learned, grown, and found connection through community and education.Both of my children came from a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool that was small, cozy, and deeply creative. We loved it. When it was time for kindergarten, we wondered if the structure of a parochial school would suit them. What we discovered is that St. Cecilia offers a beautiful balance. Our home life is playful and a little weird, and having a school environment that brings structure, accountability, and rhythm has been the perfect complement. It allows our kids to thrive academically while staying curious, joyful, and themselves.The academics here are strong and thoughtful, blending foundational skills with creative exploration. Spanish begins in TK, which has been a wonderful early exposure to language. Sports are also a huge part of the experience. From TK onward, the focus on teamwork, participation, and building the basics of different sports is both energizing and confidence-boosting. The effort teachers and coaches put into creating opportunities for movement and connection is something we truly value.At St. Cecilia, community feels like the heartbeat of it all. As a transplant to San Francisco who married a local, I wanted a small-town feel in a big city—a place where my kids would be known, loved, and nurtured. That has been true every step of the way. From the teachers and staff to the parents who volunteer side by side, there is a warmth that makes you feel immediately at home.I was not raised Catholic and wondered if that might make me feel out of place. Those worries disappeared instantly. The faith-based foundation at St. Cecilia is rooted in kindness, service, and shared values that include every family. It feels thoughtful, respectful, and inclusive in a way that makes everyone feel welcome.Over the years, I’ve found myself volunteering again and again, surrounded by parents who share laughter, meals, and a genuine sense of purpose. This school is more than just a place where my children learn—it’s a community that has embraced us completely. We’ve found something truly special here, and I’m so grateful to watch both my children and our family continue to grow within it.

St. Stephen School presents itself as an institution that “warmly welcomes families to experience a tradition of excellence in Catholic education.” However, our family’s experience did not reflect the values of inclusion, accountability, and compassion that are central to both Catholic teaching and the school’s mission.San Francisco is widely recognized as one of the most diverse cities in the Bay Area, and families reasonably expect its schools to reflect and celebrate that diversity. In our experience, St. Stephen’s student population appeared predominantly Caucasian, with comparatively limited representation from other backgrounds.My sister attended St. Stephen’s briefly but ultimately transferred because she was subjected to bullying related to the color of her skin. These concerns were repeatedly brought to the attention of teachers and administrators, yet no meaningful disciplinary action was taken to address the behavior.A Catholic education should emphasize dignity, respect, and the principle of treating others as you would like to be treated. When incidents of discrimination are overlooked, it sends a troubling message that such conduct is tolerated.Since transferring to another Catholic school, my sister has thrived in a more supportive environment. Unfortunately, when she encounters former St. Stephen’s classmates during athletic events, she is still met with staring, pointing, and laughter.Dismissing this conduct with the phrase “they’re just kids” avoids the accountability necessary to correct harmful behavior. Children learn their values from both their schools and their homes, and schools have a responsibility to reinforce kindness, respect, and inclusion for every student.

My three children have thrived at SF Waldorf High School. Academics, clubs and sports all making a positive impact on their high school years. My two oldest are studying engineering at university. They were both very well prepared for the rigors of college academics. My oldest has said physics in college was easy because his HS teachers taught him everything. And math club brought a social element to his academic slant. My second child loved sports at SF Waldorf HS, playing soccer and basketball. At Waldorf, anyone can play; there are no tryouts or cuts. The coaches exude positivity. And the school also wins! My son's basketball team won the state championship for their division two years ago. My youngest child just finished 9th grade. The teachers really focus on every student and truly have their interests at the forefront. The transition from middle school was seamless, she had a great first year and is looking forward to the rest of her high school journey at SF Waldorf.