Mary E. Silveira Elementary School

My kids went here for 1st through 4th and they absolutely loved all of their teachers and staff. zero bullying. all the kids treated eachother with respect.

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My daughter was very fortunate to spend several years attending Star Academy. It gave her the support and foundation she needed to be successful afterwards in a large public high school. What was really impressive and helpful about Star's program was the 1:1 work with specialists - the secret sauce of the program - AND all the support she ALSO had in the classroom. The teachers and specialists were very competent (important to me) and VERY kind, nurturing, and supportive (important to her). I am indebted to the program and staff.

I chose to wait a couple of years before writing this review because I wanted to truly get to know the school, the faculty, and see firsthand how they navigate challenges. Having joined the school as a transfer family, we also had a clear basis for comparison.Administration and FacultyThe school leadership operates with high integrity. In every situation I know of, it is evident that the administration is focused on doing what is right for the children and their families. They have successfully created a kind, nurturing environment. Because of the small class sizes, the teachers truly understand each student‘s unique strengths and weaknesses. They meet every student exactly where they are, showing genuine care while treating them with consistent respect and kindness.Academics and EngagementThe academic structure is thoughtfully designed to keep students engaged. My child has a very low threshold for boredom, yet he truly loves going to school every day. The environment is intellectually stimulating without being high-pressure, allowing students the necessary space to grow at their own pace. It is an ideal setting for curious, internally motivated learners.Community and Social GrowthBecause the school is small, the students form bonds across all grade levels. It is common to see big brother/sister type of relationship. This multi-age interaction has made my child comfortable socializing with people of all ages. Most importantly, my child has finally found his intellectual peers who share his deep interests and truly understand him.

I have three children who have either attended or are currently attending. My children receive(d) a well-rounded curriculum and solid education to help prepare them for highschool and beyond. When they started at Saint Isabella's, they jumped in from a different school and fit in immediately both socially and academically. The teachers are very caring, a good balance of strictness and nurturing. I am happy that my children were brought up in a Catholic school that provides spiritual enrichment daily. They learned about their faith and how to apply that to their lives. Aside, from standard curriculum, Saint Isabella dedicates time for my children to learn a second language, art, PE, music, library, and religion as well as after school enrichment classes and clubs. And as parents, my husband and I have enjoyed becoming friends with other parents. The school has definitely fostered a feeling of family within the school community.

The map is inaccurate. This school is at St. Vincent's along the bay. The school is for troubled teens.

As an alum of a Waldorf school, I find myself appreciating it more with every passing year. I’ve come to realize how deeply it shaped me, not just academically, but in how I lead, think, and connect with others. Waldorf gave me a foundation of confidence and self-awareness that I see reflected in so many of my fellow alumni.My Waldorf peers stand out in the real world; they’re grounded, emotionally intelligent, deeply creative, and incredibly kind. They lead with clarity and compassion in a way I rarely see in others our age. There’s authenticity and intentionality in how they show up in the world that I credit directly to our Waldorf upbringing.Many of my classmates have gone on to attend top universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and other highly regarded schools. Waldorf education in the early years may not always look traditionally academic, but it cultivates a love of learning and the ability to think independently. This education will prepare your student to not only succeed but to thrive. This kind of education doesn’t just prepare you for tests; it prepares you to be a thoughtful, capable human being. I’m endlessly grateful for Waldorf and would send my children here in a heartbeat.