For 50 years, Black Pine Circle School has created lifelong learners through an inquiry-based education that places an equal emphasis on academics and the arts.
Educationally, it is our goal to help create intellectually vibrant students who never lose their passion for learning.
Socially, it is our goal to instill respect, compassion, and empathy among our students. Our caring and engaged teachers are dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment where the focus is on inspiring and nurturing curiosity, community, inquiry, and voice in our students.
We believe in partnering with families as we get to know your child.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 318 students
- Yearly Tuition: $34,433
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Average class size: 21 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 18
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Black Pine Circle School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
Extracurriculars
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1973
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
318 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
21%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
49 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
21 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 18
Yearly Tuition Cost
$34,433
Tuition Notes
K-5: $32,700; 6-8: $37,900
% on Financial Aid
30%
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Greta B. Wong
Admissions Associate
Lydia Chow
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
23 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Advanced Math Team, Cartooning Club, Chess Club, Chickens & Garden Club, Dance Club, Debate Club, Drama Club, Dungeons & Dragons Club, Homework help / Study buddy club, Jr. Coding Club, Learn Mandarin through Play, Learn Spanish through Play, Lower School Engineering Club, Martial arts (judo, tae kwon do, karate, etc), Minecraft Club, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Club, Self-Defense Club, Textiles Club, Watercolors Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Band, Choir, Orchestra
Advanced Math Team, Cartooning Club, Chess Club, Chickens & Garden Club, Dance Club, Debate Club, Drama Club, Dungeons & Dragons Club, Homework help / Study buddy club, Jr. Coding Club, Learn Mandarin through Play, Learn Spanish through Play, Lower School Engineering Club, Martial arts (judo, tae kwon do, karate, etc), Minecraft Club, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Club, Self-Defense Club, Textiles Club, Watercolors Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Band, Choir, Orchestra
School Notes
- Our curriculum equally emphasizes science, math, and the arts. We actively engage our students in all aspects of culture and the arts, including music, art, drama, and foreign language. Here are some of our program highlights: * Inquiry-based instruction, emphasizing critical thinking and questioning * Enthusiastic, creative, and knowledgeable teachers * Small classes * K-8 classroom music and instrumental program (K-5 strings, orchestra, band, vocal ensembles) * Nationally recognized for math achievement * Hands-on science and gardening program * K-8 visual arts * K-8 technology integration * K-8 Spanish * 6-8 Mandarin * Renowned drama program and weekly student assemblies * Outdoor and environmental education program * Community service program * K-8 cross-grade activities * Student support team (pyschologist, counselor, and learning specialist) * Library
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Black Pine Circle School cost?
Black Pine Circle School's tuition is approximately $34,433 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Black Pine Circle School?
The acceptance rate of Black Pine Circle School is 60%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. Black Pine Circle School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Black Pine Circle School offer?
Black Pine Circle School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
What is Black Pine Circle School's ranking?
Black Pine Circle School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for Black Pine Circle School?
The application deadline for Black Pine Circle School is Jan. 18.
In what neighborhood is Black Pine Circle School located?
Black Pine Circle School is located in the Southwest Berkeley neighborhood of Berkeley, CA. There are 5 other private schools located in Southwest Berkeley.
School Reviews
5 7/24/2015
We are beyond thrilled to be at BPC Our children are absolutely thriving in an academically rich, engaging environment. There are a ton of programs, arts integration and the feeling here is all around, rock solid.
Endorse Black Pine Circle School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
We explore the consequences of marijuana use in private schools, discussing expulsion policies, legal implications, and impacts on college admissions. This Q&A format article provides insights for parents navigating disciplinary actions and offers advice on prevention and support for students.
U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.