Prospect Sierra students are passionate about learning. Our exceptional teachers inspire students to seek deep, meaningful understanding; to develop strong academic skills; and to become creative and independent thinkers.
Prospect Sierra cultivates compassion, fairness, respect, and individuality within a community that celebrates diversity, authenticity, and service.
Prospect Sierra School embodies several key assumptions in philosophy and daily practice: that learning is the young person's pathway to personal growth; that school should be both challenging and joyous; that school is a community through which students, teachers and parents develop trust, demonstrate cooperation, show respect, and acquire an understanding of the rights and needs of others; and that diversity, in its many human forms, brings quality and strength to our welcoming and inclusive school.
The school also believes that positive expectations and relationship-based teaching are essential to the learning process.
We intend that our students maintain a lifelong love of learning; to become reflective, critical thinkers; and to become responsible citizens of the global community.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 458 students
- Yearly Tuition: $34,300
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 24 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Prospect Sierra School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1983
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
458 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
63%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
94 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
44%
Average Class Size
18 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 24 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$34,300
Tuition Notes
There is a generous flexible tuition program Based on family need. Approximately 33% of our students use our flexible tuition program.
% on Financial Aid
33%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$19,300
Admissions Director
Renée Thompson
Admissions Associate
Amy Sullivan - Grades 5-8
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
School Notes
The educational program at Prospect Sierra strongly emphasizes
an integrated curriculum based on a framework of established
themes. Mathematics, literature, writing, art, music, science,
Spanish, social studies, service learning, physical education, and
technology are incorporated into a positive experience for each
student. The faculty, librarians, and staff work closely together
to connect the subject matter in meaningful ways.The project-based
curriculum is designed to promote understanding and thoughtfulness.
Students are asked to think deeply and reflectively about facts,
ideas, and experiences in an increasingly diverse society. They are
encouraged to make connections between their learning at school and
their growing awareness of the outside world.
- Prospect Sierra was named model "School of the Future" by the National Association of Independent Schools.
- Prospect Sierra is a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.
- Prospect Sierra co-hosted a TEDx conference on Compassion in partnership with the Greater Good Science Center of UC Berkeley.
- Prospect Sierra is an independent co-ed school located in El Cerrito. Two campuses, elementary (grades TK-4) and middle school (grades 5-8) create the feel of a small school while providing the resources of a large one.
- Both campuses have excellent grounds and facilities. New buildings at each campus include expansive libraries, science labs, performing and fine arts buildings.
- Service learning is integral to the curriculum kindergarten through grade 8.
- 41% of our students come from Berkeley, and students come to Prospect Sierra School from as far south as Alameda and as far north as Fairfield.
- School shuttle service is available from Oakland and through Berkeley.
- There is an excellent after school program as well as enrichment classes and sports until 6:00 PM. Please visit our website, www.prospectsierra.org for further information.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Prospect Sierra School cost?
Prospect Sierra School's tuition is approximately $34,300 for private students.
Does Prospect Sierra School offer a summer program?
Yes, Prospect Sierra School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Prospect Sierra School offer?
Prospect Sierra School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Flag Football, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Prospect Sierra School's ranking?
Prospect Sierra School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Prospect Sierra School?
The application deadline for Prospect Sierra School is Jan. 24 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 24 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
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