2021 update
Not accepting applications at this time.
What is an Independent School?
An independent school is a private school, operated as a non-profit. It functions independently with no affiliation to a church or government agency. It is funded solely through tuition, charitable donations and endowment income.
An independent school has the freedom to evaluate its success based on self-selected data appropriate to the population that it serves. It is accountable to the parents and students and to its accrediting agency, rather than the specific curriculum and testing of the public school system.
Independent schools vary greatly in their mission and philosophy, with some more traditional and others more progressive. However, some common elements often associated with independent schools are:
- Individualized attention to each student and various learning styles
- Small class sizes; low student to teacher ratio
- Strong parent participation
- Teachers and administrators are highly responsive to students and families
- Teachers and administrators are committed to the school’s vision
- Engaging environment and extensive extracurricular activities
- Self-direction, self-motivation and responsibility are promoted
- Collaboration, critical thinking and self-expression are fostered
Do I have to reapply for each division?
Students do not need to re-apply from grade to grade. For students entering the 9th grade program (Upper School), preference is given to students currently enrolled in our Middle School program.
Do siblings and Alumni children have preference in the admission process?
Yes, however they must still be qualified through our admissions process, which includes a review of prior grades, behavior and teacher recommendations.
Educational Testing
Garden Street Academy conducts SAT10 testing in grades 4-8, the PSAT in grades 9-11, and the SAT in grades 11-12.
What does your College Counseling program offer?
See more about our College Counseling services.
Is there a uniform or dress code?
No, except that students may not wear anything that promotes drugs, alcohol or inappropriate activities.
What opportunities are there for parental involvement?
Parents are required to volunteer 40 hours per year, and there are a myriad of opportunities to fulfill that requirement.
What is the average class size?
Average of 15-20 students
What is the facilitator/student ratio?
In K-5 classes, we have a credentialed teacher as well as an associate teacher, with an approximate ratio of 1:10. In middle school, the ratio varies from 1:10 to 1:20 depending on the subject. In high school, the ratio is approximately 1:15.
Do we have grades?
We do not have grades for K-8, but you will be given a descriptive review twice a year, as well as student-led conferences twice a year.
What specialists do you have?
- Technology
- Physical Education
- Drama
- Music
- Dance
- Art
- Robotics/Coding
What is our philosophy on homework?
Our homework is a meaningful practice of what they have learned in the classroom.
Where do our graduates go?
Our graduates from Garden Street Academy have been accepted to many colleges and universities in California and out of state, including:
- Bard College
- UC Santa Barbara
- UC Berkeley
- UCLA
- University of San Fransisco
- Cal Arts
- Parsons
- Cal Lutheran
- Westmont
Here’s a complete list of college acceptances.
What sports do we have?
- Boys & Girls Cross Country
- Girls & Boys Volleyball
- Boys & Girls Basketball
- Boys & Girls Track & Field
- Coed Flag Football, Soccer