Prospect Sierra School

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)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-8
  • Enrollment: 494 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $30,820
  • Average class size: 18 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 23 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Prospect Sierra School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1983
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details

Student Body

Total Students
494 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
11%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Prospect Sierra School Student 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. 23 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
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
$17,300
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 $30,820 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. 23 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 23 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).

School Reviews

Endorse Prospect Sierra 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
Endorse this school:

Recent Articles

Leadership, Legacy, and Learning: Pillars of Top Schools
Leadership, Legacy, and Learning: Pillars of Top Schools
We explore the key elements contributing to the success of leading private schools, highlighting the importance of strong leadership, a rich legacy, and a focus on comprehensive learning experiences.
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Discover the essential ingredients that drive academic success and cultivate a thriving school community.
All About JROTC
All About JROTC
Explore the multifaceted advantages of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs in private schools. Delve into how JROTC cultivates leadership, discipline, and citizenship skills among students, contributing to their holistic development and future success.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-8
  • Enrollment: 494 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $30,820
  • Average class size: 18 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 23 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Contra Costa County, CA is $14,760 for elementary schools and $20,316 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Contra Costa County, CA is 82% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Related School Videos

Quick Links