Since 1973, Black Pine Circle School's dedicated and passionate teachers K-8 have nurtured lifelong learners through a Socratic inquiry-based education that emphasizes both rigorous academics and the arts. BPC inspires and fosters students' intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, kindness, and integrity.
BPC's mission is to create a learning community that encourages humanity, empathy, moral depth, cultural understanding, and freedom in intellectual pursuits. Socially, it is our goal to instill mutual respect, compassion, and a sense of belonging among all of our students.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 305 students
- Yearly Tuition: $39,350
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Average class size: 20 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 22 / rolling
- 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
First Day of School
Tue. Aug 26, 2025
Last Day of School
Thu. Jun 4, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
305 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
54%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
46 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
20 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 22 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$39,350
Tuition Notes
K–5: $36,800; 6–8: $41,900
% on Financial Aid
30%
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Greta B. Wong
Admissions Associate
Susana Barajas
Application URL
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
- School Motto: A School of Thought
- School Mascot: Jaguar
- 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 world language. Our program highlights include: * Inquiry-based instruction, emphasizing critical thinking and questioning * Enthusiastic, creative, and knowledgeable teachers * Small classes * K8 classroom music and instrumental program (K-5 strings, orchestra, band, vocal ensembles) * Nationally recognized for math achievement * Hands-on science and gardening program * K8 visual arts * K8 technology integration * K8 Spanish * 68 Mandarin * Renowned drama program and weekly student assemblies * Outdoor education program * Community service program * K8 cross-grade activities * Student support team (K5 & 68 learning specialists and counselors) * Library
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Itamar Moses '91 - Playwright, author, producer and television writer. He gained acclaim for writing the book for the Broadway musical The Band's Visit, receiving the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical. He wrote the play Completeness earning a nomination for the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play. His musical comedy “Nobody Loves You," written with BPC alum Gaby Altar debuted at ACT, San Francisco in 2025.
- Aisha Tyler - Actress and talkshow host, known for playing Andrea Marino in the first season of Ghost Whisperer, and Dr. Tara Lewis in Criminal Minds since 2015.
- Elazar Sontag - James Beard Foundation and National Magazine Award-nominated. Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Black Pine Circle School cost?
Black Pine Circle School's tuition is approximately $39,350 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 80%. Black Pine Circle School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from Black Pine Circle School?
Black Pine Circle School famous alumni include: Itamar Moses '91, Aisha Tyler and Elazar Sontag.
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. 22 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 22 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
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.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Black Pine Circle School also viewed these schools: The Berkeley School, Berkwood Hedge School, The Elmwood Academy, Walden Center & School and Bentley School.
The nearest high school to Black Pine Circle School is Fusion Academy Berkeley (0.1 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is Bpc Upper School (0.1 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Nia House Learning Center (0.2 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Grades: K-8 | 147 students 0.6 miles 1310 University Ave
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 665-8800
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 665-8800
0.6
K-8
147
Berkwood Hedge School
Alternative School
Grades: K-8 | 131 students 1.2 miles 1809 Bancroft Way
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 883-6990
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 883-6990
1.2
K-8
131
Grades: K-8 | 107 students 2.3 miles 2722 Benvenue Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
(510) 549-0605
Berkeley, CA 94705
(510) 549-0605
2.3
K-8
107
Grades: K-6 | 76 students 1.3 miles 2446 Mckinley Ave
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 841-7248
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 841-7248
1.3
K-6
76
Bentley School
(3)
Grades: K-12 | 700 students 3.6 miles 1 Hiller Dr
Oakland, CA 94618
(510) 843-2512
Oakland, CA 94618
(510) 843-2512
3.6
K-12
700
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
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?
Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the Stigma
Finding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
Navigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.
