For over four decades, Katherine Michiels School (KMS) has served Bay Area children and families. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality education within a nurturing, child-centered environment.
Our mission is to foster each child`s experience of the world so that he or she can blossom to their fullest potential and become a compassionate, autonomous and contributing member of society.
KMS has chosen the humanistic, progressive pedagogies of the Reggio Emilia educational approach and Council in Schools as our educational compass.
Both approaches see the child as a competent and equal partner in the educational journey.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 80 students
- Yearly Tuition: $30,000
- Acceptance rate: 30%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: Dec. 15 / Aug. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Katherine Michiels School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
Year Founded
1976
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
School Motto
Fostering potential and compassion in children.
Student Body
Total Students
80 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
100%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
25%
Average Class Size
12 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Dec. 15 / Aug. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$30,000
Tuition Notes
Preschool 3 year = $2315/month
Preschool 2 year = $2545/month
Infants and Toddlers = $2,625/month
Summer Program Cost
$1,000
Summer Program Cost Notes
Ages 5 to 11 years of age. $1000/session plus $350 for extended care
% on Financial Aid
25%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$10,000
Acceptance Rate
30%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Colleen Mulvey
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
4 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
After School Science Class, De Colores - Spanish Language Program
Arts and Music Programs:
After School Dance Class, After School Music Class
After School Science Class, De Colores - Spanish Language Program
Arts and Music Programs:
After School Dance Class, After School Music Class
School Notes
- Reggio Emilia inspired educational approach & Council in Schools as educational compass.
- De Colores Spanish Culture and Language Program.
- Nature Education supports Science curriculum
- Fieldtrip Fridays support project-based learning approach.
- Summer Camps and afternoon Enrichment Classes offered for KMS students and the public.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Katherine Michiels, Founder, Educator -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Katherine Michiels School cost?
Katherine Michiels School's tuition is approximately $30,000 for private students and $1,000 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Katherine Michiels School?
The acceptance rate of Katherine Michiels School is 30%, which is lower than the national average of 80%. Katherine Michiels School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from Katherine Michiels School?
Katherine Michiels School famous alumni include: Katherine Michiels, Founder, Educator.
Does Katherine Michiels School offer a summer program?
Yes, Katherine Michiels School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What is Katherine Michiels School's ranking?
Katherine Michiels School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Highest percentage of students of color.
When is the application deadline for Katherine Michiels School?
The application deadline for Katherine Michiels School is Dec. 15 / Aug. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Dec. 15 / Aug. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Katherine Michiels School located?
Katherine Michiels School is located in the Mission District neighborhood of San Francisco, CA. There are 4 other private schools located in Mission District.
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The nearest high school to Katherine Michiels School is Ica Cristo Rey (0.1 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is St. James Catholic School (0.1 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Synergy School (0.1 miles away)
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School Reviews
5 10/28/2014
Absolutely the best place to send your child Hands down! I have been sending my children here since they were two and a half years old now they are 10 and 6. The girls absolutely love their school and respect and admire their teachers (especially Randall). I can honestly say that my girls are " in touch" with the environment, the community and most importantly themselves. KMS takes a different approach to teaching and interacting with children fostering confidence and independence in each student. My girls are inquisitive, analytic, emotionally intelligent.
I am a native San Franciscan and a product of tough -old fashioned public schools. I know the difference in quality and individualized focus my children get and I''m glad they are a part of KMS.
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