Walden Center & School

Walden Center and School offers child-centered academics that fully incorporate artistic expression within a supportive community of learners.
Walden is a progressive, teacher-run elementary school. Our curriculum combines developmentally appropriate expectations with challenging units of study.
The school's environment enhances each child's academic, emotional, social, creative and physical growth.
The Walden staff supports experiential learning, cooperative endeavor, creativity and appreciation of personal expression within a broader community.
We believe that children learn best in an environment that stimulates an interest in the world around them.

Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-6
  • Enrollment: 76 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $12,970
  • Acceptance rate: 75%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 3 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Walden Center & School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-6
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Classroom teachers modify program strategies to support mild learning differences with the support of a Learning Specialist.
Year Founded
1958
School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students
76 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
40%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Walden Center & School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
90%
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 3 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Payable in 8 installments: a 3 month deposit and $1,297 per month Aug - Feb.
% on Financial Aid
50%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$4,601
Acceptance Rate
75%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Caroline Schnieders
Application URL
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Walden Center & School cost?
Walden Center & School's tuition is approximately $12,970 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Walden Center & School?
The acceptance rate of Walden Center & School is 75%, which is lower than the national average of 80%.
What is Walden Center & School's ranking?
Walden Center & School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Walden Center & School?
The application deadline for Walden Center & School is Jan. 3 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 3 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Walden Center & School located?
Walden Center & School is located in the Central Berkeley neighborhood of Berkeley, CA. There are 3 other private schools located in Central Berkeley.

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Quick Stats (2025)

  • Top Ranked CA School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-6
  • Enrollment: 76 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $12,970
  • Acceptance rate: 75%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 3 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Berkeley, CA is $27,160 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Berkeley, CA is 71% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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