Education and schools in San Francisco reflect the city’s diverse and inclusive character. Public schools offer a wide range of programs, and parents also have access to numerous private institutions. Among these are international schools that provide foreign curricula and language immersion options, giving parents flexibility in choosing the right educational path for their children.
Public schools in San Francisco
Unlike most school districts in America, children in San Francisco do not necessarily attend public schools based on their residential address. The city tries to maintain even demographics in each school based on income, race, and language.
Despite these attempts at equalising schools, some have much higher test scores than others. Parents can choose a number of preferred schools in San Francisco, and the school board assigns their child to one of them. Most of the time, children can attend a school from among their top choices. For this reason, it is vital that parents research the best options available when selecting a school for their child.
Public schooling is free of charge, though after-school care costs extra.
Useful links
Private schools in San Francisco
Many new arrivals opt to send their children to one of the many private schools in San Francisco. Some of these independent schools are highly selective and require children to attend interviews or write entry exams. As this process can take some time, preparations should be made as far in advance as possible. Parents should begin their search for a school as soon as they are able, and it is recommended that they do so far in advance of the move.
Private education is expensive in San Francisco, though scholarships may be available to help finance children's private schooling. The standards of private schools are generally high, making them a compelling choice for those seeking an education grounded in alternative principles or religious values.
Useful links
International schools in San Francisco
International schools in San Francisco are popular with expats as they can accommodate students who have previously studied a different curriculum back home. This includes schools offering French, Japanese, and Chinese education. Teaching is typically in the language of the school's country of origin, so expats can be taught in their home language.
Expat parents favour international schools because they can provide a sense of continuity and familiarity. They also ensure that children keep up with their peers back home and earn the same certification in case they return. This is especially important for expat families who don't intend to settle in San Francisco permanently.
International Schools in San Francisco
Homeschooling in San Francisco
Homeschooling is legal in the state of California, and for the most part, parents are free to conduct their child's education as they wish. The law requires that all children be given some form of schooling from ages 6 to 18.
The Department of Education regards homeschooling as a form of private schooling. Parents will need to complete the Private School Affidavit (PSA) annually to continue homeschooling their children.
Generally speaking, the state doesn't take a hands-on approach to homeschooling. It advises parents looking to homeschool their children to tap into non-governmental resources such as local homeschooling organisations.
Special educational needs in San Francisco
Children with special educational needs are well provided for in San Francisco, as there are a number of resources available.
If parents with children in the public school system think their children may have special educational needs, they should notify the school. An evaluation will be carried out to determine eligibility. If declared eligible for special education services, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is drawn up by a specialist team. Parents are included in this specialist team and therefore have input into planning the way forward.
A child's IEP is reviewed at least once a year, and any child with a disability is completely re-evaluated at least once every three years to ensure that current interventions remain appropriate.
When it comes to private schools, some have more robust special-needs departments than others, so it's worthwhile taking this into account when picking a school. If a private school offers a special-needs programme, it may come at an extra cost on top of tuition.
Useful links
Tutors in San Francisco
Tutoring services are easy to find in San Francisco. A wide range of subjects and grade levels is catered for. It isn't uncommon for older students facing their final exams to enlist the help of a tutor to ensure that they are fully prepared.
For expats, tutors can be helpful in areas such as English-language development, maintenance of home language skills, and getting up to speed on a new curriculum.