Age 2 - 14
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Welcome to Hilldale School, where bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional children thrive
Students rise to challenge through Hilldale’s accelerated curriculum, designed to support bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners from Preschool to Eighth Grade.
Our elementary school in Daly City is accredited by the National Independent Private School Association - NIPSA, known for its commitment to quality and growth in private education.
Students learn English through the science of reading while developing Spanish from Kindergarten. They explore Latin and Greek roots to deepen their understanding of language, and engage with Mandarin and Russian, growing into true multilingual learners.
Hilldale students build resilience, empathy, and independence through collaboration, reflective learning, and self-leadership, preparing them to navigate challenges at every step.
Each student at Hilldale School is continuously supported through subject-level assessments and teacher guidance ensuring they master key concepts and grow confidently beyond grade level.
Students take initiative in school leadership roles and community activities where they grow as responsible, confident individuals with a strong sense of purpose.
Students start early or stay late with nurturing care that supports busy families, offering homework help, enrichment workshops, and purposeful time to connect with peers.
Students build deep understanding with subject-specialist teachers who personalize learning, inspire, challenge and guide them to reach beyond their potential.
Students at Hilldale connect with peers across cultures through global projects, international studies, and Spanish language learning. Through rich studies in world history and geography, students gain perspective and confidence to engage meaningfully.
Hilldale students collaborate with peers around the world through global skill-building programs and learning opportunities as part of the International Schools Partnership network.
Explore Hilldale's accelerated curriculum with personalized attention and supportive learning.
Early Learning Academy
Preschool
Young learners begin their journey in nurturing Early Learning Academy with a curriculum designed to "feed the brain" through fun, engaging activities, and experiential learning. Building early skills through purposeful play prepares students for success in Hilldale’s accelerated Kindergarten.
Primary Grades
Kindergarten to Second Grade Bright and gifted students at Hilldale explore reading, writing, STEAM, ethics, and Spanish through hands-on projects, building empathy and goal-setting skills, with learning extended through local trips and national competitions.
Elementary Grades
Third to Fifth Grades
Learners grow into responsible, independent thinkers as they explore ethics, the digital world, and global cultures. Developing self-regulation skills, Hilldale students rise to challenges through multilingual learning, showcasing their talents in national competitions and STEAM fairs.
Middle School
Sixth to Eighth Grades
Students at Hilldale take charge of their learning journey by exploring unique interests through diverse electives and building civic responsibility. As multilingual global citizens, they grow as confident leaders, ready to thrive in high school and beyond.
Our learning pillars enhance every student's experience - providing structure, opportunity and the support they need to grow. As part of International Schools Partnership, our students benefit from a global network committed to the highest standards of learning.
Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.
Gain life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.
Develop proficiency in multiple world languages, while being supported in home or first languages.
Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.
Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.
We are clear about the knowledge and skills students need to succeed academically. Beyond that, our school is equipped with innovative curricula, a research-backed learning approach and high-impact assessment tools, all designed to deepen each student’s understanding.
We follow a learning improvement framework which monitors performance against selected criteria proven to best support student learning. This helps us enhance our approach to have the greatest impact on students’ success.
We believe every student should develop the skills to reflect, adapt and grow with confidence - skills that go beyond academics and prepare them for life.
Backed by Cambridge University through Camtree, International Schools Partnership’s Life Competencies framework ensures students gain the essential skills to make informed decisions, build strong relationships and thrive in their ever-changing world.
These skills are embedded throughout the learning experience, ensuring that every student actively develops the mindset and capabilities needed to succeed - now and in the future.
International learning is part of our schools’ DNA. Our students are encouraged to explore a range of world languages.
They strengthen their home or first language while learning at least one world language - ensuring they can communicate, collaborate and thrive in global environments.
This approach supports academic progress and prepares students for learning, careers and leadership in an interconnected world.
As part of International Schools Partnership, students take part in international learning opportunities that challenge thinking, spark curiosity and build global connections.Whether debating world issues at Model United Nations, competing in international chess tournaments, or collaborating on creative projects, every experience encourages students to ask big questions, reflect on their progress and make confident decisions.
These opportunities bring students together across countries and cultures, helping them think independently, communicate effectively and adapt to new challenges - skills they will use for life.
Future Pathways is a personalised programme that helps students explore opportunities, make informed decisions and confidently move towards university or careers.
With specialist guidance and industry connections, students gain valuable insights, refine their goals and access opportunities aligned with their ambitions.
Through exclusive scholarships, they also have unique opportunities to study with some of the world’s most renowned institutions, gaining skills for emerging careers and industries globally.
Our admission journey is simple and personalized, with our team guiding you every step of the way to ensure the best fit for your child within our community.
Sign up for a tour, attend an Open House or complete our inquiry form to learn more about Hilldale School.
Applications are accepted year-round. Complete the application online and request a recommendation form from your child’s current teacher. Submit the $100 application fee via check made payable to Hilldale School.
Provide transcripts for First to Eighth Grades and any outside testing or evaluation reports.
After reviewing the application, the admissions team will schedule a playdate or classroom visit along with an academic assessment for your child.
The parent interview is an opportunity for us to get to know your family, learn more about your child, and answer any questions you may have about Hilldale School.
Once accepted, sign and return your acceptance letter and enrollment contract to complete the process.
Conveniently located near our school, Early Learning Academy prepares children for a bright future, supporting a smooth transition into Hilldale School. We welcome new families year-round, subject to availability.
Schedule a visit to explore our school and learning environment. To book a tour, please call us using the contact details available on our Contact us page.
Complete the registration form and pay the one-time, new student $150 registration fee.
Return all state and school forms before or on your child’s first day. Health forms may be submitted 7 days of your child's start date.
September 1, 2025
Join us for Hilldale School’s Open House, where prospective families can discover what makes our school exceptional.
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At Hilldale School, our community is what makes us unique. Hear from students, staff, and families about what makes our environment so special.
Fair is not equal
We believe that fair is not always equal. Every child’s needs are unique, and we meet them with care. We celebrate curiosity, critical thinking, and the joy of learning. Here, being smart is cool, and students are proud to share their knowledge.
Sasha Clayton
Head of School
A Well-rounded education
At Hilldale, our son grew into an independent, confident learner. Thanks to Hilldale’s inspiring teachers and nurturing environment, our son thrived academically and personally.
Ira & Jaydeep 2023
Parents
Citizens of the world
Hilldale helped our kids grow in every way, strong academics, arts, values, and confidence. We’ve seen them blossom into curious, kind, and capable young people.
Rakesh Jotwani
Parent
Love of learning
Hilldale gave our kids a love of learning, confidence in public speaking, strong friendships, and a moral compass. It’s truly a hidden gem we’re grateful to have found.
Irene & Ken
Rising to the challenge
Watching our kids blossom at Hilldale has been pure joy. They’ve found confidence, kindness, curiosity, and a second home where they are truly seen and supported.
Alex Laussu
Community
We balance academic rigor with a love of learning through one-on-one support, creativity, and community. Our small classes, caring staff, and strong relationships help every student thrive and reach their fullest potential.
Kim Valladares 6th Grade
Teacher
Discover a K-8 school where bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional kids thrive, embracing every challenge at Hilldale.
