Welcome to Hilldale School, where bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional children thrive

Not every child learns at the same rate—and at Hilldale, some of us are ready for more: 
With an accelerated curriculum designed to promote critical thinking, students who need more challenge are afforded it.                                          
Teaching is guided by ongoing assessments and flexible grouping, allowing students to be seen and their needs to be met.  Instruction adjusts to reflect each child’s needs so learning stays appropriately challenging and engaging.

Students work above grade level, while still receiving support where needed. This balance helps children build confidence without feeling overwhelmed or held back. 

Gifted learners are asynchronous learners, and Hilldale is ready to support you.


Challenged to Think. Prepared to Lead.
Book a school visit today.

Choose Hilldale Elementary School in Daly City

Why choose Hilldale School?

Here’s why our families choose to be part of our community.

  • A home for bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners

    A home for bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners

    Bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional students flourish at Hilldale, where learning is personalized to match their readiness, not their age. In a safe and supportive environment that honors each child’s unique brain, students rise to challenges, grow in confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

  • Tailored learning for success

    Tailored learning for success

    Every student receives focused attention and learns in flexible groups with a 1:9 teacher-student ratio in Kindergarten to Second Grade and 1:18 from Third to Eighth Grade, tailored to their needs. Progress is closely tracked through regular assessments. Students take the DIBELS test three times a year, measured against benchmarks for the year ahead, often surpassing advanced grade-level expectations.

  • Full, rich accelerated curricula

    Full, rich accelerated curricula

    Hilldale students from day one, engage in learning that goes beyond state standards, diving into a curriculum that accelerates their academic journey by at least a year. Our approach combines proven teaching methods with innovative strategies, ensuring students are prepared for success beyond their grade level. With opportunities for competitions, projects, and a rich blend of subjects, students receive a well-rounded education that fuels their curiosity and growth.

  • Holistic life skills

    Holistic life skills

    Learners at every stage develop well-rounded life skills and they learn to understand themselves, connect with others, and confidently rise to the challenge. Personal responsibility and global citizenship are emphasized in both curriculum and practice, helping students build empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence that support meaningful relationships and a lifelong sense of wellbeing.

  • Commitment to social-emotional growth

    Commitment to social-emotional growth

    Students blossom into kind, confident learners with social-emotional development woven into every moment. With targeted support, our gifted learners build resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence, fostering the confidence, empathy, and strong sense of self which are needed to navigate the world. Classes are carefully designed to nurture social-emotional growth at each student's pace, ensuring alignment with their unique developmental needs.

  • Diverse, close-knit community

    Diverse, close-knit community

    Students thrive in a community that celebrates diversity, with representation from over 20 countries. By exploring and celebrating different cultures through special events and activities, they foster respect and a strong sense of belonging. The middle school House Program further strengthens inclusion by connecting students across grades through shared goals, friendly competition, and teamwork. This is a place where every voice is heard and everyone feels valued.

  • Raising leaders of the future

    Raising leaders of the future

    Students develops confidence in a structured environment with extended care programs, sports, language classes, and a variety of extracurricular clubs and competitions. Through these opportunities, students discover their passions, develop leadership skills, and rise to every challenge, preparing them confidently for the future.

  • Expanding opportunities

    Expanding opportunities

    Students have numerous opportunities to grow beyond the classroom. Through a variety of school trips, they explore history, nature, and diverse cultures, gaining hands-on experiences that deepen their learning. These trips help children build independence, spark curiosity, and foster a sense of global awareness. Whether through outdoor adventures or immersive cultural visits, students develop a broader perspective and valuable life skills that shape their future.

  • Teachers who inspire and guide

    Teachers who inspire and guide

    Students gain a global outlook, nurtured by trained educators who bring both expertise and empathy. As subject matter experts and passionate mentors, they understand the unique needs of bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners. Through personalized support, they inspire curiosity and a love of learning, creating a nurturing environment where students can explore, grow, and become the best version of themselves.

Learning journey

Explore Hilldale's accelerated curriculum with personalized attention and supportive learning.

What makes us special?

At Hilldale School, our community is what makes us unique. Hear from students, staff, and families about what makes our environment so special.

Sasha Clayton

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

Meet our team
Ira & Jaydeep 2023

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

Rakesh Jotwani

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

Irene & Ken

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

Parents

Alex Laussu

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

Parent

Kim Valladares 6th Grade

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

Sasha Clayton

Head of School

Ira & Jaydeep 2023

Parents

Rakesh Jotwani

Parent

Irene & Ken

Parents

Alex Laussu

Parent

Kim Valladares 6th Grade

Teacher

Sasha Clayton

Head of School

Ira & Jaydeep 2023

Parents

Rakesh Jotwani

Parent

Irene & Ken

Parents

Alex Laussu

Parent

Kim Valladares 6th Grade

Teacher

Hilldale School

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