Progressive K-6 school in Berkeley with small classes, learning specialists, and inclusive approach to student development
Walden Center & School is a progressive K-6 elementary school in Berkeley, CA that serves students with mild learning differences alongside typically developing peers. The school employs a Learning Specialist who works with classroom teachers to modify instruction and support strategies, helping students with learning disabilities and other mild educational needs access a developmentally appropriate curriculum within small, inclusive classroom settings.
The school's child-centered approach emphasizes experiential learning, creativity, and personal expression as core to how all children learn best. With an average class size of just 10 students and 90% of faculty holding advanced degrees, Walden provides individualized attention within a supportive community. The curriculum combines challenging units of study with artistic expression and cooperative learning, designed to support each child's academic, emotional, social, creative, and physical growth.
Walden admits students on a rolling basis with an acceptance rate of 75%. Annual tuition is $12,970 (paid in 8 installments), and 50% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $4,601. Contact Admissions Director Caroline Schnieders at (510) 841-7248 or visit waldencenterschool.org to learn more about the application process and school community.
At a Glance
GradesKindergarten-6
Students76
Class Size10:1 ratio
Tuition$12,970
Fin. Aid50% receive aid
Est.1958
DeadlineJan. 3 / rolling
Accreditation & Memberships
National Association for the Education of Young Children
School Information
| Year Founded | 1958 |
| Yearly Tuition Cost | $12,970 |
| Tuition Notes | Payable in 8 installments: a 3 month deposit and $1,297 per month Aug - Feb. |
| Total Students | 76 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 8 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 90 |
| Average Class Size | 10 |
| Grades Offered | Kindergarten-6 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Director | Caroline Schnieders |
| Admission Deadline | Jan. 3 / rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 75 |
| Percent on Financial Aid | 50 |
| Average Financial Aid Grant | $4,601 |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 40 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference Programs
Learning Programs Supported
Classroom teachers modify program strategies to support mild learning differences with the support of a Learning Specialist.
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | National Association for the Education of Young Children |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | www.waldencenterschool.org/events-community/calendar |
Contact the school
(510) 841-72482446 Mckinley Ave, Berkeley, California 94703
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