We completed the full application process with Sonder Creek Academy, including paying the $100…read moreapplication fee. Because we applied a bit late, we were placed on the waitlist, which we completely understood. What was disappointing was the total lack of follow-up after that point. Despite reaching out directly to the admissions officer to inquire about our waitlist status, we never received a response -- not even a simple notification that a spot was no longer available. When a family pays a $100 application fee, there is a reasonable expectation of communication and transparency throughout the process. To add to the frustration, we continued to receive marketing emails about summer programs despite never hearing back about our child's application. The disconnect between their marketing outreach and their admissions communication was striking. We can't speak to the school itself, but based solely on the application experience, the lack of follow-through left a poor impression.

Sonder Creek has absolutely been the best school for my child. We were looking at a wide variety of…read moreschools (public, non religious private, and religious private) to see what would be the best fit and I can tell you from the moment we reached out with interest, to the tour, to our child having his first 1/2 day visit there, we knew this was his school.  Staff is knowledgeable and knows my child to a depth that truly sets him up for success. It also makes me feel comfortable that they are doing everything in their power to help my child succeed and thrive. I love that they allow him to excel academically (even past his grade level) as well as support him with challenging subjects (teachers stay current with where he's at and are skilled at providing support very quickly if the child needs it while also keeping parents in the loop so we can help when needed too) while allowing him to stay with his grade level of peers so he's not only being cultivated in the classroom, but also learning to be social amongst peers his age. A big concern of mine was coming out of covid, my child wanted to so desperately make friends, but I know sometimes kids show no mercy. At Sonder Creek, overall it's been way over my expectations. Very involved parents, attentive staff that keeps you in the loop, and students who are open to connecting to one another.  My child has loved the STEM programs at school (especially the after school robotics class) as well as learning both Mandrin and Spanish (coming from an English speaking household, it's been amazing seeing him now speak another language which we will continue to encourage moving forward). He also is asking to do the after school Art program and this is coming from a child who started off barely wanting to hold a pencil correctly.  The community here is so special and you get to see that when everyone comes together. This was our first year we participated in Trunk or Treat with his school and it was such a blast; we will be doing it again next year. The international potluck is a family favorite to attend (combo of incredible foods from all over as well as mini performances from the language programs with the students is so darn adorable) and the Christmas Concert is absolutely precious. Sonder Creek is our child's school and we cannot recommend it enough.

Our pre school daughter goes here and she loves it. She's grown in all aspects including her faith,…read morewhich has been a joy to see. It's a loving environment and we are very happy to have here at CCCS.

This school has been so perfect for our son! He transferred sophomore year and immediately made…read morefriends and felt welcomed. The class sizes are small so the kids get a lot of individual attention. Teachers actually try and get to know the kids and make a connection, which has been wonderful for him as a newcomer. We wish we had found it sooner, it's such a hidden gem!

It's not really that good the teachers got worse and there's a lot of violence and nobody follows…read morethe rules. The teachers can be hypocritical sometimes.

Mt. Diablo elementary & high schools range from great to terrible. Middle schools, Sequoia is the…read moreonly good one. Sequoia gets students from the elementary school next door and from Monte Gardens. So the girl kept the friends she made at Monte Gardens, and made new friends. Academics is not as high as Monte Gardens. The girl was struggling with math. Now she's nearly at grade level, and her vocabulary and ability to communicate verbally has increased, thanks to her time at Sequoia. Teachers include those who want the students to learn a lot and are effective, to those who are holding down a long-time job, to those who, let's just say they have this '60s mindset of wanting to change the world. Administration invites parents to be involved; a group of us met with the principal once a month, and these were valuable times. A full range of programs were available: scholastic, music, languages, theater arts. I wrote "were available" on purpose. Things changed a lot when the girl was halfway through, and not for the better. Remember 2020, when the govt goons shut down society, using an easily-treated bug as an excuse? Schools were hit harder than most. And while private schools worked to get back to normal, Mt. Diablo school kids were not in a classroom for13 full months. And when they could go back, it was for only 4 hours/week, they were required to wear oxygen blockers, and they were ordered to stay away from their classmates. No wonder depression is so high among kids in this area. The girl did learn things, but the normal well-rounded school experience teaches life lessons that staring at a computer screen cannot teach. From all I can see, the school district's social experiments will continue for years and years, and I expect more shutdowns. Sequoia's strengths were shut down for 1-1/2 years, and I don't see them coming back any time soon. One result is that the girl will be going to a different high school. I'm writing this during our move to a different state. California in general, and specifically the Bay Area, has become an unacceptable place to raise kids. It's not that I don't recommend Sequoia; I can't recommend *any* schools in the Land of Fruits and Nuts. If it wasn't for the collapse of the school system, Sequoia would be a good school, as long as you're involved in your kid's education. Not anymore.

Considering I've been going for 14 years, it's been an experience. Pleasant Hill Adventist Academy…read morehas had its ups and downs throughout the year. When the staff announces that "we are all one family," believe them. Students are welcoming of new friends. Out of my 14 years of attending, Bullying cases are never seen. Everyone is extremely kind, including teachers. Teachers are willing to sit with you to help you raise your grades. Something about PHAA is that the homework has never been overwhelming. Classrooms are filled with laughter, no matter the grade. From projects to essays, students have a sense of unity to make their learning experience fun. Aside from academics, the sports program is the cherry on top of PHAA. The boys' and girls' volleyball teams are undefeated. Boys and Girls basketball put in the work. The school showcases its accomplishments in the upstairs trophy case! Students go on away games for all sports, bringing back win after win. The music program is more than amazing. Singing in different churches and occasionally traveling to praise God. The school is faith-based. Every Friday, students host a chapel where they sing and praise God. Students are able to speak a few words or have special speakers as well. The best thing about PHAA is traveling. Students have been able to go to Washington, D.C., and recently went to New York! Students are able to expand their minds and have a flexible schedule. Not just putting their heads in a book, but also traveling! There are so many leadership opportunities to prepare you for college. Starting from SA positions, the National Honor Society, and the class government. On campus, we have a beautiful field and a great playground for elementary school. The campus is filled with trees, flowers, and a wonderful structure in front of the high school. Halls aren't just filled with lockers, but with artwork and the laughter of students. The gym is big in size and a great place to enjoy sports. Tuition could be intimidating, however its worth it! Pleasant Hill is very welcoming to all. Not just the school, but the church as well.

I am currently a senior at PHAA and I've been attending this school since the 1st grade. This…read moreschool has pushed me to grow in my relationship with Christ, and pushed me academically towards success. This school's facilities are well-kept with a huge gym, beautiful bathrooms, and awesome, well-sized classrooms. The one-on-one interactions with teachers have really helped my academic career move faster than it would at a public school. The friendships that I have made over the past 12 years are friendships that I will cherish for the rest of my life. My class feels like a family, everyone I have known since elementary school and I believe that I wouldn't have made these connections if I had attended a public school. Our school also gives opportunities that other schools wouldn't give, this school year alone we have gone to Albion which is a isolated area in the mountains near Mendocino CA, went to New England (New York, Boston, and Philedelphia), and we are going to Oahu for our Senior Class trip. There are so many opportunities for leadership options as well, because of our small school size students can hold multiple leadership roles at the same time, you can be Yearbook Editor, Class President, Sports Team Captain, Orchestra First Chair, and Praise Team Director at the same time! Coming to our school is a good opportunity if you want to get experience, make close friends, and grow your relationship closer to Christ! We hope to see you soon!

We had high hopes for North Creek Academy, but the TK assessment process was incredibly…read morefrustrating. Expecting 4-year-olds to already be writing and recognizing letters feels academically misplaced for a Transitional Kindergarten level. What's worse is the inconsistency--it's clear the "rules" don't apply to everyone, as kids who can't yet write their names are accepted while the process remains a "black box" for everyone else. It feels more like a biased "who you know" system than a transparent evaluation of a child's readiness. We also noticed during our tour that the school's diversity is very low. In today's world, we want our children to learn in an environment that reflects the broader community, and we didn't see that here. Definitely something to consider if transparency and inclusion are priorities for your family.

I would like to add a star and acknowledge all the wonderful members of the NorthCreek community…read morefor contacting me to let me know that Esther McClellan's appalling behavior does not reflect the community as a whole. Their kindness means a great deal as we had just moved to the area and Esther's gang really affected us negatively. Also, many have come forward with their own stories of their children being treated poorly by Esther. I'm collecting these stories anonymously and plan to file a complaint. If you have a story about Esther that you'd like to share anonymously, please contact me privately. Many thanks, Christine Patellaro

We've been a Seven Hills family for over five years, and I truly can't speak highly enough of this…read moreincredible school. Our daughter started in 4th grade and is now thriving in 8th; our son began in Kindergarten and is currently in 4th, and both of them have grown in such distinct, beautiful ways thanks to this school's Whole Child approach. What stands out most is how deeply seen and known my kids are. Teachers and faculty don't just know their names, they know their learning styles, personalities, quirks, and strengths. There's a genuine warmth and intentionality that permeates every interaction, from the classroom to the carline. Our daughter was always more cautious and slow to warm up (nothing wrong with that!), but over time, Seven Hills helped her find her voice. She's now confidently volunteering for public speaking opportunities and participating in leadership roles like the Student Ambassador program. The Middle School program has been phenomenal and it's given her a strong academic foundation and the confidence to advocate for herself. One of her favorite subjects has been science, thanks to their incredible Middle School lab and interactive curriculum. She'll often tell us about the experiments they're doing, and it's clear she's not just learning science, she's experiencing it. One of our favorite traditions is the Buddies Program, where older and younger students are paired up for the year (think: 4th graders with Kindergartners). Watching my kids grow into both the mentee and the mentor role has been incredibly touching. They read together, do projects, and genuinely form bonds that span grades and years. We also love the family-friendly events that bring everyone together, from community dinners to beginning-of-year teacher phone calls. These touch points make us, as parents, feel like we're part of something bigger, not just dropping our kids off, but truly participating in their educational journey. The curriculum is rich and thoughtfully designed. My daughter learned about World War II in history class -- and then walked through the beaches of Normandy during the school's immersive Europe trip. It's the kind of education that sticks for a lifetime. The arts are equally valued: my son is learning ukulele in 4th grade, and my daughter is playing guitar in 8th. The annual plays, music programs, and outdoor educational trips -- it's all there. My only complaint? I just wish Seven Hills went through 12th grade. The transition out is going to be tough, not because she isn't ready, but because the bar has been set so high. After five years of academic growth, rich leadership experiences, and meaningful social-emotional development, my daughter is heading into high school capable, and deeply grounded. Honestly, I'd keep my kids here forever if I could, but alas, even magical places like this have to end at 8th grade!

Bad experience with this school. Unprofessional admission staff do not waste your time and money…read moreon this school especially for Asian Family. Due to time conflict, I send an email to request a different time, never received a response. The person over Zoom is not a pleasant person to talk with

Our child began attending Concordia in kindergarten and four years later, they are thriving!…read moreConcordia is everything we could hope for in a school and a community. The teachers are caring and invested. The Montessori curriculum gives the child ownership and responsibility for their own learning with guidance from the teachers, while allowing room for playful curiosity. The school also places a focus on social responsibility, so my child isn't just getting an academic education but a social education as well: learning personal responsibility, learning to interact with mixed age groups, to problem-solve through conflict resolution, and to contribute through acts of kindness at school and at home. The school is delightfully "dumb" in that devices and online learning are not a part of the lower grade levels. The kids are taught cursive and write out most of their works. Homework is not introduced until the third grade level. And I love that kids have the option to work in the way that suits them best, whether that's on the floor, sitting at a desk, or standing at a table. They can work with a friend, or work alone in the quiet room to aid focus. The school understands that every kid's learning process is a little different and helps set the kids up for success. We feel so fortunate to have found this school that is so caring and inclusive of families of all races, ethnicities, gender identity, family structure, and/or socioeconomic status. In addition to feeling like the right learning environment for our child, we are so grateful to have found this community and be welcomed into it. We will be so sorry to leave after 6th grade!

My kids have been attending this school since 2017 and I can honestly say that Concordia is a…read morespecial place. We looked at many preschools before deciding to enroll at Concordia and we haven't looked back. From preschool all the way to sixth grade, this is a special place where the teachers and staff care about each and every child's academic and social development. It really feels like being part of a big family. The school just celebrated their 50th anniversary - they have been around so long that my husband went to the school when he was a kid! Its great to be a part of a long-standing community. Who knows, maybe my grandkids will go here some day!

Our son attended KidTime and we are so happy we found this school! I have chatted with so many…read moreparents and left so many rave reviews for the school online when parents shared they are looking for a preschool or a better fit for their child. We left a previous school and were looking for an environment where our son could thrive, and after touring with the director, Sydney, we knew we had found just the right fit. Our old preschool, a Montessori-style school, didn't do any TK curriculum, so we were worried he wouldn't be as prepared for Kindergarten. Our son missed the cutoff for public TK, so we knew we needed to find a better fit for him. Plus, our previous school wasn't accommodating for our active little dude. KidTime wasn't concerned at all when I mentioned our son wouldn't sit for circle time or stay focused during 'work time'. Instead of concern, we were met with open arms! The school meets the children where they're at! There's no need to hide any problems your child may be having. The school will not only work with you, but they will take the time and care to help your child and your family with any issues. There are no expectations for a child to meet a cookie-cutter mold. Your child will be embraced! The school is very inclusive! I was told, he sounds perfectly at his age level. This is truly refreshing to hear when you're leaving a school that isn't welcoming. The school has a massive backyard with a garden, chickens, and the biggest sandbox you've ever seen, with a water play area as well. There's plenty of shade and trees as well. The school will also apply sunscreen (they supply it, or you are welcome to bring your own). The school prepares fresh meals for the children, which after sending our son to school that didn't; this is such an amazing aspect! It saved our family so much time and hassle. Our son is a great eater, but for children who arent; it's so helpful to have the children all eating the same meal together. A lot of parents have said this helped their picky eaters embrace new foods. Plus, there's onsite water fountains, so we didn't even need to bring a water bottle. Again, you really appreciate this when you realize you don't need to wash a water bottle daily. The staff are so kind and warm! They do really fun activities with the children. Each week they cover a new theme and do activities related to the theme including STEM, art, math, etc. Our son learned about the earth's rotation and how time worked, learned his phonics, etc. Their teaching style is all play-based; at first, I didn't really know what that meant. I thought it was just open play, but it's not. They play a lot of games and do a lot of hands on learning, so they learn through play. It's truly wonderful! They also have a lot of community events, like a Thanksgiving meal where the children prepare all of the dishes, and families are welcome to come and eat together. Plus, they host Trick or Treating, a very lively Cinco de Mayo party, a family camping trip, and many more! Families are also welcome to come at pick up and play with their kids in the backyard! This is so different from a lot of other schools. This is so fun because you can see your child at play! You can join in and meet other families. We're happy our baby will go here as well, and this time for the full experience, as our son joined only joined for one year. They even welcome back alumni for their fun Cinco de Mayo party! Only downside, that they will openly tell you during your tour, children are allowed to be children...meaning they are allowed to get very messy! When I first toured with my baby, I didn't think this would be a good fit for him because he didn't like to be messy; but when he joined later, it wasn't a problem. Some kids do get wildly messy, but our child never did. Just know, that they use all washable materials, so any stain, I was easily able to get out. However, it's very possible, your child might be covered head to toe blue when you go to pick them up! I've seen a mini Smurf there at pickup!

Truly a child led program with amazing teachers and staff. The school has a huge play area for the…read morekids to explore and just be kids.

We have been really happy with our experience at St. Catherine of Siena School. The sense of…read morecommunity is strong and welcoming, and the teachers truly care about their students. Both of our children have thrived under their guidance and instruction academically, socially, and emotionally. It's clear that the staff is dedicated to helping each child grow and feel supported. Our kids are happy going to school here and that's what is most important. We're very grateful to be part of this school and would absolutely recommend St. Catherine of Siena to families looking for a nurturing, high-quality education.

St. Catherine of Siena School truly feels like home. Our family has met so many wonderful people,…read moreand we've become part of a warm, uplifting community of supportive parents and teachers. The teachers and staff are incredibly welcoming and deeply committed to every student's growth and well being. Having our child attend St. Catherine of Siena has been a blessing for our entire family We couldn't imagine a better place for their education and development.

I sent/sending all my kids here from TK-8th. & YES it's not FREE, We worked hard for their tuition…read morefees & expect the best for them! First, my daughter graduated at QAS, she didn't do well academically, most of her classmates are unfriendly. It's OK.. I thought it was OK! now she's in high school she finally had the courage to tell me on why she wasn't doing well. It is because of bullying, she wasn't happy with the MEAN GIRLS, then boys on their batch are misbehaving too much to the point they missed out too much activities. No one can tame them. They didn't do much out-of-school activities. NO CARITAS on their batch. Bullying are mishandle and no resolution at all. NO GUIDANCE COUNCILLOR/ Counseling. Some classes are taken out slowly.. NO MUSIC, NO LANGUAGE & ART CLASS/ Spanish, they took out the MOTIVATIONAL Speaker (Principal said no budget/ they are very expensive) School gatherings are taken out too. Good thing they kept the BOO BASH because that the only big event in school which families can use their MANDATORY HOURS. I just never liked some PACE STAFF who acts like an employers during volunteering hours. They acted like they are inheriting QAS... like literally.. EVENTS supposed to be fun were parents happily working together building haunted house / cooking & not monitoring them if they are doing something or NOT. To be there instead of going to work is something , don't make it hard for parents to volunteer. It used to be fun years ago when parents meet-up during events. We laugh , we enjoy , we are building good relationships & always looking forward for the next events. Now they have this tactless PACE which I don't know for some reason she is always screaming.. so to me, just go to work if your boss is better than the PACE President.. or else these PACE STAFF eyes will be on you during the whole time. Now my daughter is doing great at Carondelet , she's making friends , she's happy , she's loud & doing great academics. Currently, I still have 2 boys in QAS, & hopefully the new Principal will do better with the BULLIES. Treating evryone fairly & handles issues carefully... I heard someone said that it's becoming to look like POLITICAL DYNASTY... if you know what I meant by that. some parents complaining about the standard of education is not what it used to 5-8yrs ago.. kids struggles in High School? I hear that a lot lately. MATH teacher Miss V , is good she gave my daughter D grade thanks to that! gave the boys A, fair enough because YES the boys are smarter. Mrs. SURA, my son said she is a good teacher Mrs Clark... very nice & caring teacher We missed Miss.GILMAN we need more teachers like her. She's tough & caring to her students. PE COACH? He must be doing something great to still be there after 5yrs. Secretary Francisco, very helpful & her smile puts her where she's at right now... FRONT DESK OFFICER you will always be greeted with a smile. 4-6yrs ago.. best teachers MISS BUTLER MISS GILMAN MR. O MISS MACMILLAN who inspired Kirsten to go on... Mrs. GRAY Secretary MUSIC Mrs. Davis who handles ALL PLAY. & PACE best President Christine NACA!

We've been a part of this school for about 10 years - our older son started in TK and is now in 7th…read moregrade and we have a younger son in preschool. I honestly believe God had a hand in bringing us here, the school has been so nurturing to our children and it's always been a source of great comfort knowing I'm sending my kids into an environment that shows them the love of Christ in everything they do. Teachers are communicative and regularly available, parents are involved and invested in the school, and overall QAS feels like a big family. There's lots of fun traditions like older students coming to teach younger ones, the annual Halloween party, the yearly auction - but more importantly the community is genuinely filled with good people who care about the kids and I couldn't be more grateful for the impact they've had on our lives.