Black Pine Circle School is an independent kindergarten through 8th grade school in Berkeley. For nearly 50 years, our award-winning elementary and middle schools have nurtured lifelong learners through a Socratic inquiry-based education that is rooted in our core values of curiosity, community, inquiry, and voice.

Enrolling in a K–8 school provides unique opportunities for students to develop their sense of self and expand their understanding of family with meaningful connections to a variety of students of different ages, ethnicities, cultures, family structures, and personalities. In the Black Pine Circle School community, students learn to engage with and respect diverse viewpoints from a place of humility and self-reflection. Cultivating empathy, active listening, and independent thinking supports academic as well as social and emotional growth. Our students’ sense of belonging in a joyful, safe, and engaging learning community fosters academic excellence and prepares them well for the next step in their educational journey.

We look forward to getting to know your family. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or visit our website.