My son went to Athenian for middle and high school. You will not find another middle school program like it in the East Bay - we checked them all. The experiential learning component really sets it apart, and then it has all the bells and whistles that most private schools have. The high school is more traditional, but it still has some very innovative programs.
I chose Athenian for my daughter because unlike other privates, it starts with middle school. Everyone is new. It is an awkward time for kids and they try very hard to set high expectations for kindness and respect. Teachers and administrators keep a watchful eye out for signs of trouble amid the constant drama of middle school years. The middle school is kept separate from the high school and the experiential learning is well thought out. Unlike public school, if your kid is smarter than the average bear, they move them to the right level — even into high school classes for language and math. Athenian challenges the kids, but remembers they are still kids emotionally. We live in Walnut Creek and the bus service to/from school also created a nice warm up and wind down to the day. It was a great investment!
Parent Replies
My son went to Athenian for middle and high school. You will not find another middle school program like it in the East Bay - we checked them all. The experiential learning component really sets it apart, and then it has all the bells and whistles that most private schools have. The high school is more traditional, but it still has some very innovative programs.
I chose Athenian for my daughter because unlike other privates, it starts with middle school. Everyone is new. It is an awkward time for kids and they try very hard to set high expectations for kindness and respect. Teachers and administrators keep a watchful eye out for signs of trouble amid the constant drama of middle school years. The middle school is kept separate from the high school and the experiential learning is well thought out. Unlike public school, if your kid is smarter than the average bear, they move them to the right level — even into high school classes for language and math. Athenian challenges the kids, but remembers they are still kids emotionally. We live in Walnut Creek and the bus service to/from school also created a nice warm up and wind down to the day. It was a great investment!