Pacific Oaks

The location and grounds of a school are not the most important thing, but in the case of Pacific Oaks they are a big, big plus. The forest-like grounds and old craftsman buildings that comprise the campus give a wonderful feeling to the school.

The most important thing--the teachers and curriculum--I can also highly recommend. Pacific Oaks generally represents a progressive, individualistic program. There is some variation depending on the teacher, but PO is very good at accommodating varied needs and talents.

As with any school, size up the teachers your child is likely to get. I've had one child go to PO through the K class, and I'd happily do it again.

PROS: Beautiful surroundings, great environment, consistent philosophy
CONS: As always, be sure you're in sync with the philosophy and teachers

Pacific Oaks is located in two campuses in designated Cultural Heritage neighborhoods in Pasadena. The childrens school is located on California Blvd. with facilities in several majestic California bungalows built in the 1920s. The two-acre property is surrounded by huge oak, eucalyptus, and olive trees, which keep it private and well-shaded. The college campus is a mile away on Westmoreland Place in a pair of turn-of-the-century houses on a tree-lined cul-de-sac. It is the site of the Administrative Offices, the Presidents Office, the College Library and bookstore, seminar rooms and the Deans Office. The college offers courses of study leading to a degree (BA or MA) in Human Development.

My daughter participated in the Pacific Oaks summer school in 2004. She was in the infant-toddler program. We loved the facilities at the school and people say great things about it. Overall, I thought it was a good program.