The San Francisco School
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The San Francisco School
Founded in 1966, we are proud to be one of the oldest independent, coeducational day schools in San Francisco. Entering the front gate of The San Francisco School, there is a sense of intellectual curiosity, imagination, and playfulness that is palpable. Students are engaged, asking questions, and sharing their ideas in the classroom.

Music cascades throughout the courtyard and art decorates every corner of the campus. Students of all ages are climbing trees, digging in the dirt, building with their hands, and playing hard. It does not take long to notice that they love being at school. The San Francisco School is a supportive and rigorous academic environment that is committed to developing the full and unique potential of every student.
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For 55 years, we have built an academic program inspired by our mission to foster a passion for learning in students from a diverse range of families. Children at SFS love to come to school because they feel challenged and supported. They work together and learn in-depth about topics that matter to them.
The magic of The San Francisco School experience is found not only in the wonderful learning that happens in the classroom but also our one-of-a-kind campus and unique programs, culture, and traditions that have grown around it. Community members often describe SFS as an urban school with a village atmosphere.
The San Francisco School is a wonderful community. We are an independent, coeducational day school for Preschool through Eighth Grade. SFS is a vibrant school with a focus on strong academics, conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and creativity. Founded in 1966 as a Preschool, SFS has grown to include 283 students and about 50 staff members.
There are many ways to support The San Francisco School, whether that's volunteering at school events, donating time or expertise, participating in fundraising events, contributing to the Annual Fund or a capital campaign, or building our endowment. We ask that all parents/guardians be involved and invested.
People choose to work at The San Francisco School because it offers academic freedom and leadership opportunities; inspires and supports professional growth; and is an energetic, passionate, and inclusive community. The San Francisco School seeks a talented, dedicated, and enthusiastic elementary substitute and/or Extended Day instructor to provide afterschool enrichment support for students.
Reviews (6)
Winston Vaughan
Winston Vaughan
Nov 25, 2018
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A place where a child’s brain, soul and heart can all grow in a balanced and personal pace is the biggest gift a parent can give at home, in school and in this world. 10 seconds on SFS campus and any child or parent or guardian will feel the goodness here. It’s SFS - super frigging special.
Penny Watson
Penny Watson
Jul 30, 2018
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I went for Doug Goodkin’s Jazz Orff class, and came away with a ton of new ideas and strategies for teaching. The grounds, including the garden, make me want to go back and do school again!
Erin Mcleane Becker
Erin Mcleane Becker
Apr 06, 2017
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This school is so wonderful! My daughter has gone since Kindergarten and is now in 2nd grade. The whole school is such a wonderful community! The school has an amazing music program, a spacious adventure playground, chickens, rabbits a strong social justice mission, fabulous teachers and lots of support for learning differences. I could go on and on! A wonderful school!
Teresa Walker
Teresa Walker
Oct 03, 2015
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This is an amazing K-8 program, deeply and securely held by its fabulous 40+ year Orff Schulwerk music program!!! Thanks to Doug Goodkin, James Harding, and Sofia Lopez-Ibor!
Ruth Gass
Ruth Gass
Sep 07, 2015
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The San Francisco School: As an educator with over 30 years in K-8 education, including having been Head of two schools, I am thrilled that my two grandchildren attend the San Francisco School. The school blends academic excellence with a focus on character development, the arts, and integrated and active learning. The classrooms I have visited,… the assignments and activities I have seen, and the teachers I have met, all represent what I want for my grandchildren's education: an exciting and varied and rigorous curriculum that engages children, that is taught by caring and skilled adults
Fredric K. Willhoit
Fredric K. Willhoit
Sep 03, 2013
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It is wonderful to follow our music teacher, Ms. Andrea Nichole Donahoe through this site. Our entire district is thrilled for her and this experience!