Carden West School is a private, independent, non-sectarian, non-profit preschool and elementary school in Pleasanton, CA. Established in 1977, the school has a rich tradition of providing quality education in our community. The mission of Carden West School is to
"Provide quality education by upholding high academic standards, fostering a love of learning, and promoting social and ethical responsibility."
Carden West offers fully-licensed, academic-based preschool for children 18 months to five years old, and elementary and middle school Kindergarten through 8th grade.
Many Carden West students have been recognized for their outstanding academic achievement. They rank far above grade level standards and earn superior scores in the Stanford Achievement National Grade Percentiles. For example, 4th graders read at a level equivalent to 12th grade standard or better. Test results May 2008
Carden West is accredited by WASC, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Accreditation certifies that Carden West is a trustworthy institution of learning, and validates the integrity of the school's programs. Accreditation also assures the community that Carden West's purposes are appropriate and are accomplished through a viable educational program.
Our campus, conveniently located in the Hacienda Park near the 580/680 interchange, provides us with ample space for growth. Our facilities include oversized classrooms, state-of-the-art computer labs, a science lab, music room, library and cafeteria. There are two large multi-purpose rooms for concerts and indoor activities. Outdoors we have play structures in a large, secure grassy area.
"Fostering a love of learning"
Carden West School fosters academic, ethical and social values, developing tomorrow's leaders today. The curriculum is based on the California Standards and is customized to individual strengths and learning styles. At Carden West, every student experiences success every day in a nurturing, family-like environment.
Carden West School was originally founded by Annamarie and Norman Zimmerman in 1963 in Southern California. Carden West is based on the teachings of Mae Carden, who believed in the concept of the "whole child". This philosophy emphasizes high academic standards along with high standards for pro-social behavior, thereby nurturing creativity, personal responsibility, and emotional well-being. The Zimmerman family brought this philosophy to the classroom. In 1977, they moved to Pleasanton where they saw an opportunity to teach the Carden Method to students in the local community. Over the past 30 years this approach has proven to be a great success for the students, and the school's enrollment and accommodations have continued to grow.
Carden West is a non-profit school. The school is governed by a Board composed of volunteer parents and prominent members of the community. All funds remaining after operating expenses are paid are reinvested into the school and into educational projects. The School Board is currently composed of nine members.
To further the mission of Carden West School, Carden West has initiated the Carden Advancement Program CAP. The goals of this program are to enrich the educational experience, provide student and teacher assistance, and improve the school infrastruture. Stay tuned for more details.