Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now open!
To begin the application process, click “Apply” at the top of this page.
Also accepting applications for the current school year. Inquire at admissions@sterneschool.org.

Sterne School Brings
Joy to Learning

Sterne School offers a seamless educational journey, beginning in 4th grade with a strong foundation in literacy, math, and executive functioning. As students progress into Middle School, the focus expands to include deeper academic engagement and social-emotional development. By High School, students are immersed in a comprehensive, college preparatory program designed to equip them with the skills, confidence, and self-awareness needed for success in higher education and beyond.

Academic Program Highlights

Sterne’s Lower School is a nurturing, strengths-based environment for young learners to build core academic skills.

• Emphasis on foundational literacy and math skills

• Supportive transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn”

• Phonics-based structured literacy for dyslexia  (Learn about Sterne READS program)

• Project based-learning that fosters curiosity and creativity
  
  

Sterne’s Middle School is a dynamic, inquiry-based environment where students explore passions and build confidence.

• Classes tailored to students’ instructional needs - both support and challenge

• Integrated academic interventions - no pull-outs or outside tutoring needed

• Hands-on, project based learning to spark curiosity and critical thinking

• Leadership, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities to foster growth and connection
  
  

Sterne High School is a challenging, college preparatory program with a strong focus on independence, advocacy, and real-world skills.

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL)-based instruction designed and led by expertly-trained faculty

• Structured support through Office Hours and Homework Hall

• Individualized college counseling begins in 9th grade

• Graduated accepted to 200 colleges and universities as creators, problem-solvers, and leaders
  
  

Community & Campus

Sterne’s urban campus is at the heart of downtown, where Chinatown, North Beach, and the Financial District converge. We are just blocks away from BART, Muni, the Ferry Terminal, and Golden Gate Transit, offering easy access to a wide range of experiences both in and out of the classroom.

Campus Highlights:

Our Mission

Sterne’s mission is to build on the foundation of individual strengths to discover and nurture each student’s version of greatness.

STERNE SCHOOL VALUES

Admissions Process

Your Ravenna checklist will guide you through each step of the process:

1. Join us for a Parent Tour, Information Session (Lower/Middle School), and/or Open House (High School)

2. Submit your application through Ravenna

3. Schedule a Student Visit Day and Parent Interview

4. Submit teacher evaluation/recommendations

5. Upload transcripts and other relevant assessments

6. (Need based/optional) Apply for Tuition Assistance via Clarity
   
   

Tuition Assistance

Sterne offers tuition assistance to help expand access for qualified families. If cost is a concern, we encourage you to request an application fee waiver.