Walden School

We're so happy at Walden, and credit high teacher morale and a strong, very passionate director for making it great. Our daughter is in her fourth year, has just one more left after this term. And to us Walden has provided the perfect balance for her critical, formative years. Intimate without feeling small, accessible without being coddling, it has wonderful enrichment classes that enhance a strong foundation in the basics. Our kids do get homework, but not a crushing amount. And they participate in standardized testing -- without being preoccupied with it. They take overnight trips, do volunteer service, and learn a whole lot about life and the world we live in. Walden has prepared our daughter for the next step, and whether that's a progressive or more "traditional" middle school, we know she'll thrive. Just talk to any Walden 6th grader. You'll find a bright, engaged kid who's bound for a really great middle school next year. Then talk to the admissions director at any of the private schools in Pasadena -- including those in the "top tier." They'll tell you they love Walden kids, and they'll tell you why. And for those of us here, that's no news at all.
--Submitted by a parent

I have two very different children attending Walden. One is an academic, driven student and the other requires a good deal of academic hand holding. Walden has been the perfect choice for both. This is what Walden does best. It provides challenging work while keeping the focus on learning not grades for very academic children. Children who require extra support recieve it along with the ackowlegment of their individual strengths.
--Submitted by a parent

We feel fortunate that our two children are able to attend Walden. What a wonderful school! The teachers are outstanding, the administrators are committed and responsive, the parents are active and involved, and the students are deeply engaged in learning. We've been impressed with so many aspects of the curriculum-- such as the writing program, the approach to math, the attention to science and outdoor education, and the inclusion of the arts, among other things-- and have seen our children develop strong skills as well as an ability to think creatively and independently. We recommend the school whole-heartedly.
--Submitted by a parent

I am surprised to read that a past parent has recently posted a less than favorable review. We have been a Walden family for the last 8 yrs and plan to spend another 3 yrs at the school, until our youngest graduates as the class of '15! Our family witnessed wonderful growth of the academic program, faculty, and administration over this period of time. Our oldest child now attends middle school at Flintridge Preparatory School and has thrived both in the classroom and as a leader among peers. Witnessing this seamless transition has further confirmed our impression of Walden as a place where children learn to think on their own, respect diversity, develop a broad world view, and love learning! I cannot imagine a better place to spend one's K-6 years.
--Submitted by a parent

We have 2 boys at Walden, and I couldn't be happier with the school. Walden provides an amazing child-centered program that nurtures and inspires. The administration, and faculty are committed to progressive education, and are constantly evaluating their philosophies and methods. The director of the school is amazing, and under his leadership, we've watched the school become the wonderful place that it is. Walden students typically move-on to the finest middle and upper schools in the area, and do very well. I highly recommend Walden.
--Submitted by a parent

We are in our 5th year of having children at Walden, and I'm pleased to say that every morning my children wake up still excited to go to school. Walden bills itself as creating life-long learners, who don't just memorize facts and figures, but really develop an insatiable curiosity about the world around them. This is exactly what seems to be happening with our children. The academics are good (our children have consistently placed significantly above grade level in the standardized tests and evaluations they have taken) and the outdoor education program is the best one I ve seen at the elementary school level including trips to Joshua Tree, Astrocamp, CIMI and the Grand Tetons. The school offers a top notch writing program, and I can t believe the writing my children are doing at their age. Walden s graduates place across the board at all of the best schools in the area from the more traditional to the more progressive.
--Submitted by a parent

We have been a Walden family for the last 7 years and are sad to see our time there coming to an end. Our child is graduating this June and we have high expectations that she will move onto a great middle school for which she will be fully, and confidently prepared. The multi-age classroom experience has been wonderful and allows for appropriate learning. Over the last few years the school has adopted Singapore Math and the Lucy Calkins (sp) Creative Writing program, both of which have made Walden academics on par with any school in the area. We could not be more pleased. Walden has fostered a love of learning in our child. I never thought I would hear the words "science is my favorite subject", but I hear it now. Our child is leaving Walden a well-rounded, well-educated, confident young teen. Great teachers, great environment, great experience.
--Submitted by a parent

This school seems great at first and you become sold on the things they say but it is does not live up to minimum expectations. Many left the school when we did because of its lack of integrity and academics. They fail to teach in a progressive manner. The teacher had favorites, children were not challenged. The teacher played commercial radio in the classroom. Our child was in a split class and had to move around school to find a space to do math class. We were told math was not a priority when asked why they weren't doing math everyday. Parents are distracted by all the events the school does. The administration and teachers do not listen, they don't want to listen to anyone or do anything about the problems. This school is a scam! Our daughter is now thriving at a wonderful school.
--Submitted by a parent

Our children have been at Walden for 3 years now and each we grow to appreciate it more and more. The students are truly encouraged to learn at their own pace and developmental level. This does not mean your child will not get a good education - what this means is your child will get a deeper education that is more meaningful to them. There's none of that competitiveness between students (and more often parents) that we see in most of the other local private schools. Students are encouraged to learn for the love it, not because of a test or grade. Walden is producing creative thinkers, which is going to lead them to stand out as adults. The new math program, Singapore Math, is remarkable. My children are inspired by math now and very confident in their ability.
--Submitted by a parent

Absolutely the best school in the area. We toured all of the progressive schools before choosing Walden. We wanted a school that addressed different learning styles, that focused on deep learning, and that would let the children progress at their own pace. We also wanted one that would encourage life-long love of learning, a deep sense of community, and an appreciation for individuals. Our daughters love going to school, and we're blown away by the depth of their learning, as well as the breadth of what they are learning. We feel fortunate that our children are part of this dynamic and diverse community.
--Submitted by a parent