School For Independent Learners

909 North San Antonio Road

Los Altos, CA 94022

16 Reviews

School District
Grade

8-12
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on June 14, 2024

My son who is neurodivergent graduated from School of Independent Learners this year. We decided on SIL after considering various options that did not need his needs. We are very pleased with the quality of education that he received. The 1:1 model of instruction worked very well for him due to his unique needs. The teachers are passionate about what they do and this helped develop a love of learning. The principal Ms. Pham is caring and always available to help. Overall our experience was a very positive one, and I highly recommend SIL.
Submitted by parent on May 14, 2024

While well intentioned, the school is ill-equipped to support the diverse student body that it purports it is designed to support. The school was inconsistent and inconsiderate when supporting our student in taking advanced classes and exams resulting in a failed result. The head of school was highly defensive and when questioned about the outcome, blaming a disabled student directly for the outcomes. This is not a good solution for families looking for a school for children with learning differences or challenges.
Submitted by parent on May 09, 2024

Both of my kids took 3 years of high school math at SIL, and we were so happy with the experience. The instruction was challenging but personalized, and so effective for students with busy schedules who wanted to maintain a rigorous school schedule but needed time and flexibility to digest the material at their own pace. The instructors were caring and made a big effort to get to know our kids' learning styles and interests, so math ended up being an enjoyable time in which my kids felt seen and understood. This was one of the best decisions we made for our kids during high school. Highly recommend.
Submitted by other on April 12, 2024

The School for Independent Learners stands out for a reason. They don't just passively give you information for you to cram down your throats; they actually take the time to hand-craft their methods to each student, and it is almost artistic the way they do that. And the community? It's like a second family. Trust me, this place is the real deal.The teachers are top-notch, teaching practical tricks like organizing math problems and inspiring lifelong learning. The community is welcoming, with diverse clubs and a sense of belonging. Classes are challenging but manageable, tailored to individual needs. If you want a school that feels like home and fosters growth, SIL is it. Highly recommended.
Submitted by parent on April 09, 2024

A great school !! Will recommend to other parents.
Submitted by other on April 09, 2024

I am an alumnus of SIL, and I genuinely cannot recommend it higher. Every professor genuinely loves their subject matter and will tailor their classes to work with you, not vice versa. The school's size enables students to form close bonds with others without feeling overwhelmed and excluded. There is no better school to prepare students for success and to reach their full potential.
Submitted by parent on April 09, 2024

Very gifted and dedicated teachers. They really tailor to what the student needs. Cannot recommend highly enough. Can accelerate the pace for faster than average learners, or adjust those who need more support. Both our children loved it and attended 1-3 years full time. Have recommended to other families who now go full time and say their student loves learning again.Our students have been very successful in college at competitive universities (Big Ten and highly selective East Coast schools)
Submitted by other on March 11, 2024

The School for Independent Learners provided a unique opportunity that public school systems often couldn't offer, especially to someone like me with a learning difference. My educational journey truly began at SIL, where I refined my critical thinking skills, fully embraced active learning, and adopted the mindset of a lifelong learner. These invaluable lessons have remained with me long after my time at SIL. The strong foundation I built there has empowered me to pursue opportunities I once thought were out of reach, including applying to esteemed universities like Stanford, Columbia, and the UC system. I can confidently say that SIL has equipped me with the tools I need to thrive in my academic endeavors.
Submitted by other on March 04, 2024

At School for Independent Learners, personalized learning flourishes in a warm and welcoming environment. The one-to-one approach ensures students have the tools to succeed and earn high school credits. Credit goes to the exceptional principal for their visionary leadership and the dedicated teachers who go above and beyond. Located in a beautiful setting, the campus offers an inspiring backdrop for holistic education. I wholeheartedly recommend SIL to anyone seeking a nurturing educational experience.
Submitted by other on September 19, 2023

I would highly recommend this school for kids who are in need of help with their learning. Teachers are well prepared and qualified.
Submitted by parent on February 18, 2023

I would highly recommend this school for kids who are in need of help with their learning. SIL teachers are the most nurturing, caring and inspiring teachers in the world. After my kids took their classes with SIL teachers, they developed an interest in learning about a variety of subjects. After graduating from SIL, my older kid entered one of the highly regarded UC campuses. He has been doing great there and enjoyed every bits of his learning in college, thanks to his awesome high school teachers at SIL. My younger one is enjoying his learning as well at SIL. Kudos to SIL for being a great school that provides a great opportunity for students to learn.
Submitted by parent on May 16, 2018

I would recommend this program to anyone!
Submitted by parent on May 19, 2017

My son moved ahead three years in math at School for Independent Learners. This school is also a great alternative if something isn't working out in public school. We are very lucky to have this school nearby. The teachers here are really nice and dedicated people.
Submitted by parent on October 08, 2013

This school was the best ever. My daughter had previously been at one of those smaller schools, meant to help those kids who are bullied, different, or in some way just didn't fit in. Let me tell you, that was a disaster and it was with great pleasure that I enrolled her in the School for Independent Learners. The bottom line is she learned! Not only did she learn but she was taught by outstanding teachers who instilled in her the self-confidence that had been lost. This school is a treasure!
Submitted by parent on June 28, 2012

Our daughter needed some individual instruction during the junior and senior years in several classes. SIL was great -- she really learned the material and she was very comfortable with and enjoyed the teachers. The instructors have mostly been at SIL for a long time - they are very strong and caring teachers, and they customoize their approach to match the needs and learning styles of the students.
Submitted by parent on May 30, 2012

Have found the school to be a great resource for a sick child. Teachers are adept at the material they teach, engaging and inspiring for the student. The focus is on MASTERY of the material - not busy work. My child has enjoyed the experience. Good communication and billing straight forward. Broad mix of students, some full time, others part time, and some are there for tutoring. I don't see a lot of parents on site, other than dropping off/picking up of the kids, but this is high school, not middle school or below. However, the school is inviting of the parents asking questions or attending the Friday barbeques where I found some of the teachers playing the drums, guitars, etc in an informal music session. Very positive experience!