Alta Vista School: Where Curiosity Takes Flight

At Alta Vista School, learning takes flight through our STEAM-powered curriculum grounded in social-emotional learning. From Junior Kindergarten through 8th grade, students are encouraged to ask bold questions, investigate big ideas, and explore how the world works — while imagining how they can make it even better.

Learning Through Exploration
Learning at Alta Vista is hands-on, experiential, and centered on student curiosity. Beginning in Junior Kindergarten, students engage in interdisciplinary, inquiry-based projects that nurture creativity, critical thinking, and self-discovery. As they progress through Middle School, they deepen their STEAM knowledge, apply concepts to real-world challenges, and take increasing ownership of independent projects.

All students, from Junior Kindergarten through 8th Grade, participate in school-wide engineering challenges, where an approach to an engineering puzzle evolves as students grow in the breadth and depth of their learning. Public speaking is honed through traditions and independent initiatives, and it’s not uncommon to see students help lead school-wide presentations. 

Small class sizes and close teacher mentorship foster confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of identity, preparing students for success in high school and beyond. Our program also includes specialist classes and electives in Spanish, Visual Arts, Music, Drama, Gardening and Sustainability, Tinkering, and Physical Education, giving every student the chance to explore their interests and uncover new talents.

A Curriculum That Inspires
Our rigorous academic program balances standards with flexibility for student-driven exploration. Lessons are framed by guiding questions, extend beyond the classroom, and integrate collaboration, community service, and social-emotional growth—helping students build knowledge, skills, and confidence to make an impact.

Technology With Purpose
Students use Chromebooks, iPads, cameras, 3D printers, laser cutters, and more as tools to explore, experiment, and solve real-world problems. From robots to coding, technology is intentionally woven into learning to support collaboration, creative expression, and innovative thinking.

Small Classes, Big Impact

• Junior Kindergarten: 8:1 (two lead teachers)
• K–5: 10:1 (two lead teachers per class, plus 6+ specialists)
• Middle School: Up to 40 students per grade, with 10–18 students divided into three sections

Visit Us

Campus tours are now open for registration!
Visit altavistaschool.org/admissions/tour-avs to learn more.