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From the Founder

Sandi Passalacqua

Why do parents choose to send their children to The Healdsburg School?

At THS we recognize the unique gift that is inside every child.  There is a saying: “If you take care of the heart of a child, all else will follow”.  We are experts in taking care of hearts.  When a child feels valued and respected, s/he feels safe and therefore more open to learning.  Every teacher at our school embodies this special quality of caring.

 The environment in this school is positive, child-centered, and values inquiry, with a focus on a global perspective.  As the only independent school in Sonoma county to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, we are a leader in global 21st century education. We pride ourselves on preparing our students for the challenges of their times; to navigate successfully the global workplace and community.

With international-mindedness as a focus, we are unique in requiring all K-8 students to study both Spanish and Mandarin throughout the grades.  Our Upper School students enrich their studies through trips to Costa Rica, China, and Spain experiencing first-hand those languages and appreciating differences in culture.  This global perspective is enhanced with a thorough understanding of American History and civic responsibility, supported in the Upper School with a rich, academically focused trip to Washington DC.

Of course, our rigorous academic curriculum, complete with the development of critical thinking, real world problem solving, STEM integration, and unparalleled faculty is the foundation for inspiring academic excellence in our students.  But that is only the beginning, we teach our students “how to think, not what to think”.

I invite you to come share in the magic of children excited about learning.

Warmly,

Sandi Passalacqua