WELCOME TO
Terra
Schools
Where multilingualism
meets nature-based education
Who We Are
The Terra Schools are a nature-based, multilingual Mandarin and Spanish program for preschoolers through 5th graders.
Fluency in Spanish and/or Mandarin is achieved through a strong foundation of language immersion in the early years, followed by language infusion in later years. Engaging, passionate teachers harness students' enthusiasm to accelerate traditional academic learning, with interactive projects and student-led discussions inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy. A personalized curriculum with low student-teacher ratios empowers young minds to grow beyond what traditional classrooms offer. We aim to spark wonder, a love of learning, and 21st century leadership skills through weekly nature-based excursions.
Our culture of kindness is infused throughout the community and bolstered by dedicated Social Emotional Learning staff and curriculum.
Our Educational Pillars
Learn
Tailored, Collegiate-Track Academics. Multilingual. Project-Based Learning. High School Prep. Love of Learning.
Grow
Earth Education & Outdoor School. Art, Music, and Drama. Teamwork. Creative Problem Solving. Flexibility. Positive Habits of the Mind.
Belong
Student-Led Discussions (Harkness Table). Social Emotional Learning. Mentorship. Family Partnership. Diversity.
Languages
Spanish & Mandarin.
Immersion then Infusion.
Empathy Building. Critical Thinking. Cultural Diversity & Appreciation.
Arts
Singing. Music Video Making. Improvisational Drama. Rock Band. All-School Play. Playwriting. Cake Decorating. 2D Studio Drawing.
Earth Education
Experiential Outdoor Learning. Reduce Stress. Boost Academic Performance. Cultivate Leadership & Teamwork. Nurture Wonder & Curiosity.
Upcoming Events
- Thu, Jan 23Terra San FranciscoJan 23, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PMTerra San Francisco, 3801 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121, USAJoin us for Parent Perspectives Night, an adults-only event where current and prospective parents can connect. Hear from our parent panel and get your questions answered. Parking is available in our lot on 39th Avenue.
- Multiple DatesSat, Jan 25Bunny Meadow - Golden Gate ParkJan 25, 2025, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PMBunny Meadow - Golden Gate Park, Conservatory Dr W, San Francisco, CA 94118, USAJoin an upcoming Outdoor Open House to experience firsthand what makes our program unique and to learn more about our Reggio-Emilia-inspired, nature-based, language immersion program for TK-5th graders.
- Sun, Jan 26Terra San FranciscoJan 26, 2025, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PMTerra San Francisco, 3801 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121, USAJoin us on Sunday, January 26th, from 12 - 1:30 PM, for a self-guided tour of the Terra San Francisco Campus. Meet our teachers, chat with parents, and explore classrooms to see student projects in action.
Why Terra Schools
Research shows that early language immersion, nature-based education, and integrated social emotional learning are the best ways to help children grow into their full potential. Dig deeper into the research here
Early language immersion works
Research shows that learning a second or third language before ages 6-7 results in higher likelihood of native proficiency in a second language by adulthood, compared to starting at ages 7-12. And it takes 2-7 years to become fully fluent in a second language, through a language immersion program regardless of a child’s prior language exposure.
Nature-based education helps students reach full potential
Studies have proven that it helps children have lower stress, better cognitive functioning, and improved social skills.
Social emotional learning is foundation for success
Science has proven that having a social emotional learning curriculum starting from a young age leads to improved emotional intelligence, increased positive attitudes toward self & others, and greater success later in life.