Welcome
School for Independent Learners is a small, nurturing, private high school for grades 7-12. We offer college preparatory, advanced / honors, UC-honors, and Advanced Placement coursework, as well as academic tutoring, standardized-test preparation, and college counseling.
Most of our courses are taught in the ultimate student-centered format: one teacher, one student. Our one-to-one setting provides a tremendous opportunity for accelerated progress and self-directed learning. Teachers tailor course content with respect to each student's interests, goals, and abilities. We employ a philosophy of “mastery learning” to ensure that students master course material, at their own pace. At SIL, failure is not an option.
A personalized academic program can be created for the student who seeks greater intellectual challenge, for the athlete or musician who needs flexible scheduling, or for the individual who feels lost and overlooked in group environments. Attend class at our Los Altos campus, or connect with our teachers online, using Skype. For truly advanced students, we offer an accelerated two-year degree program.
Despite the flexibility of our courses, we ensure that each individualized course meets--and often exceeds--California state standards. SIL is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and all courses are approved by the University of California.
We offer full-time and part-time programs. Some students graduate from SIL, while others take only one or two classes at SIL, and transfer credit elsewhere. We work closely and collaboratively with neighboring high schools to ensure that our curriculum complements their curriculum, so that credit is easily transferred and academic standards are upheld.
From start to finish, each course progresses at your optimal pace. SIL is open year-round, seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Schedule classes at your convenience, and begin coursework at any time.