History of SIL
In 2001, Dr. Herman and Jean Ohme founded School for Independent Learners, based in Los Altos, California. SIL was granted full accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 2005, and all courses have been approved by the University of California.
Early in their careers, as teachers and administrators in overcrowded public schools, Herman and Jean saw many injustices: students were failed with no second chances, expelled for being truant, and criticized for being different. After decades of encountering the endemic problems of our educational system, they founded SIL to offer a supportive place for students to learn, without the threat of failure or punishment. They devised a school that “does no harm,” where students can learn the value of hard work and perseverance. To learn more about the Ohmes’ unique approach to education, read their biographies or visit Herman’s website.
Today, hundreds of students and dozens of teachers call SIL home. Most of our graduates attend four-year colleges, and often return to tell us how well their SIL education prepared them for college and beyond.