History of SIL
Dr. Herman Ohme and Mrs. Jean Ohme, in the early 1980’s, established the tutoring center that would evolve into the innovative school it is today. As a teacher and principal at California public K - 12 schools in the 1950’s - 70’s, Dr. Ohme witnessed many injustices: students were criticized for being different, expelled for being truant, and failed with no second chances. After decades of encountering the endemic problems of our educational system, the Ohmes devised a school that “Does no harm,” as Dr. Ohme says, “Where one size does not fit all.”
SIL began to offer dual-enrollment high school credit in 2001. As families recognized the value of a one-to-one and small-group education, SIL adapted to accommodate students full-time. The school was first accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 2005.
Today 200+ students, 27 teachers, and four administrators call SIL home. Since 2005 our program has expanded signficantly, from 34 UC-approved courses in 2008 to 159 in 2013. We've also worked hard to cultivate an active student government, as well as a focus on teacher professional development, self-reflection, and growth.