• The mission of West Hillsborough School is to work in partnership with students, parents, and the broader community to educate the “whole” child. To that end, we nurture and empower every student as they learn how to become a contributing member and responsible participant in our changing world. The Essential Outcomes for West Students are for them to become innovators, problem solvers, effective communicators, people of good character, global citizens, and ultimately, lifelong learners.

    West Hillsborough School is one of three elementary schools serving the children of Hillsborough, California. Our students are drawn from an upper socio-economic community. Our enrollment is 349 students, K through 5th grade. The West Preschool and numerous other Hillsborough Recreation Programs are located on campus.

    Our staff, which includes forty-two caring educators, works in concert in order to bring the very best to all students. West School provides a rich environment for students to learn and grow both academically and socially. With a full-time counselor, librarian, music and physical education teacher, we are able to offer our students the highest quality education across all disciplines.

    We provide an academically rigorous, nurturing, and safe learning environment. Resiliency, reflection and relationships with a focus on taking responsible risks are the cornerstones of a West School education. We actively engage both students and parents in the life of our school and the decisions that affect them. We foster each child's motivation to learn, to display concern for others, and to develop a sense of personal responsibility and integrity. Our efforts are guided by best practices, high standards, and the building of partnerships and involvement among students, staff, parents, community and the Hillsborough Schools Foundation.

    All students have access to standards-based instructional materials. With an eye on the Common Core Standards our work continues to emphasize depth, complexity, and rigor for academic excellence. We are supported by professional development at the district and site level to ensure teachers have the necessary tools for differentiating curriculum and instruction. An overarching theme is the encouragement for taking responsible risks to complement our efforts for innovation and creativity. Teachers are invigorated by this approach and are embracing new ways to enhance their instruction. Students are also led to push their thinking and to be fearless in their quest for knowledge.

    We continue to have small class size at every grade level, which permits structuring a more individualized program for students. Teachers examine assessment data in order to set Personal Education Plan goals (PEP) for each student. Collaboration at grade level and in vertical teams provides equity and parity throughout our program.

    In addition to the clear emphasis on a broad academic education, a strong focus is placed on students’ social-emotional growth. Social-emotional health and character development curriculum reinforces healthy relationships among students. West School is committed to bringing depth and breadth to reach our social-emotional goals for each student.

    We strive to maintain a warm and nurturing school atmosphere, where respect and support among students, staff, and parents is evident. West School works hard to encourage academic, personal, and social-emotional growth for all students. As you walk throughout our school you will often hear students, parents, and staff say, “West is Best”!