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Why Families Choose Hillbrook School
Hillbrook School was founded in 1935 in Los Gatos, California, as The Children’s Country School. It was originally established as a progressive learning community focused on experiential education, aiming to provide children with hands-on learning opportunities in a natural setting. Over the decades, Hillbrook evolved into a highly respected independent JK-8 school that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
Today, Hillbrook School is recognized for its student-centered curriculum, which emphasizes project-based learning, technology integration, and social-emotional development. With a 1:6 teacher-student ratio and an enrollment of around 360 students, Hillbrook ensures a personalized and engaging learning experience.
Hillbrook also prioritizes outdoor education, diversity, equity, and inclusion. To extend its educational impact beyond middle school, the school has expanded its offerings with the Hillbrook High School program. The school’s Los Gatos campus provides a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art facilities, open learning spaces, and strong arts, athletics, and STEM programs.
Hillbrook remains a pioneering institution in progressive education. It trains kids for academic success, leadership, creativity, and lifelong learning.
How Hard is it To Get Into Hillbrook School?
Hillbrook has a selective admissions process that evaluates applicants based on academic performance, teacher recommendations, personal essays, extracurricular involvement, and interviews. While it may not be as competitive as some of the most elite private schools in the area, Hillbrook seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a good fit with the school’s values and community.
The main entry points for Hillbrook School are typically in Junior Kindergarten (JK) and Kindergarten, which are the primary entry years, and 6th grade for middle school expansion. While admissions for 1st through 8th grade are possible, they are less common and more competitive due to limited available spaces. Families interested in applying should begin the admissions process early, as spots fill quickly, especially for the key entry points in JK, Kindergarten, and 6th grade.
While standardized test scores are not listed as a requirement, applicants may choose to submit them if they believe it will enhance their application. Additionally, a parent or guardian statement is required to provide insights into the student’s character, strengths, and educational goals.
Given the competitiveness of the process, families may benefit from working with private school admissions consultants who understand the ins and outs of the Hillbrook School admissions process. Consultants can provide valuable guidance in presenting a compelling application and ensuring that prospective students stand out in a highly selective pool of candidates.
The Hillbrook School Admissions Process
Creating an account on Ravenna is the first step in the Hillbrook School application process. You may apply, register for admission events, receive notifications from Hillbrook School, and monitor your application progress. The steps you should take are as follows:
- Create an Account on Ravenna Hub
- Submit an Inquiry Form
- Attend Admissions Events (Optional but Recommended)
- Submit Required Documents and Complete the Application
- Schedule and Complete an Interview
- Submit Supplemental Materials
- Enrollment Confirmation
For more details and to begin your application, visit Hillbrook School Admissions.
Hillbrook School Admission Requirements.
Parent Statement
Parents or guardians of applicants are required to answer a parent/guardian questionnaire that is found on Ravenna. You will be asked to talk about your child and share information about their personality, achievements, and other personal information. The last question asks about your family’s goals and willingness to participate in activities that promote the values and mission of Hillbrook School.
How to write a parent statement
The parent statement is an integral part of the application process as it will help admissions officers better understand your child’s background and potential to become successful at Hillbrook School. It will also demonstrate your family’s commitment to your child’s education. When choosing what to write about, remember that you have to be honest and authentic. Focus on your child’s strengths and unique characteristics, and provide anecdotes to support your statements. For some tips on how to write a powerful parent statement from experienced educational consultants, click here.
Teacher Recommendations/Recommendation Letters
Recommendation letters from current math and English teachers and the principal or counselor are necessary for applicants. The forms can be found on Ravenna and will be sent to the admissions committee online.
How to get strong recommendation letters
Teacher recommendations are crucial for admission since they give a more thorough evaluation of your child’s character, personality, and academic aptitude. Because they deal with your child on a daily basis and can confirm your child’s academic success, they can make professional and unbiased observations. Building strong relationships with teachers is essential if you want them to be able to provide strong recommendations that support other application materials when the time comes for them to do so.
Transcript
Transcripts from both the previous academic year and the first semester of the current one must be submitted by applicants. You can download the confidentiality and release forms from Ravenna and send them to your child’s present school.
How to improve grades
The transcript will demonstrate your child’s readiness to handle Hillbrook School’s rigorous curriculum. But what if your child’s grades aren’t all that outstanding? Start private school admissions consulting early! Our tutors and academic coaches will work with your child to improve grades and achieve scores that meet the requirements. We provide online or in-person tutoring for a variety of courses as well as diagnostic testing. However, because we are aware that boosting GPA won’t guarantee success, we provide academic coaching that teaches executive function skills as a more holistic strategy.
Personal Statement
There are questions on Ravenna that the applicant has to answer within a limited character count. The questions delve into your child’s personality, skills, interests, and expectations of Hillbrook School. The questions might seem simple and easy to answer, but admissions officers are looking at certain characteristics and values in your child that will determine if they are a good fit at Hillbrook School.
Crafting a compelling personal statement
Our private school admissions consultants can guide your child and give advice on how to best answer the questions truthfully. Our years of experience working with families applying to Hillbrook School have allowed us to understand what they are looking for in applicants. From your child’s personal circumstances, we can identify what traits and characteristics will interest the admissions team and be considered for admission. Here are some useful tips on how to write a compelling personal statement.
Standardized Test Scores
While the school remains test-optional, standardized test scores can be beneficial as admissions personnel can better assess each applicant’s academic preparedness and likelihood of succeeding in Hillbrook School’s demanding environment using these exams.
How to prepare for standardized tests
We are aware that getting ready for standardized tests can be somewhat stressful, but we can be of assistance. We will help your child via a customized test preparation strategy, from recognizing their strengths to addressing areas they find challenging, based on our years of expertise working with families applying to Hillbrook School. Our objective is to alleviate the burden of test preparation and ensure your child is prepared to present their best self on test day. View our services for test prep here.
School Visit and Parent Conversation
As part of Hillbrook School’s admissions process, a school visit is a required component. This visit provides an opportunity for prospective students to experience the campus environment and for the admissions team to engage with the applicant. Additionally, a parent conversation is scheduled to discuss the family’s educational goals and assess the alignment with Hillbrook’s mission and values. These interactions are integral to the school’s holistic approach to admissions, ensuring a mutual fit between the student, family, and the Hillbrook community.
Campus Tours and Open Houses
Hillbrook School also offers several opportunities for prospective families to explore its campuses and learn more about its programs:
Open Houses: These events provide an in-depth look at Hillbrook’s educational offerings and community.
Campus Tours: Hillbrook encourages families to experience the campus firsthand through guided tours. Tours are available by appointment and can be scheduled by contacting the Enrollment Team. These visits offer a chance to observe classes, meet faculty and students, and gain a sense of the school’s environment.
Virtual Tour: For those unable to visit in person, Hillbrook provides a virtual campus tour video, showcasing the facilities and vibrant school life.
Families are encouraged to reach out to the Enrollment Team with any questions or to schedule a visit. Participating in these events is an excellent way to determine if Hillbrook School aligns with your educational goals and expectations.
How to register
To register for Hillbrook School’s Campus Tours or Open Houses, follow these steps:
- Create an Account on Ravenna. Ravenna is the platform Hillbrook uses for admissions. Create an account at Ravenna, which allows you to access the application, RSVP for events, and track your admissions progress.
- RSVP for Events. Once your Ravenna account is created, you can view upcoming Open Houses and Campus Tours. Select the events you’re interested in and RSVP directly through the platform.
- Schedule a Campus Tour. If you’d like to schedule a private tour, contact Hillbrook’s Enrollment Team at admission@hillbrook.org or call (408) 356-6116. Tours are typically available by appointment, and the admissions team will coordinate a time that works best for you.
- Virtual Tour. If you can’t attend in person, Hillbrook offers a virtual campus tour video that can be accessed via their website.
By registering through Ravenna and attending the events, you can get an in-depth look at the school and make an informed decision about the application process.
Virtual Panel Sessions
Hillbrook School provides virtual panel meetings to give prospective families with information about the school’s activities and community. These events include discussions with staff, current students, and parents, providing a thorough overview of the Hillbrook experience.
Upcoming Virtual Panel Sessions:
- Being a Founding Family (Parent & Student Panel). This session features current parents and students who share their experiences and perspectives on being part of Hillbrook’s founding community.
- Academic Program Overview. Led by the Head of Upper School, this session delves into Hillbrook’s academic offerings, curriculum structure, and educational philosophy.
Accessing Virtual Panel Sessions
To participate in these virtual panel sessions, please visit Hillbrook School’s official website and navigate to the admissions section. There, you can find information on upcoming events, including virtual panel sessions, and register accordingly.
Student Life at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook School’s student life is designed to provide a balanced and enjoyable experience. The school emphasizes academic performance, personal growth, and community engagement. Its rigorous and innovative curriculum promotes intellectual curiosity and hands-on learning. The school emphasizes project-based learning, so students are encouraged to investigate real-world challenges and work with classmates on a variety of topics, including STEM, humanities, and the arts.
Hillbrook also offers extracurricular programs that help students flourish outside of the classroom. Through various programs, students are encouraged to pursue their passions and develop vital skills such as teamwork, creativity, and resilience. These include drama, music, and visual arts, as well as athletics and leadership. The school also encourages community service and character development, which helps kids develop into sympathetic, responsible individuals who value collaboration and making a big difference.
Overall, Hillbrook’s student life focuses on providing a welcoming atmosphere in which students can develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for success in both school and life.
Curriculum and Core Academic Programs
Hillbrook School’s curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded, progressive education that prepares students for future academic challenges to cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Core academic programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), the literature, the arts, and physical education form the basis of the curriculum. There is a strong emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning. The method tries to get students interested by having them solve problems in the real world, work together to learn, and explore ideas based on their own questions.
At the elementary and middle school levels, Hillbrook provides a rigorous academic foundation in subjects like math, language arts, social studies, and science. The curriculum encourages students to make connections across disciplines and use what they’ve learned in real-life situations. Hillbrook uses technology in all grade levels. Tools like coding, robots, and digital art help students learn how to use technology and are creative and problem-solving. Social and emotional learning and character development are also very important at this school. They help students learn important life skills like how to be resilient, show understanding, and communicate.
For high school students, Hillbrook offers a more specialized curriculum that builds on foundational skills while offering greater opportunities for academic depth and exploration. The high school program includes advanced courses in mathematics, science, English, history, and the arts, along with a strong emphasis on college readiness. Elective courses provide opportunities for students to explore their specific interests, including subjects like foreign languages, visual and performing arts, and technology. Throughout all grade levels, Hillbrook promotes a growth mindset where students are encouraged to be curious, take risks in their learning, and develop a strong sense of intellectual confidence and self-motivation.
Hillbrook School Athletics
Hillbrook School’s athletics program plays an important role in the overall student experience, promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership. The school offers a variety of sports for students at different grade levels, including both competitive and recreational options. Athletics are not only about competition but also about fostering a love for movement, building confidence, and helping students develop skills that can be applied in many areas of life.
These sports provide students with opportunities to engage in team activities, build athletic skills, and foster school spirit through both competitive and recreational options.
Hillbrook School Arts and Music Programs
The arts and music classes at Hillbrook School are an important part of the school’s all-around approach to education. They give students a chance to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and feel more comfortable expressing themselves. The goal of these activities is to encourage a love of the arts, help people grow as individuals, and build community through shared artistic experiences.
Visual Arts at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook’s visual arts program encourages students to engage in creative expression through various mediums such as drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and digital arts. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of art while also being encouraged to experiment with new techniques and concepts. The program emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and artistic development, giving students opportunities to create individual projects and collaborate with others on group artwork.
Performing Arts at Hillbrook School
The performing arts program at Hillbrook includes opportunities for students to participate in drama, dance, and musical theater. Students learn about the performing arts through both structured classes and extracurricular activities, which help them build confidence, teamwork, and communication skills. The school offers annual performances where students can showcase their talents in front of peers and families. Whether acting, dancing, or participating in behind-the-scenes roles such as lighting and set design, students gain hands-on experience in producing and performing.
Music at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook’s music program provides students with opportunities to explore various instruments and music genres. The program includes choir, band, and orchestra, allowing students to develop their musical skills in both group and individual settings. Students learn music theory, participate in group performances, and have the chance to perform in concerts and school events. The music program encourages creativity, discipline, and collaboration, offering students a platform to express themselves through music while learning important technical and performance skills.
Overall, the arts and music programs at Hillbrook School provide students with a rich, well-rounded educational experience that fosters creativity, self-expression, and teamwork while contributing to the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Hillbrook School Clubs and organizations
Hillbrook School has many clubs and groups that allow students to explore their hobbies, learn to be leaders, and bring the school community together. In addition to their schoolwork, these recreational activities give students the chance to do things that help them grow as people and as individuals. Clubs and organizations at Hillbrook School may change from year to year based on what students want, but here are some examples of clubs and groups that are common there.
Leadership and Service Clubs at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook encourages students to become involved in leadership and community service through various clubs. These include student government, where students can participate in decision-making processes and represent their peers. Additionally, there are clubs focused on community service, where students contribute to local and global causes, learning the importance of empathy, responsibility, and teamwork.
STEM and Innovation Clubs at Hillbrook School
For students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), Hillbrook offers clubs like robotics, coding, and engineering. These clubs allow students to work on hands-on projects, solve real-world problems, and learn new skills related to technology and innovation. They are designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.
Arts and Culture Clubs at Hillbrook School
Students passionate about the arts can join clubs related to visual arts, photography, filmmaking, or theater. These clubs allow students to explore their creative talents, showcase their work, and collaborate on projects. There are also opportunities for students to engage in literary and writing clubs, where they can share their passion for writing, storytelling, and poetry.
Interest-Based Clubs at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook offers a variety of clubs centered around students’ diverse interests. These may include clubs focused on environmental sustainability, debate, chess, music, dance, cooking, and more. These clubs allow students to connect with peers who share similar passions and discover new interests.
Diversity and Inclusion Clubs at Hillbrook School
Hillbrook fosters an inclusive environment where students can explore and celebrate their differences through clubs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These clubs promote open dialogue, cultural awareness, and social justice initiatives, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Overall, Hillbrook School clubs and organizations enrich students’ experiences by offering avenues for personal exploration, skill development, and community building. These extracurricular activities are crucial in shaping well-rounded, engaged students who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the school and beyond.
Hillbrook School Famous Alumni
Hillbrook School, known for its strong academic and arts programs, has a number of notable alumni who have excelled in various fields. Some of the school’s distinguished alumni include:
- Gina Tirado Strayer Ma (Class of 1997). Played a key role at Lyft as employee number one, helping build the driver community. She is also recognized as a “female visionary” by Marie Claire magazine.
- Aly Wagner (Class of 1994). First female analyst for the Men’s World Cup on U.S. television and a trailblazer in sports broadcasting.
- Nick DiMaria (Class of 2008). He achieved platinum certification as a guitarist for Devin Dawson’s hit single “All on Me” and is Known for his work in country music.
- Sean Reilly (Class of 2008). A Rhodes Scholar dedicated to solving environmental challenges, who also focused on issues like melting polar ice caps and rising sea levels.
- Stephen Chang (Class of 1999). Authored “The Basketball,” a children’s book about life lessons learned through sports.
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Hillbrook School Alumni: Where Are They Now?
Did You Know?
In the task-based language program Global Passport from Avenues, students have the choice between learning Spanish or Chinese.
We are so grateful for the guidance provided by Cardinal Education during our application to Hillbrook School. As parents, we were overwhelmed by the competitive nature of private school admissions, but with their help, we felt confident and organized every step of the way.
— Parents of a 6th-grade student admitted to Hillbrook School
Frequently Asked Questions
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What tests are required for Hillbrook School’s admissions?
Across all entry points, Hillbrook School’s holistic admissions process focuses on the student’s overall academic and personal profile rather than standardized test performance.
Junior Kindergarten (JK) & Kindergarten Entry
No standardized tests are required. Admissions are based on a school visit, developmental readiness assessments, parent/guardian questionnaires, and teacher recommendations (if applicable). The focus is on social-emotional development, curiosity, and readiness for Hillbrook’s learning environment.
1st – 5th Grade Entry
Hillbrook does not require standardized test scores for elementary school applicants. Instead, admissions decisions are based on academic records, teacher recommendations, school visits, and parent conversations. Some assessments may be conducted during the application process to evaluate literacy and numeracy skills.
6th – 8th Grade Entry
For middle school admissions, standardized test scores are not required, but students may submit them if they believe it will strengthen their application. The admissions team considers academic performance, teacher recommendations, extracurricular involvement, and student interviews. Optional work samples may also be submitted.
9th – 12th Grade Entry (High School Program)
Hillbrook operates under a test-optional policy for high school admissions.
- For 9th Grade Entry, students are not required to submit standardized test scores such as the SSAT. However, they may choose to do so if they believe it enhances their application. The primary admissions factors include academic transcripts, teacher recommendations, personal essays, extracurricular activities, and interviews.
- For 10th Grade Entry (transfer students), the same test-optional policy applies. Applicants may submit standardized test scores if they believe it reflects their academic strengths, but it is not mandatory. The admissions team evaluates transfer students based on their current high school performance, course rigor, and alignment with Hillbrook’s curriculum.
- For 11th and 12th Grade Entry, where openings are very limited, the admissions process remains test-optional. Given the competitive nature of these entry points, strong academic records, teacher recommendations, and compelling personal essays are critical. While standardized test scores are not required, submitting them may provide an additional data point in the admissions review.
Families are encouraged to apply early, as spots fill quickly, especially for key entry points in JK, Kindergarten, 6th grade, and 9th grade.
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What is The Hillbrook School ranking?
Hillbrook School is a highly regarded independent institution in Los Gatos, California, known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. While specific national rankings may vary, Hillbrook consistently receives positive evaluations from various educational platforms.
Niche awarded Hillbrook an overall grade of A+, reflecting its strong reputation in the educational community. The school is recognized for its diversity, ranking 172nd out of 5,220 private high schools nationally.
On GreatSchools, Hillbrook holds a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, based on 34 reviews. Parents commend the school’s effective approach to homework and its commitment to providing an excellent education.
According to Private School Review, Hillbrook ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California, highlighting its strong academic programs and community involvement.
These reviews show that Hillbrook School is committed to providing a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for its students.
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What documents are required for the Hillbrook School application?
Hillbrook School’s application process requires several documents across all grade levels, with slight variations for transfer students in upper grades. The core documents required for all applicants include:
- Application Form: Complete the online application form through Hillbrook’s admissions portal (Ravenna).
- Student Essays: Applicants must submit written responses to prompts that help the school understand the student’s interests, character, and academic aspirations.
- Parent/Guardian Statement: Parents or guardians must complete a questionnaire on Ravenna, detailing their child’s personality, achievements, and educational goals, as well as their alignment with Hillbrook’s values.
- School Transcripts: Transcripts from the previous academic year and the first semester of the current year must be submitted. These should be sent directly by the current school to Hillbrook.
- Teacher Recommendations: Applicants are required to submit recommendation letters from teachers, typically in core subjects like math and English. These recommendations should be submitted online through Ravenna.
- Student Writing Sample: A writing sample is required, reflecting the student’s writing abilities and thought processes. This is an important part of evaluating the student’s readiness for Hillbrook’s rigorous curriculum.
- Interview: An interview, either in person or virtually, is typically required to better understand the student’s character, fit for the school, and academic goals.
- Optional Standardized Test Scores: While standardized test scores (e.g., SSAT, ISEE) are not required, they may be submitted if the family believes they will strengthen the application.
- Optional Work Samples: Students may also submit samples of their work—such as academic projects or creative work—to showcase additional talents or achievements.
For Transfer Students (Grades 10–12):
Transfer students may be asked to provide additional materials, such as:
- Details of current high school performance.
- Information about specific courses or credits that may be relevant to their transition to Hillbrook.
Families should ensure that all required documents are submitted before the application deadlines to ensure full consideration.
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Does Hillbrook School interview parents?
Yes, Hillbrook School does interview parents or guardians as part of the admissions process. The parent conversation is an important component where the school seeks to understand the family’s educational philosophy, goals, and alignment with Hillbrook’s values and mission. This is typically done through an informal interview with a member of the admissions team.
The parent conversation allows the admissions team to gain deeper insights into the family’s involvement in the child’s education and how they view the school’s role in the student’s academic and personal growth. It also helps ensure a strong mutual fit between the family and the Hillbrook community.