Core Values

The Foundation of the Ohlone Alternative

• The Ohlone Way
  At Ohlone, learning is constructed by doing—planting and exploring at the Farm and working together as interdisciplinary learners in multiage classrooms where curiosity leads the way. Through pathways in English and Mandarin, we cultivate cultural connections, shaping how our students understand themselves, others, and the wider world. 
  As a community of parents, teachers, and staff, we work together to support our students. Family participation is integral to the Ohlone Way. Parents are needed for classroom activities and expected to take leadership roles in community events and in operating the farm to strengthen the connection, community, and opportunities at Ohlone. 

• Honoring Childhood and the Whole Child
  Ohlone cherishes childhood as a time of wonder and holistic growth—physical, intellectual, and social. We encourage student-led exploration and unstructured moments. We meet children where they are by honoring their strengths and preserving space for them to simply be children.

• Actively Learning How to Learn 
  Ohlone believes children learn best when they know themselves as learners and are accountable for their learning. Our classrooms use interdisciplinary, multi-age experiences to empower and motivate each child to own their learning.

• Growing Character and Resilience
  Ohlone supports children as they make choices, learn from mistakes, and navigate challenges. We nurture kindness, self-awareness, and empathy, make space for reflection and repair, and encourage each child to keep going—even when things feel hard.

• Building Community and Citizenship
  Ohlone cultivates a community built on belonging, respect, shared responsibility, and gratitude. We work side by side—students and adults alike—to be compassionate global citizens who care for one another, our community, and the diverse world.

Ohlone's core values distinguish it from other neighborhood schools and form the basis of its educational and community structure. The Core Values Committee (CVC) provides Ohlone families and the larger community with a deeper understanding of and commitment to the Ohlone approach to education.