Presidio Knolls School

Presidio Knolls School (PKS) is a progressive Mandarin immersion school that serves students from preschool through 8th grade. Originally founded in 2008 as a preschool in the Presidio, the school has grown into a full elementary and middle school located on a vibrant urban campus in the SoMa district. PKS is known for its departure from traditional rote-learning immersion models, instead utilizing a project-based learning (PBL) framework that encourages students to solve real-world problems while developing high-level Mandarin proficiency.

The school's curriculum is designed to be 'intentional and joyous,' focusing on the intersection of academic rigor and emotional intelligence. Students engage in deep, units of inquiry that integrate science, social studies, and the arts, all conducted primarily in Mandarin during the younger years with an increasing English component as they progress toward middle school. The PKS philosophy is rooted in the belief that true bilingualism comes from using the language as a tool for discovery rather than just a subject of study.

PKS has quickly become one of the most sought-after independent schools in San Francisco due to its innovative pedagogy and strong sense of community. The school’s campus features flexible learning spaces and a 'maker-space' mentality that fits perfectly within the tech-forward culture of San Francisco. For families seeking a modern, forward-thinking education that also provides deep linguistic and cultural roots in Mandarin, PKS offers a compelling and unique option.