Where learning feels like discovery
Independent K-6 education in Santa Monica
Belonging fuels bold learning
At PS1, each child is honored for their individual strengths and supported by a community that knows them deeply. Our intentionally designed seven-year journey ensures that every experience is purposeful, joyful, and rooted in meaningful academic and social-emotional growth.
The result is students who excel academically and carry forward the confidence, empathy, and courage to shape their world.
What a PS1 graduate carries with them
Seven years here shape four things in particular. They show up long after sixth grade.
Confident communicators
Students learn to express themselves with clarity and self-awareness, building trusted relationships and emerging ready to thrive in any environment.
Learn morePurpose-driven leaders
Children grow into active citizens who understand their impact, balancing rights with responsibilities and leading with intention, compassion, and integrity.
Learn moreCollaborators and advocates
Rooted in empathy and connection, students learn to see from multiple perspectives, stand up for others, and strengthen every community they join.
Learn more
Joyful, curious learners
Childhood is honored and curiosity leads the way. Through research, discussion, creative problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and collaboration, students build confidence for middle school.
Learn moreVoices of the PS1 community
Hear from students, parents, and alumni about the impact of a place where everyone's story matters.
I love our teachers and learning.
This year as a 6th grader in East Oak, I learned how important it is to keep trying even when something is really hard.
Writing is really fun at PS1, and math is too because we play a lot of math games. Math is kind of gamified, and I like that.
PS1 students are kind, motivated, and community-minded. They're just a blast to work with.
Standout by design
Every detail here reflects a choice we've made to help students thrive.
Why the details matterPS1 in motion
Our community is always growing, learning, and sharing. Discover what's happening through stories, events, and student voices.
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Spring 2026 Periscope: mysteries and problem-solving
Every question is an invitation and every mystery the beginning of discovery. This issue looks at how children build the confidence to navigate the unknown.
Learning beyond grade levels
Students collaborate across ages, building empathy, leadership, and flexible thinking.
Hands-on learning that sticks
Students go deep through interdisciplinary projects and creative exploration.
Discover PS1;
Discover you.
Discover a place where your child's full self grows through joyful learning, meaningful challenge, and deep connection.