Golestan School serves children from age two through grade five, offering a uniquely integrated education rooted in exploration, culture, and community. From the smell of bread baking in the kitchen to the sound of children engaged in hands-on projects, Golestan feels more like a welcoming home than a school. Every detail of the environment has been carefully designed to nurture curiosity, compassion, and joy in learning.
We are excited to feature our sponsor, Golestan School, in the spotlight today for their multicultural preschool through fifth-grade education.
Real-World Learning Through Exploration
At Golestan, learning extends well beyond the classroom walls. The expeditionary learning model engages children in projects, fieldwork, and real-world problem solving. Whether tending the school garden, investigating local ecosystems, or creating models in the maker lab, students are encouraged to connect academic study with lived experience. This approach fosters a deep understanding of concepts and helps children see the relevance of their learning.
Rooted in Language and Culture
Language is at the heart of Golestan. The preschool is fully Persian immersion, applying the same experiential-based approach as the elementary school. The elementary school is in English with exposure to languages represented by the faculty at the school (for example, Persian, Hebrew, Japanese, Spanish, ASL). In the K–5 after-school program, instruction is in both English and Persian. Families may also opt into Persian literacy instruction (reading and writing) at no additional cost.
Through this rich multilingual foundation, students develop not only language proficiency but also a strong appreciation for culture and heritage. This cultural grounding is further strengthened by community-based expeditions and projects that encourage thoughtful engagement with the wider world.
A Whole-Child, Inclusive Approach
Every child at Golestan is seen and supported. Small class sizes and a warm and loving environment allow teachers to nurture intellectual growth alongside empathy, resilience, and creativity. The emphasis is not only on academic mastery but also on developing the social-emotional skills and compassionate worldview that prepare children to thrive beyond school. The school’s mission is to raise kind, thoughtful and courageous children. To that end, all staff model these values in a thoughtful and authentic way. Every decision made at the school is with intention, and it shows.
Culture and Community
Community connection is central at Golestan. Teachers conduct home visits each year for every child, fostering strong school–family relationships. Annual family cookouts and camping trips, organized by grade level, help families bond at the start of the school year. The Golestan Community Association brings parents together to plan community service events, fundraisers, picnics, and playdates—ensuring the school community remains vibrant and connected.
See Golestan School in Action
What Families Say About Golestan School
“Golestan is a place where my child feels deeply known and inspired. She comes home eager to share what she’s learned and continues exploring on her own.”
“We love that learning happens both in the classroom and out in the community. The connection between home and school is like no other.”
“The teachers nurture both academic skills and the heart of each child. It’s a rare and beautiful balance.”
Fast Facts About Golestan School
🏫 Grades: Preschool (2 years old) through 5th grade
🧑🎓 Enrollment: 100-110 Students
🕰️ School Hours: 9 am – 3 pm, Before & After Care Available
🧸 Preschool: Expeditionary learning, Persian language immersion
📚 After School (K–5): English and Persian instruction; optional Persian literacy program
👕 Uniform: No
💵 Financial Aid: Available
📍 Address: 320 San Carlos Avenue, El Cerrito, CA
🔗 Website >
🔗 Elementary Program | Admissions Information | Expeditionary learning model
Plan Your Visit to Golestan School: Admissions & Key Dates
- Elementary Tours: Weekly on Thursdays, starting October 2
- Preschool Tours: Every other Tuesday, starting October 7
- Next Steps: Families are invited to complete the online interest form or register for a tour to learn more about Golestan’s programs.
Thank you again to our sponsor, Golestan School, in the spotlight today for a multicultural preschool through fifth-grade education.
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