District Profile
The Ross School District is a single-site public school district serving approximately 340 students in kindergarten through 8th grade in the town of Ross, California. Ross School is a dynamic, award-winning institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and developing the habits of heart, mind, and action that guide all learner-centered decisions. Students are encouraged to apply their thinking in a range of engaging, forward-thinking courses.
Our curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and designed to be rigorous, inclusive, and differentiated to meet the needs of all learners. In addition to core academics, students benefit from enrichment opportunities taught by specialists in music, visual arts, physical education, Spanish, technology, and STEM. Class sizes average 18 students, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1.
In grades K–5, students work with classroom teachers as well as support teachers, instructional assistants, and volunteers. Middle school students (grades 6–8) rotate through four core subjects, language arts, math, science, Spanish, and social studies, as well as PE and a variety of electives. Electives include art, band, strings, guitar, robotics, technology, gardening, and community service, among others.
Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) are an integral part of the school experience. Dedicated classrooms support music and visual arts instruction at every grade level. Musical theater and grade-level performances connect directly to the curriculum and embed VAPA standards. Choral music begins in kindergarten, with instrumental instruction starting in 4th grade and continuing through middle school via year-long band and orchestra electives.
Ross School is known for its innovative approach, emphasizing project-based learning, outdoor education, and service learning. These themes are woven into the student experience from kindergarten through eighth grade through a thoughtfully sequenced series of field trips and service opportunities.
Ross School has been recognized as a California Distinguished School and has received the International Literacy Association Award and the Civics Education School of Distinction Award. It has also been nominated for the Heart of Marin County Community Service Award.
A culture of care is foundational to the school. All students participate in Bear Families, cross-age groups led by 8th grade "big buddies" to build community across grade levels. Our full-time counselor provides SEL instruction and individualized support to ensure all students are seen, heard, and supported.
The District benefits from exceptional community support, including the passage of parcel taxes and bond measures, and generous contributions totaling over $1.25 million annually from the Foundation, PTO, and Endowment, covering nearly 30% of the District’s operating budget.
Our teachers and staff model the values we teach, and parents are active partners in fostering a connected school culture. Guided by the belief that our students should be at the center of everything we do, we remain focused on our mission: to serve them well. Ross School is a joyful and inspiring place to learn and grow, with a clear vision and strong momentum for the future.