The Best Private Middle School in Tarzana
Woodcrest School in Tarzana, CA offers students in middle school a private education that builds a solid foundation in preparation for high school. In grades 6-8, we transition students from concrete thinkers to abstract thinkers during these critical developmental years. Thriving in the small class sizes we’re known for and the strong community bonds formed between students and teachers, our middle schoolers flourish in the outstanding academic opportunities we’ve provided for over 50 years.
220
Of Students
33
Of Full-Time Teachers & Assistants
14
Of Students Per Class On Average
19
Of Extracurricular Offered
Explore our Middle School Program Curriculum
At Woodcrest, we believe in providing our students with a traditional college preparatory program with an academic emphasis on the core curriculum of STEAM and electives. We create opportunities for students to learn through investigation, research, and real-life connections that can be made in all subject areas. We ensure that students gain a solid understanding of the different subject matter being studied, as well as developing critical skills such as summarizing reading, note taking, organizing classroom materials, analytical thinking and writing, and studying for periodic tests and exams.
At Woodcrest, our STEAM lab employs project-based learning and collaboration to connect students with the real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, art, and math. This approach fosters practical understanding and equips students with valuable problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Visual arts play a vital role in our middle school curriculum at Woodcrest. Through creative expression and exploration, students develop their artistic talents and expand their visual literacy. These experiences not only enhance self-expression but also foster creativity and critical thinking in our students.
Physical education promotes not only physical fitness but also the development of critical life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy lifestyle choices. Through a well-rounded PE program, our students gain a strong foundation for maintaining a balanced and active life.
Science holds a central role in our private middle school curriculum at Woodcrest, fostering inquisitiveness and critical thinking among our students. Through hands-on experiments, inquiry-based learning, and exploration of real-world phenomena, we empower students to develop a deep understanding of the natural world. Our science program aims to inspire a lifelong passion for learning and problem-solving, preparing students to engage with the ever-evolving challenges of our modern society
In the computer lab, our middle schoolers learn computer literacy and work on their keyboarding skills. We focus on understanding how computers work, how to use programs such as Word and PowerPoint, and how to conduct proper internet research.
Language arts is a cornerstone of our private middle school curriculum, fostering students’ reading, writing, and communication skills. Our program emphasizes literary analysis, writing, and effective oral expression, helping students to become articulate and critical thinkers.
Dance and music are important pieces of our middle school curriculum, nurturing students’ creativity and self-expression. Our program provides opportunities for students to explore various dance styles and musical genres, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts. Through participation in dance and music classes, our students develop skills that go beyond the stage, including discipline, teamwork, and the joy of artistic performance
Homework Policy
While time spent on homework may vary from child to child, our sixth-eighth grade students should spend up to one hour on homework every day.
Technology
Technology is an important part of our education programs at Woodcrest. The classrooms in our private school are equipped with electronic whiteboards and projectors, and we provide students with access to Chromebooks, laptops, a comprehensive robotics program, computer coding lessons, a dedicated computer lab, a well-equipped video production space, and a variety of cross-curricular multimedia resources. For middle school students, we offer a 1:1 Chromebook program, where each student is provided with a Chromebook for the academic year.
Buddy Program
Our middle school and elementary school participate in a buddy program each year. Buddies are matched at the beginning of the year and they participate in regular classroom visits and campus activities.
Lunch
Students are responsible for bringing their own daily lunch and snacks to school. Depending on the group, they have the option to enjoy their lunches in different areas, including an indoor dining space, covered outdoor seating, and outdoor classroom dining. Students have the opportunity to purchase hot lunch options from our vendor, Bright Belly.
Enrichment Programs & Activities
Leadership
As important as academic learning is for all of our students, so is the development of soft skills and understanding of the value of contributing to and supporting one’s community. Students can build in these areas through student government or NJHS events they’ll participate in throughout the year.
Community Outreach
At Woodcrest School, we prioritize collaborative efforts to support our local community. Parents, students, faculty, alumni, and friends unite throughout the year to actively raise awareness, and generate funds. Students will participate in fundraising and awareness initiatives with organizations, such as Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, and others.
Sanford Harmony
We incorporate the Sanford Harmony program to teach lessons that build an understanding of the importance of inclusion and empathy in our students. This program focuses on communication, connection, and community.
After School Enrichment
We offer a diverse array of after-school opportunities, ranging from cooking and chess to theatre and sports teams. We encourage our students to explore new enrichment activities each semester, fostering their personal growth and passions outside the classroom. Visit our After School Enrichment page for a comprehensive list of activities and sports teams.
Daily Schedule & Hours of Operation
School Hours:
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Kindergarten to First Grade)
8:30 to 3:30 (2nd – 5th)
Office Hours:
7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Extended Care:
The campus is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For an additional fee, children will experience free play, a 30-minute study hall, and organized games under the watchful eye of Woodcrest’s school counselors.
See What Parents Have to Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Our private middle school includes grades 6-8.
To view our current tuition and fees please complete the following form and our Admissions Director will be in touch with you.
Enrolling at Woodcrest is a three-step process. You’ll start by exploring and getting to know our community to decide if we are a good fit for your family, then submit an application. After receiving your child’s application we’ll schedule a 30-minute assessment, including interviews with you and your child, and an academic evaluation.
Grades 6-8 begin at 8:00 am and end at 3:15 pm. Drop-off begins at 7:30 am and pick-up begins at 3:15 pm
Our students wear solid-color polo shirts with solid-color pants or skirts. Shirts can be purchased from Woodcrest or a local department store.
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