Business Details
Private Preschool & K-8 Education in Encinitas, CA
The Rhoades School is a private educational institution dedicated to nurturing bright, high-achieving students from preschool through middle school. Our mission centers on teaching children how to think critically rather than prescribing what to think, fostering intellectual curiosity and courage. We provide a balanced blend of academic rigor and creative exploration, with programs designed to develop students' social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Our experienced educators create warm, inclusive classrooms that prioritize discovery-based learning and individual growth. Located in Encinitas, California, we serve families across the greater San Diego area with extended day programs, summer camps, and a supportive school community. We emphasize collaboration between teachers and parents to ensure each child feels valued and empowered.Our curriculum evolves with students, offering foundational literacy and numeracy in early years and expanding to innovative, interdisciplinary learning in later grades. Safety, kindness, and mutual respect form the cornerstone of our school culture, creating an environment where students thrive academically and personally. We believe in cultivating lifelong learners who approach challenges with confidence and creativity. Our commitment to professional development ensures teachers remain at the forefront of educational best practices. By combining structured academics with joyful exploration, we prepare students to excel in future educational endeavors and beyond.
Services
Preschool Programs
Elementary School
Middle School
After School Care
Summer Camps
Highlights and features
- We provide a balanced curriculum fostering academic, social, and emotional growth
- Our teachers prioritize discovery-based learning and individualized attention
- We maintain strong parent-teacher partnerships for student success
- Our classrooms emphasize safety, kindness, and mutual respect
- We offer extended programs including summer camps and after-school care
Services
Preschool Programs
Our preschool programs serve children aged 2-5 with developmentally appropriate curricula focusing on literacy, numeracy, art, and social skills. Through play-based learning and structured activities, we cultivate foundational academic abilities while nurturing emotional growth. Our classrooms provide a safe, engaging environment where young learners develop curiosity and social competence.
Elementary School
The elementary program offers rigorous academics combined with creative exploration for students in transitional kindergarten through fifth grade. Our interdisciplinary approach emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative learning. Specialized instruction in STEM, arts, and physical education complements core subjects, fostering well-rounded development in a supportive community.
Middle School
Middle school provides challenging academics and character development for students in grades 6-8. Our program balances advanced coursework with social-emotional learning, preparing students for high school and beyond. Electives, extracurricular activities, and project-based learning opportunities encourage intellectual curiosity and leadership skills in a nurturing environment.
After School Care
Our after-school program offers supervised care and enrichment activities for students beyond regular school hours. Certified staff facilitate homework assistance, creative projects, and recreational activities in a safe, structured setting. This program supports working families while maintaining educational continuity through engaging, age-appropriate experiences.
Summer Camps
Summer camps provide educational enrichment and recreational activities for children during school breaks. Our themed programs combine academic reinforcement with creative exploration, including STEM projects, arts, and outdoor activities. Certified instructors create a fun, safe environment for continued learning and social development throughout the summer months.
Questions
What age groups does The Rhoades School serve?
We serve children aged 2-14, offering preschool programs for 2-5 year olds, elementary school for transitional kindergarten through 5th grade, and middle school for grades 6-8.
What educational philosophy guides your curriculum?
Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and character development. We focus on teaching students how to think rather than what to think, using discovery-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches.
Do you offer extended care programs?
Yes, we provide before and after school care programs, as well as summer camps that combine educational enrichment with recreational activities for students of all ages.
What makes your school environment unique?
We create a safe, nurturing environment where students feel valued and respected. Our classrooms emphasize kindness, collaboration, and mutual respect while maintaining academic excellence and individualized attention.
How do you support family involvement?
We maintain regular communication between teachers and parents through daily updates, progress reports, and family events. We encourage parental participation in school activities and decision-making processes.
Reviews (6)
Sam K.
May 03, 2019
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Though San Diego has many public schools that have high ratings, the ratio of kids and the litany of problems that normally come from public school, i always wanted to send my child to a private school. We looked at all the top private schools, La Jolla Country Day, Francis Parker, Evans and Del Mar Pines. La Jolla Country Day felt cold and the teachers in K and 1 when meeting prospective parents didn't have the enthusiasm and energy to keep up with kids and all of the parents who were in the same group as us, none signed up in the end. We applied and enrolled in Francis Parker due to it
Celia E.
Apr 10, 2019
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My boys both attended this school for a couple years. Initially, we put them in this school so they could be academically challenged, however after being at the school we noticed that the academics were just slightly ahead (not the 1-2 years we were told). As a result both of our sons were bored. Other issues beside the academics being the same as public school, were outdated disciplinary methods, bullying (this is very bad at this school), classroom drama, teachers don't do yearly trainings to stay current, teachers talking about students behaviors to other parents, condescending attitude
Laura B.
Apr 24, 2018
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We moved our child here from public school and have been so happy. We loved the community and staff at our old school but there was no faster paced or gifted track and my kids were not challenged. Rhoades has leveling so that kids are placed in a group that is pushing them. My kiddo is so much more engaged now that the work is interesting to him. The curriculum and teachers are awesome and class sizes are small. It's a nice community of people who value education.
Be Be
Sep 26, 2015
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The Rhoades School is a hidden gem, and we are grateful to have found it and be a part of this dynamic and diverse community of staff, teachers,and families. The Rhoades School offers its students the opportunity to grow and be challenged academically, while nurturing their social and emotional development. Its small size enables the staff and teachers to get to know all the students and for the students to get to know each other. The "arts and science" programs are also outstanding, enhancing the students depth and appreciation for music, fine arts, language, science, and theater. In addition
Melissa R.
Mar 12, 2015
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As the director of an academically based preschool in the area, I can tell you that this program is top notch. With the public school ratios being at an all-time high, I am frequently asked by enrolled parents where they should send their child to Elementary School and my answer is always Rhoades. The education your children will receive here will exceed your expectations and the administration is wonderful. If you are looking for a great private school in North County that is not religiously affiliated, you have found the best option.
Jennifer Lawerence
Jul 10, 2014
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Your kids will get a good education. The children are challenged and the teachers try to provide a well balanced education with music, sports, computers etc. The school is privately held so money is an important factor but the high level of education makes it a positive experience.
