Admissions Elementary.
The Dahlia School’s Taller program gives children ages 5–9 the freedom to follow their curiosity—deeply, bilingually, and in community. In a Spanish-immersion Montessori classroom in Mission Bay, students develop real independence, strong academic foundations, and a genuine love of learning. If that sounds like the right fit for your child, we’d love to meet you.
“In our schools the environment itself teaches the children. The teacher only puts the child in direct contact with the environment, showing him how to use various things.”
Get Ready for the 2026 - 2027 School Year:
Applications Open!
At The Dahlia School Elementary's Taller program, children don’t just learn—they explore. In our Spanish-immersion Montessori classroom in Mission Bay, students follow their curiosity deeply and on their own terms, guided by teachers who believe every child deserves the time and space to do their very best work.
Our students cover far more ground than a conventional school typically allows, because they aren't constrained by a uniform schedule or a prescribed curriculum that everyone must move through together. Each child focuses intensely on self-chosen work, diving deeply into subjects that genuinely fascinate them. Teachers stay actively involved—ensuring every child's work is challenging, purposeful, and meeting essential academic standards. The teacher sets the floor; each child determines the ceiling.
Language is woven into everything. Our guides teach in Spanish from day one, allowing children to develop genuine bilingual fluency naturally—reading, writing, speaking, and singing with confidence in both languages. Learning a second language doesn't just expand what children can say; it expands how they see the world. Our students grow up understanding that they are part of something larger—a community rich in culture, connection, and diversity.
Students also take on meaningful projects that connect classroom learning to the wider San Francisco community, because curiosity thrives when it has somewhere real to go.
By the time children leave Taller, they carry something more than academic skills: independence, confidence, and a deep love of discovery that lasts a lifetime.
Elementary School
Application Process for 2026 - 2027 School Year
1. Complete an Application (Required)
Our General Admissions is on a rolling basis. When completing your application, please indicate the earliest date you would like your child to begin. This ensures that your application will remain valid for the following school year, even if space is not immediately available.
2. School Tours (Recommended)
We understand that visiting our school campus is an important part of the decision-making process. We are pleased to offer school tours, providing you with a firsthand experience of our facilities and the warm atmosphere at The Dahlia Elementary School.
During your visit, you’ll be guided through our classrooms, where you can quietly observe each environment and imagine the experience through a child’s eyes. We will share insights about each classroom and answer your questions. Tours are designed for adults only, though babies in arms are always welcome.
Tours are generally offered Friday mornings from 8:00 to 9:00 am. Select your preferred date and register to join us. In July, we will offer informational sessions on Zoom.
June 11 Open House – Open
June 5 Elementary Campus | 8-9 am - Open
June 12 Elementary Campus | 8-9 am - Open
June 26 Elementary Campus | 8-9 am - Open
July 2 (Thursday) Elementary Campus | 8-9 am - Open
July 10 Online Information Session for Elementary Campus | 12-1 pm - Open
July 17 Online Information Session for Elementary Campus | 12-1 pm - Open
July 24 Online Information Session for Elementary Campus | 12-1 pm - Open
July 31 Online Information Session for Elementary Campus | 12-1 pm - Open
3. Interviews (Required)
All families are required to complete a new admissions interview for each child applying to The Dahlia Elementary School for the upcoming year. Invitations will be sent once applications are received, and please note that interviews are by invitation only.
We kindly ask parents to attend the interview with their child. This gives your child a chance to enjoy a first visit to the school, while allowing us to get to know your family and learn more about your child’s unique qualities. The interview is designed as a warm, thoughtful conversation between the school and family—an important step in building a strong, supportive partnership.
4. Application Deadlines
We encourage families to submit applications as early as possible. Admissions decisions are made on an ongoing, rolling basis as space becomes available.
Please note the following:
Most customized tuition budgets are allocated during this period.
Elementary applicants may complete the application process and receive admissions decisions as early as this Fall.
5. Reach Out to Us
If you have any questions about the application process, information sessions, or anything related to The Dahlia Elementary School, please don’t hesitate to contact our Admissions Team at elementaryadmissions@thedahliaschoolsf.org. We are here to support you every step of the way.
We look forward to welcoming both new and returning families to The Dahlia Elementary School for the 2026–2027 school year. Together, we will continue to create a nurturing and enriching environment where students can thrive—academically, socially, and personally.
Thank you for being part of our wonderful community. We’re excited to begin this journey with you!
Affording Elementary School
Taller (Elementary)
Children approximately 5 to 9 years old by September 1 (includes Kindergarten).
Academic Day: $0 - $30,000 annually (3 pm pickup Mon-Fri)
Extended Day: $0 - $35,000 annually (5:30 pm pickup Mon-Thurs, 4:30 pm on Fri)
Drop-off is 8 - 8:30 am Mon - Thur, 9 am on Fri
7.5% additional fee for monthly tuition payments (not applicable for customized tuition recipients)
Tuition schedules above are for a 10-month school year, August 2026 – May 2027.
Tuition includes healthy plant-based lunch and snacks daily, books and educational materials, all school supplies, uniforms, technology (iPads/laptops and accessories), outdoor education, field trips, laboratory fees, yearbooks, and athletic uniforms.
Extended Day is currently guaranteed for families that have enrolled in Extended Day programming for the year.
Daily Drop-In Extended Care may be available for a daily rate of $35 per day (scholarship rates apply). May include additional enrichment programs such as gardening, knitting, art, chess, dance, music, afternoon tea time and sports, and STEM.
Summer months are optional
Scholarships and customized tuition are available.
