Apply
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in Children's Day School!
We look forward to meeting you and your family. Our Enrollment Management team is here to answer any questions you may have along the way. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime at admissions@cds-sf.org.
Important Dates:
We look forward to meeting you and your family. Our Enrollment Management team is here to answer any questions you may have along the way. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime at admissions@cds-sf.org.
Important Dates:
- January 13, 2026 Preschool & Transitional Kindergarten applications due
- January 20, 2026 Grades K-8 applications due
Get Started!
To get started with the application process, you will first need to create an account on Ravenna. In Ravenna, you can manage school applications, register for events, and track your admissions progress. If you have any issues navigating Ravenna, please contact Erin McHale, our Assistant Director of Admissions, at erinm@cds-sf.org. Tour dates will open for registration via Ravenna on September 1.
To get started with the application process, you will first need to create an account on Ravenna. In Ravenna, you can manage school applications, register for events, and track your admissions progress. If you have any issues navigating Ravenna, please contact Erin McHale, our Assistant Director of Admissions, at erinm@cds-sf.org. Tour dates will open for registration via Ravenna on September 1.
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Learning for the Future
Our unique competency-based curriculum is designed to prepare students for an unpredictable, technology-driven world. CDS students think critically, solve problems creatively, and engage meaningfully in their community.
Application Process
See our three-step application process below. Log in or create a Ravenna account here, and see our visit page for upcoming tour dates!
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Step 1: Tour CDS
All applicants are required to attend an in-person tour or virtual info session. You’ll hear from our Head of School, Shelly Luke Wille, meet our Division Directors, and explore our campus on a parent-led tour that gives you an authentic look at our community. See our upcoming tour dates at cds-sf.org/visit. -
Step 2: Submit Application
Like many Bay Area schools, we use Ravenna for our application process. Log in or create your Ravenna account to complete and submit your application. Please note that there is a $100 fee to apply. If you would like an application fee waiver or have any issues with the application, please email us at admissions@cds-sf.org. -
Step 3: Schedule Visit & Interview
After you have submit your application, please sign up for a weekend family visit (for preschool, TK, and kindergarten) or weekday student visit (for Grades 1-8). All local students must visit in person. Families applying to grades TK-8 should also sign up for a virtual parent/guardian interview. Register for visits and interviews on Ravenna, and email Kristina and Erin with any questions at admissions@cds-sf.org.
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What You Need to Apply
When you're ready to submit your application, you will also need the following teacher evaluations and school records:
When you're ready to submit your application, you will also need the following teacher evaluations and school records:
List of 3 frequently asked questions.
Notification of Decision
Admission decisions are emailed in mid-March. We craft each class looking for a balance in ages as well as socio-economic, racial, cultural, and family diversity. Read our nondiscrimination policy.
How old does my child need to be to enroll in preschool or kindergarten?
CDS preschoolers must be three years old by September 1, 2026 and able to use the bathroom on their own to enroll for the 2026-27 school year. Kindergartners must be five years old by September 1, 2026. Children who will turn five years old between May 1 and December 1, 2026 are eligible for our Transitional Kindergarten program.
See more admissions FAQs.
See more admissions FAQs.
Contact Us
Kristina Berman
Director of Enrollment Management
(415) 861-5432 x322
kristinab@cds-sf.org
Erin McHale
Assistant Director of Enrollment Management
(415) 861-5432 x337
erinm@cds-sf.org
Applicants and their family members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the admission process should contact the Enrollment Management Team at admissions@cds-sf.org.
Questions? Contact our enrollment team or see our FAQ page.
Kristina Berman
Director of Enrollment Management
(415) 861-5432 x322
kristinab@cds-sf.org
Erin McHale
Assistant Director of Enrollment Management
(415) 861-5432 x337
erinm@cds-sf.org
Applicants and their family members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the admission process should contact the Enrollment Management Team at admissions@cds-sf.org.
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Kristina Berman
Director of Enrollment Management -
Erin McHale
Assistant Director of Enrollment Management
Children's Day School
Children's Day School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Learn More
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