School Options
Schools in the East San Jose area that may offer supportive, flexible learning environments.
Discovery Charter Schools
Philosophy: Positive Discipline, whole-child development, project-based learning.
Locations:
- Discovery Charter 1: 4021 Teale Ave, San Jose (K-8)
- Discovery Charter 2 (Falcon): 762 Sunset Glen Dr, San Jose (K-8)
What parents say:
- "A school worried less about test scores and more about creating a love for learning"
- "Focus on character, identity, and socio-emotional learning has helped my child thrive"
- Students gain confidence through presenting about topics that interest them
Things to know:
- Uses a Positive Discipline approach (no punitive methods)
- Lighter homework load than traditional schools
- Encourages parent participation
- Enrollment is by lottery — check application deadlines (typically February-March)
Website: discoveryk8.org
Robert F. Kennedy Elementary
District: Franklin-McKinley School District. This is a Positive Discipline Lab School.
What parents say:
- "My daughter learned more in the final 6 weeks here than she had the previous 8 months elsewhere"
- "They welcome family engagement and embody community"
Things to know:
- Public school (no tuition)
- Smaller class sizes than many charters
- Strong family engagement culture
Montessori Options
Montessori education can work well for children who benefit from learning at their own pace, hands-on materials, predictable routines, and freedom to move around the classroom.
Hammer Montessori at Galarza Elementary (Public)
District: San Jose Unified School District. A public Montessori option, meaning no tuition cost.
Orion Montessori (Private)
AMI-certified, 6:1 student-teacher ratio, serves elementary through 8th grade.
One World Montessori (Private)
Large school serving ages 2.5-12, emphasizes emotional regulation.
Alum Rock Union School District
This is the home district for much of East San Jose. Being in your home district can simplify transportation and community connections.
- LUCHA at San Antonio — LUCHA Academy merged with San Antonio Elementary; smaller, community-focused environment
- Dual Language Programs — Vietnamese and Spanish immersion available
Quick Comparison
| School | Type | Key strength | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery Charter | Public Charter | Positive Discipline, project-based | West SJ / Blossom Valley |
| R.F. Kennedy Elementary | Public | Positive Discipline Lab School | Franklin-McKinley |
| Hammer Montessori | Public Montessori | Self-directed learning, free | SJUSD |
| Orion Montessori | Private Montessori | 6:1 ratio, individualized | San Jose |
Specialized Programs
Many children thrive in mainstream settings with appropriate support. However, these resources exist if circumstances change:
- Second Start Pine Hill School — Designed to help children transition back to mainstream classrooms
- AchieveKids — Has an East San Jose campus, offers smaller class sizes
These schools are typically funded through your school district via an IEP, not out-of-pocket.