Logo / navigation container

At Walden, Wisdom Comes From Wonder

Learn More

Walden School is an independent progressive school for Pre-K to 6th grade students in Pasadena, California. 

Centering Childhood

In Walden classrooms, learning is grounded in inquiry, experience, and collaboration. Our progressive program is informed by principles of social justice and inclusion, and helps children master both academic and social-emotional skills.

Explore how we cultivate creative and critical thinkers who use their voice as compassionate change makers in our diverse world.

NURTURING A CHILD'S NATURAL WONDER

STAY CURIOUS

Children are naturally driven to explore the world around them and figure things out. When this curiosity is encouraged, their mind is actively engaged, making observations, analyzing options, finding connections—in other words, learning. Our curriculum views wonder as the foundation for growth and progress.

ENCOURAGING THE SPIRIT OF RENAISSANCE LEARNING

DISCOVER YOUR PASSION

Classes in art, dance, library, music, P.E., science & technology, Spanish, and storytelling are an integral part of the Walden experience from Pre-K through 6th grade. Taught by our specialist faculty, these classes provide creative inspiration to every learner and support our students in becoming well-rounded citizens who understand the world through multiple perspectives.

PROMOTING CHILD-LED INQUIRY

LEAD THE WAY

At Walden, children have a voice and a choice. Child-led inquiry is the tool that encourages students to take ownership for their learning. Beginning with questions that spark critical thinking, students' inquiry and reflection lie at the heart of our educational experience.

INSPIRING EXCELLENCE

LOVE LEARNING

Our program guides students toward mastering traditional academic skills and applying their knowledge to a variety of situations in creative, insightful ways. As children discover the inter-relatedness of what they learn, they are inspired to find deeper answers to their questions.

TEACHING THAT WE ALL HAVE STEWARDSHIP FOR THE WORLD IN WHICH WE LIVE

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Our place-based approach to learning includes outdoor education, field trips, and service learning. Students gain a deep understanding of the needs and resources of the environment and communities around them, and learn how to make a positive impact.

VALUING AND RESPECTING DIVERSITY

BECOME A GLOBAL CITIZEN

Rooted in a deep commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion, we guide students to understand their multiple identities, notice and celebrate the diversity in their community, recognize and name injustice, and take action to create a more equitable world.

FOSTERING CREATIVITY IN PROBLEM SOLVING

STRETCH YOUR IDEAS

We view problems as opportunities to improve and develop a growth mindset. Our teachers model the importance of approaching a challenge with empathy and an open mind. We encourage students to find fresh perspectives and come up with practical solutions.

@lifeatWalden

Voices of Walden

Walden is a community built on understanding, respect for others, and a shared love of learning. Like the larger Pasadena community, we embody a diverse range of backgrounds, interests, beliefs, and family structures. We thrive on the unique ideas and perspectives each person brings to the school. These are some of our stories.