Laurel Hill Through the Decades

Laurel Hill began in 1947 with a bold idea—parents and educators working side by side to create a space where young children could learn through play, curiosity, and connection. Inspired by the writings of John Dewey and the progressive education movement, it wasn’t just a school—it was a community.

11.jpg
1.png
3.png
2.png
4.jpg
9.png
10.jpg
5.png
14.png
8.jpg
13.jpg
12.png
7.jpg
6.jpg

Then, Now, and What’s Next

  • Founded as Presidio Nursery School at 70 Commonwealth Avenue, Laurel Hill began with a bold mission: to offer children the highest quality of progressive care and education—while supporting parents through hands-on involvement and adult education. A true cooperative from day one.

  • A large scale fundraising campaign is launched in order to purchase land and construct a building for the growing pre-school. The three lots at 401 Euclid are partially donated by the Hallinan family.

  • At a joyful groundbreaking ceremony attended by San Francisco’s civic leaders and local families—including the Swig, Lurie, and Magnin families—the school officially reopened as Laurel Hill. It stood not just as a school, but as a testament to what a community can build together.

  • A new Yard Master Plan transformed the school’s outdoor space, turning sand dunes into a purposeful play environment that reflected the school’s deep belief in the power of outdoor learning.

  • At its 40th reunion, Laurel Hill honored the co-op spirit that defined its past. Katherine Whiteside-Taylor, founder of the Bay Area co-op movement, gave the keynote. In a symbolic moment, the school burned its mortgage papers—officially owning its home.

  • A new classroom expanded Laurel Hill’s reach, welcoming Pre-K students into its thoughtfully crafted, play-based environment.

  • With the help of a dedicated Yard Committee, the school undertook a master plan to revitalize its outdoor spaces. A new stage and gathering area were completed, enriching community life and creative play.

  • Hundreds of alumni gathered to celebrate Laurel Hill’s 50th Anniversary. Among the guests: former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, who joined in honoring the school’s enduring impact.

  • Laurel Hill began rethinking how to better serve modern families—expanding enrollment options, embracing greater diversity, and designing outdoor spaces that met the evolving needs of the community.

  • Laurel Hill marked its 70th Anniversary—still guided by its founding values: community, cooperation, and the transformative power of play.

  • In step with the changing needs of modern families, Laurel Hill continues to grow thoughtfully. A full-time program is introduced, offering greater flexibility for working caregivers. The school deepens its commitment to inclusion, expands enrollment access, and begins reimagining what cooperative participation can look like for a new generation of parents—upholding its founding values while adapting to the rhythms of today’s world.

In a fast-paced world, Laurel Hill offers something rare: a place where parents can slow down and be part of their child’s early education, where children are known, celebrated, and free to grow at their own pace. It’s a tradition nearly 80 years strong—and still growing.

Today, our founding vision feels more relevant than ever.

Grow With Us