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.