Bullis Purissima Charter School - Los Altos, CA

Bullis Charter School (BCS), a K-8 California public school, is located in Los Altos and serves over 700 students. As a model of educational innovation, the BCS program inspires students and staff to reach beyond themselves to achieve full potential. At BCS, teachers develop personalized goals for every student and are empowered to design programs to ensure that each student’s individual abilities and passions are nurtured. In addition to the core S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) curricula, all students have access to a variety of classes including Mandarin, music, drama, as well as a MakerSpace and a FabLab outfitted with state-of-the art tools that promote scientific modeling and computer programming. Through the Project-Based Learning and Design-Thinking processes, students are actively engaged in their learning and are provided ample and meaningful opportunities to develop 21st century skills while addressing real-world issues. Just as they have high expectations for their students, BCS teachers choose to be evaluated and compensated on a staff-created performance-based model, reflecting their commitment to professional growth and educational excellence. Since opening its doors ten years ago, BCS has been ranked in the top three elementary charter schools in the state and twice named a California Distinguished School. In 2014, the school’s signature "Focused Learning Goals" and S.T.E.A.M. practices were singled out for recognition; its Visual and Performing Arts program received the state’s Exemplary Arts Award. The BCS program is committed to developing students who are life-long learners capable of making significant contributions as they emerge into the 21st century.