Sycamore's philosophy of being a student-centered educational institution has evolved for over a century. Three specific milestones have shaped Sycamore's direction.
* During the 1960s, Sycamore received a Ford Foundation grant in which its multi-age philosophy was reaffirmed.
* In 1993, Sycamore was awarded a SB 1274 Restructuring Grant to extend its innovative program.
* In 1999, Sycamore was recognized as a California Distinguished School
Highlights of Sycamore's learning community are:
narrative progress reports
student self-directed learning
joint goal-setting conferences with child, parent and teacher
student led conferences
multiple measures assessment (including classroom generated rubrics)
regularly scheduled curriculum planning sessions
multiple intelligences learning strategies
shared decision-making by all school stakeholders
and involvement of parents and community members in classroom activities.
