
Welcome!
Thank you for your interest in our amazing educational community. The School of the Madeleine is a vibrant and inclusive Catholic elementary school with a nearly 90 year tradition of education and service in the city of Berkeley, CA.
The Madeleine provides a modern Catholic education guided by Gospel values, marked by high academic standards, and enhanced by a commitment to social justice. We acknowledge parents as the primary educators of their children, and honor their decision to partner with our school.
With a firm dedication to the education of the whole child – spirit, mind, and body – we strive to embrace our cultural diversity and guide each student to the fulfillment of his or her unique potential.
Our graduates demonstrate self-confidence, resilience, an ingrained love of learning, awe of God’s creation, and a desire to foster peace and justice in the world. Our graduates go on to find success in high school college, and beyond. We welcome you to learn more about our Catholic school in Berkeley!
Sincerely, Joseph Nagel, Principal
Our Mission
The School of the Madeleine is a Catholic elementary school in the heart of Berkeley, California, with the mission of inspiring our students to grow in mind, body and spirit. We believe that every student is exceptional, and our goal is to help our students grow into morally informed individuals, lifelong learners, and compassionate leaders.
Our classrooms provide students with the latest educational opportunities, while our curriculum combines a mix of creativity, critical thinking and communication skills to best prepare students for high school and beyond.
We nurture the spirits of our students through the values of the Catholic faith to serve the community, care for the environment, and strive for social justice. Our school is based on the Dominican Pillars of Prayer, Study, Community, and Service.
Our school was founded in 1937 by the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, and we continue their legacy with nearly 90 years of education and service in Berkeley, California. The School of the Madeleine offers a quality education at an affordable tuition.
Prayer
Madeleine students uphold Gospel values, respect all faiths, and participate in the liturgical life of the school.
Study
Madeleine students communicate clearly, value knowledge, and dedicate themselves to learning.
Community
Madeleine students respect each other, work together, and value diversity.
Service
Madeleine students serve their community, care for the Earth, and strive for social justice.
Supporting Every Learner
Meeting Every Student
With a student-teacher ratio near 10:1, teachers know every child's strengths and gaps. Grades 3 through 5 use a partner-teacher model with two lead teachers in the room, and our TK/K classrooms have a dedicated classroom aide.
Whole-Child Wellness
Our onsite therapist supports students individually and in the classroom, helping build the emotional foundation kids need to learn and grow.
Beyond the Classroom
From Academic Decathlon to MAD Band, MAD Choir, chess club, and five CYO sports, students find their people and their passions at The Madeleine.
California Green Ribbon School
A Green Ribbon School
Solar Panels
On-campus solar installation reducing the school's carbon footprint.
Green Gloves Program
Student-led waste sorting and recycling program reducing landfill waste.
Campus Green Space
Adding more trees and natural areas for student recreation and outdoor classroom space.


