Character & Whole Child Development
Academic growth matters, and self-awareness and character are just as if not more essential for a productive and meaningful life.
At BHA, we help students discover who they are and build confidence through emotional awareness, physical conditioning, and collaborative play. We also help shape their character by instilling values of integrity, self-discipline, resilience, respect, gratitude and service through every day responsibilities and interactions.
We teach these tenets and values in simple, practical ways:
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Connecting with nature and oneself through morning exercise
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Supporting and being thoughtful of one another on field trips or at school
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Washing our own dishes after lunch
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Cleaning our school together every Friday
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Expressing thanks to parents and mentors
Morning Exercise & P.E.
Morning calisthenics are essential for preparing both the mind and body for a day of learning. Rooted in Chinese tradition, this practice not only instills strength and energy in our students but also promotes physical conditioning and mental calm. It lays the groundwork for social-emotional skills, contributing to the holistic development of each child and fostering character education. Embrace the benefits of this daily routine for a productive day ahead.
Chores & Responsibilities
At BHA, students engage in meaningful chores, fostering a sense of discipline and community. These activities are designed instill values of character, respect, and gratitude, helping students grow not only academically but also personally. By participating in these shared responsibilities, students learn the importance of contributing to their environment and supporting one another. This holistic approach prepares them for success in all aspects of life.
Weekly Educational Field Trips
On weekly field trips we explore San Francisco—our extended classroom. From Chinatown to the Golden Gate Bridge, our students learn history, science, art, and real-world awareness.
Outdoor Education (and beyond!)
We visit Florence Fang Community Farm every three weeks, getting our hands dirty while learning about urban agriculture.
Each spring, students take a 3-day retreat to a nature ranch.
And in 2026, we’ll embark on our first student trip to China—a chance to use what we’ve learned in the world.
