Tips for a Relaxed Application & Admission Process

Application season has just begun for the 2025 -26 school year.  At Del Mar Pines School, we offer a community where each child can thrive and families feel connected. We want all parents submitting an application to feel prepared and as relaxed as possible, when going through our application and admissions process. Here are a few tips to make this part of parenting a little easier. 

1. Start Soon with our Fast and Easy Online > Inquiry Form

Before beginning the application process, familiarize yourself with Del Mar Pines School's philosophy, programs, and community culture. We are a non-denominational Kindergarten through sixth grade elementary school located in Carmel Valley, a community in San Diego California. 

Many families appreciate the Del Mar Pines small class sizes and its nurturing environment, which allows children to receive individual attention from dedicated teachers. If you think DMP is a good fit for your child, click on the red Inquire Now button on our website and complete the brief contact form. 

Once we receive your inquiry, you will be contacted to schedule a personal conversation with our Director, Marci McCord to learn more about your child and answer any questions you may have about our special school. Please don’t delay as we have limited spots and don’t want you to miss out. We do review applications throughout the year with interviews and assessments typically scheduled in January. 

2. Gather Necessary Documents

To streamline the application process, start by reviewing the Del Mar Pines School Admissions page, submit the online application, download the required forms and gather all required documents early. 

• Complete an online application form (with application fee)
• Collect Academic records or evaluations from your child’s current school or preschool.
• Request a recent teacher recommendation (please use our downloadable form).
• Gather any relevant testing or assessment results (if applicable).

Having these materials organized will help you meet any application deadlines and ensure a smooth review process. Applying early is very important as we have limited slots and sadly we can’t take all applicants.

3. Plan for a Relaxed Student Assessment and Parent Interview

While the idea of a student evaluation and parent interview may feel a little scary, it's not. We are kind and do our best to make this important step in your child's education adventure feel relaxed and casual.  The Del Mar Pines School assessment is designed to gauge your child’s readiness for the school’s curriculum and evaluate their social and emotional development. 

The admissions process also includes a parent interview, where you will discuss your goals for your child’s education and learn more about how Del Mar Pines School can support your family. This conversation is a great opportunity to ask questions about DMP’s curriculum, programs and extracurricular activities. Student assessments for siblings of current students begin in December. Evaluation and interviews for all new applicants start in January.

Navigating the application process is an important step in your child's educational journey. By following these three steps, you can approach the process with confidence. Del Mar Pines School offers an opportunity for your child to develop lifelong skills in a nurturing and inclusive setting. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff for any guidance—we are here to help you every step of the way.