Old Firehouse School

Our program is based on a solid foundation of scientific theory, research and professional practice in the field of child development. Our directors are highly skilled professionals who understand child development and respect children as individuals. Their concern is wide and deep, for they care about “the whole child”: heart, mind, spirit and body.

Open House Registration for 2025

Register with the link below to register for to attend an open house of the campus you prefer.

East Bay:

Lafayette & Walnut Creek

North Bay:

Mill Valley, Fifth Avenue (San Rafael), Bayview Wildlife & Nature School (San Rafael)

We Have Openings at Mill Valley and Bayview Campuses for children ages 2-5,
and at San Rafael 5th Avenue Campus, bilingual programs for children ages 1-4.

Register today to attend an open house!

At Old Firehouse School we believe that the “quality” of one’s childhood predicts much about the “quality” of one’s future. Therefore, our goal is to give each child in our care a childhood rich in the kinds of experiences and relationships which optimally prepare them for their life’s journey.

The Old Firehouse Schools are private preschools, founded in 1996 in Lafayette by Dr. Dorothy Stewart and her husband Bob Buhl. OFS Mill Valley opened in 2004; OFS Walnut Creek opened in 2006; and, OFS San Rafael Fifth Avenue opened in 2022. In September 2024, we are opening yet another school—the wildlife/nature Bayview school in San Rafael. We expect to have over 250 families in all five schools in the next school year. 

Our program is based on a solid foundation of scientific theory, research and professional practice. Key features of Old Firehouse School are:

• Primary Caregiving and Continuity of Care

• The Project Approach

• Inspiration from Reggio Emilia, Italy

Our teaching staff are professionally prepared early childhood educators. Each one has chosen early childhood education as his/her long-term career.

Building relationships is the foundation of our work. We place strong emphasis on the bonds between children and teachers, teachers and parents, and children themselves. Our life together at OFS reflects a delicate and intricate web of social, emotional and intellectual skills that transforms the whole child into a well balanced member of society.