X-CARE at Berkwood Hedge School
X-CARE is an eXtended care program designed to eXtend the values of Berkwood Hedge School—curiosity, creativity, connection, courage, and joy—into the after-school hours, and open to all students in grades K-5. The “X” honors the spirit of eXpansion, eXploration, eXpression, and cross-community connection, as we welcome students from neighboring BUSD and independent schools in Berkeley and beyond to our campus.
Program Features
The X-CARE program offers a caring and engaging environment where students can explore their passions, form meaningful community connections, and thrive as curious learners. Led by a dedicated team of experienced staff, our thoughtfully designed program includes options for self-directed free play, structured indoor and outdoor activities, homework club, and a selection of unique enrichment classes available at an additional cost. This loose yet consistent framework encourages choice and personal expression, while ensuring the daily needs of each student are met. At snack time, students enjoy freshly-prepared food such as spaghetti, bean dip with pita, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
X-CARE takes place at Berkwood Hedge School's Lower School, located at 1809 Bancroft Way in Central Berkeley. The school is conveniently located across the street from Washington Elementary.
Daily Rhythms & Routines
Our X-CARE staff meet students at Washington Elementary each day and walk them across the street to Berkwood Hedge School. Students' time on campus begins with a healthy snack and story time with our resident storyteller, before transitioning into time for crafts, games, homework club, and reading. After Berkwood Hedge School's dismissal at 3:00pm (K-1) and 3:30pm (grades 2-4), the X-CARE and Berkwood Hedge ASP merge, becoming one joyful after school community. Following another hearty snack and engaging story, all students can enjoy free play in the sandbox and play structure, join a game of basketball, soccer, or four square, draw or paint, cozy up with a book in the library, or take part in one of our seasonal enrichment classes. The last hour of the day is devoted to games, art, and reading and quiet time in our library.
Schedule & Fees
The 2025-2026 X-CARE program follows the BUSD academic calendar, from August 13, 2025 to June 4, 2026. Schedules for 2, 3, and 5 days/week are available. Hours begin at either 1:30pm or 2:25pm, depending on your child's school dismissal time, and end at 6:00pm. Wednesday early dismissal times will be accommodated regardless of schedule and do not count toward rate calculations. Schedules should be chosen based on your student's Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday dismissal times.
The following schedule options are available:
1:30pm - 6:00pm
2 days/week (T, TH): $600/month, $6,000/year
3 days/week (M, W, F): $850/month, $8,500/year
5 days/week (M - F): $1,200/month, $12,000/year
2:25pm - 6:00pm
2 days/week (T, TH): $525/month, $5,250/year
3 days/week (M, W, F): $750/month, $7,500/year
5 days/week (M - F): $1,100/month, $11,000/year
Tuition is paid in 10 equal installments, billed monthly. There is $50 registration/administrative fee. Priority will be given to full-time contracts. We also offer full-day care for X-CARE program participants (8 AM – 6 PM) on select BUSD days off (10/6, 10/31, 1/26, 2/13, 3/16, 5/15) at $150/day or $850/annually.
Inquire & Apply
Families can begin the registration process for X-CARE at Berkwood Hedge School by inquiring for more information or filling out an Application Form, which gives us a chance to get to know your child and your family. We cannot wait to welcome new friends to the X-CARE community!
X-CARE FAQs
Why are you expanding your program?
Berkwood Hedge School is a private school with a public purpose. X-CARE expands access to our pedagogy and learning environment—infusing every afternoon with curiosity, creativity, connection, courage, and joy—all while addressing a pressing need for safe and joyful after-school programming for Berkeley families.
What if my child does not attend Washington Elementary?
Families from other schools who would like to attend X-CARE may arrange transportation independently. BUSD may provide limited transportation (TBD), and services like HopSkipDrive or Kango are options for families.
What enrichment classes do you offer?
Enrichment classes change from season to season, but popular past classes include Coding, Lego Robotics, Herbalism, Dungeons & Dragons, Comic Book Drawing, Choreography & Dance, Woodworking, and Learning To Play Pokémon. These are specialized, fee-based classes taught by either Berkwood Hedge School staff or specialist guest teachers.
Do you offer tuition assistance?
We are not offering tuition assistance for X-CARE at this time.
Where can I get more information?
Please contact us at [email protected] for more details or with questions about our program.