Lupin Hill Elementary's schoolyard habitat project is moving into a new phase in 2025-26, with two back fields being converted into an outdoor learning lab and orchard. The project is student-facing and curriculum-connected — it isn't just landscaping. The school's Instagram (@lupinhill_elementary) has been documenting the transformation and posts regularly on campus life. Reviews from current Lupin Hill parents in 2024-25 specifically called out the new principal as "bringing warmth and excellence," suggesting the campus made a leadership transition in the last year or two that has been well-received by families.

Q1. What is the "Learn by Living" program at Lupin Hill?

Ans. It's the school's defining academic approach — every learning space on campus is designed to give students access to real-world, hands-on problem-based experiences rather than purely textbook-based instruction. It's not a single class or elective; it's baked into how all subjects are taught across all grades. The National Wildlife Foundation certified the school's outdoor habitat as part of this same philosophy.

Q2. What is the NWF Certified Schoolyard Habitat, and what does it mean for students?

Ans. Lupin Hill's grounds were officially certified by the National Wildlife Foundation as a schoolyard habitat — a recognition that the campus actively supports local wildlife through native plantings and environmental design. Students participate in maintaining the habitat as part of their science curriculum. The school is currently transforming two back fields into an outdoor learning lab and orchard, which is a continuation of this same initiative.

Q3. Does Lupin Hill offer a morning exercise program?

Ans. Yes — the school runs a morning mile program before class where students can come early and run laps to earn charms. It's voluntary, but parent reviews suggest it's quite popular and contributes to the positive before-school energy on campus. Students who participate tend to have an easier transition into the school day.

Q4. How does Lupin Hill compare to other LVUSD elementary schools academically?

Ans. Lupin Hill ranks #2 among all nine ranked elementary schools in LVUSD on SchoolDigger, and sits in the top 7.5% of all California elementary schools. The math scores are the highest at 67% proficiency among the Calabasas neighborhood schools — ahead of Bay Laurel (52%), Chaparral (65%), and Round Meadow (69% though that's also above Lupin Hill's reading). It's a genuinely high-performing campus despite not being the most well-known one in the district.

Q5. What is the after-school situation at Lupin Hill?

Ans. After-school care runs through LVUSD Plus. The school also has a PTSA that organizes events including movie nights and trunk-or-treat activities. The school communicates primarily through ParentSquare — downloading it before the school year starts is the easiest way to stay on top of Lupin Hill's schedule and announcements.