San Geronimo Valley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Geronimo Valley |
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|---|---|
| Naming | |
| Native name | Error {{native name}}: an IETF language tag as parameter {{{1}}} is required (help) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Marin County, California, United States |
| Population centers | |
| Traversed by | Sir Francis Drake Boulevard |
| Rivers | San Geronimo Creek |
The San Geronimo Valley is a beautiful area in Marin County, California. It's made up of four small towns: Woodacre, San Geronimo, Forest Knolls, and Lagunitas. People here are very friendly and connected.
As you travel west through the valley, you'll notice more and more trees. A main road called Sir Francis Drake Boulevard cuts through the valley from east to west. Some streets in the towns were even built where an old train track used to be! The valley is also a great place for outdoor fun, with lots of trails for hiking and biking. Most people live on the south side of the valley, which is shadier and cooler.
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What's in a Name?
The San Geronimo Valley got its name from the San Geronimo Ranch. This ranch was started in 1868 by Adolph Mailliard and Ann Eliza Ward. They raised special horses called thoroughbreds there. One of their most famous horses was a stallion named Monday. He became the father of many racehorses in California!
Learning and Community
The valley is part of the Lagunitas School District. This school district is special because it has two different elementary school programs and a traditional middle school. All these programs are on two campuses that are connected. They share one superintendent, one principal, and one school board.
Different Ways to Learn
Each elementary program has its own unique way of teaching.
- The Open Classroom program encourages students to learn in a more flexible way.
- The Montessori-inspired program uses special materials and methods to help kids learn at their own pace.
Both programs follow California's learning standards. Parents are also encouraged to be involved in their child's education.
Community Hubs
The San Geronimo Valley Community Center is a very important place. It's connected to the school district and is a busy spot for local events. It also helps the community by hosting the local food bank.
Local Businesses and Nature
The valley has several local businesses that serve the community. You can find places like the Papermill Saloon in Forest Knolls, Arti Cafe, Woodacre Market and Deli, and the Lagunitas Grocery.
Woodacre is also home to the Spirit Rock Meditation Center. This center focuses on the teachings of Buddha and a type of meditation called Vipassanā. You can also find Dickson Ranch and the Marin County Fire Department headquarters in Woodacre.
Protecting Nature
The San Geronimo Valley includes most of the Lagunitas Watershed. This is a very important natural area. It's one of the last places where coho salmon come to lay their eggs. Protecting this area helps these special fish survive.
