Adult to pupil ratios are lowered during various instructional times. Individual and small group instruction is made possible through the support of trained parents. Students are encouraged to apply critical thinking and problem solving in all curricular areas. The curriculum content follows state and additional district guidelines, and includes opportunities for enrichment. The Cornerstone program revolves around a yearly theme.
Themes are all-encompassing and integrate social studies, science and language arts.
Students go on several field trips throughout the year. Lifeskills and respect for diversity are a vital part of the curriculum. The teachers provide instruction to the class as a whole, while personalizing instruction to meet the developmental and academic needs of each student in the classroom. The three teachers in the Cornerstone Family School Program also team teach and coordinate activities involving all grades. As an alernative program of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, Cornerstone is equally open to all students residing in the district.