The John Muir School's practices and curriculum are guided by the following principles of learning and community.

• Children learn new concepts in relationship to previous knowledge and experience
• The construction of knowledge by the child leads to comprehensive, authentic learning
• Interaction with the natural world supports academic growth
• Arts serve as the human expression of beauty allowing children to honor and communicate their experience
• Positive social relationships are essential to a successful learning community
• Small schools enhance student comfort and learning
• The behavior of children indicates their emotional comfort and the community's health
• The teacher's art is to create a stimulating atmosphere and participate as a learner