What kid hasn’t dreamed of becoming a rockstar? The School of Rock, a music education and performance-based school first launched in the late ’90s, makes this a reality.
With over 400 schools worldwide and students of all ages, School of Rock Castro Valley is eager to join the lineup.
School of Rock Castro Valley’s franchise territory includes Castro Valley, Hayward, San Leandro and unincorporated communities in between. Husband and wife Jef and Gail Paderes’ journey in joining the franchise began in 2024, when Jef was finishing his MBA from Saint Mary’s College. Jef’s passion for establishing his own business was reignited.
“Gail and I worked in corporate finance and accounting for more than 20 years,” he said. “We decided that if we were going to pursue business, a franchise would be the best way to go since we didn’t have experience.”
Originally, the couple was considering Mathnasium; however, the location was quickly scooped up. They now view this as a blessing in disguise, since soon after they discovered the School of Rock.
Gail said, “As parents ourselves, we’ve looked and placed our three kids in activities ranging from art, sports, music and tutoring. Our kids went to School of Rock in San Ramon and really enjoyed the experience. Music has been one area that we really enjoy as a family, from watching concerts, jamming at home and karaoke nights. We feel that music is a universal language that can be shared across cultures.”
In April 2024, they began exploring the franchise, attended a few meetings in Chicago and by September 2024 they had signed on. They held their ribbon cutting in January of 2026.
While most music lessons begin with music theory before instrument playing, the School of Rock’s method is the opposite. Jef explained, “Our approach is to teach them how to play first because that’s the fun part. Once you know how to play, you have a better appreciation of the theories, which are as important towards a student’s progression and musical journey.”
The program is year-round and divided into three seasons of four months, but students can join at any time depending on their age and/or skill level.
Since the School of Rock has a set of 1,500 licensed-to-teach songs, each season has a theme, from ’70s punk rock to ’90s British invasion rock and more. Classes are based on age group: Little Wing (3 to 5 year olds), Rookies (6 to 7 year olds), Rock 101 (8 to 13 year olds), Performance (14 to 18 year olds), and an Adult Program (18+). Rock 101 and Performance students perform live at local venues throughout the season.
“What separates us from other music schools is the performance-based concept,” said Gail. “Not only do students meet with the instructor, but they rehearse together as a band. It makes learning much quicker and more effective.”
The goal is to have students level up, much like an actual school where students rise from grade to grade until graduation. Jef said, “We have a saying: we don’t teach music to put on shows. We put on shows to teach music. That experience of being onstage is part of the learning process.”
School of Rock Castro Valley had their first season show on Feb. 7 at Chanticleers Theatre. According to Jef and Gail, it was a very successful first show, where students played songs that they had been practicing with their respective bands in front of a sold out venue and packed house.
Opening up a School of Rock has allowed Gail and Jef to witness growth from their students in real time. Gail said, “One of our earliest students in Rock 101 was a shy girl. You could tell she was feeling nervous during her first class. During those first rehearsals, she was using the drum pad instead of the drum kit. But as weeks went on, I couldn’t believe the progression she was making and the confidence she showed. Now, when I see her with her band, I feel like she’s leading the group, even welcoming and helping new band members.”
Jef experienced a different kind of growth from the Rookies. Since the age level is much younger, the kids were more hyperactive. He said, “The challenge was having them sit and listen. But in a short period of time, they’ve matured. You’ll be amazed by these six to seven-year-old kids who can play a Green Day song together.”
The program not only helps students grow into better musicians, but also more well-rounded individuals.
The School of Rock is certain to become a beloved fixture in Castro Valley. Gail said, “We feel we’ve given an outlet for students to be themselves, have fun and get away from other things that life or society burdens us with.”
More importantly, the program prioritizes friendships and authentic connections. Jef said, “What I want our school to be known for is building community. You’re not just a student, parent or instructor here. We try to know each person individually.”
School of Rock Castro Valley
20444 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
