Mariposa Elementary School of Global Education School

We had high hopes for this Waldorf based school, sadly, it has fallen short. If you are easily led, blindly through the education system, if you do as you're told and don't make waves, if you believe that being "alternative" is more important than a solid education for your child, if you are naive enough to think that your child will succeed without a great education - that somehow through osmosis your child will become well-rounded - than this school might be perfect for you! The parents here are deluded into thinking that they are somehow doing better by their children. Those who are smart or experienced enough see the test scores and what's happening in the upper grades and silently worry that they made a bad decision, but it's too late for them. Unless you are committed to an alt education for the long haul, straight through high school, I would highly reconsider Mariposa. Lucikly for the children there, the unprofessional, crunchy Pied-Piper principal is on his way out and a new, seemingly more professional one will take his place. Perhaps then, the school will begin to live up to it's false reputation. I truly hope so, because the potential for a great school is there!
--Submitted by a parent

American elementary education at its best! The principal is awesome!!! "Ja wohl, mein Fuhrer!" - if you don't know what it means - Mariposa is right for you.
--Submitted by a parent

We are so fortunate to be a Mariposa family! If your child is suffering in the typical public school's "race to nowhere" - emphasizing standardized tests instead of focusing on children's authentic learning and development - please know that there is a public school that has its priorities straight, and is dedicated to providing children with a meaningful school experience. Thank you, Mariposa teachers, staff, and School Coordinator - you are a beacon of light for the future.
--Submitted by a parent

My children have been at Mariposa since the beginning. The principal and teachers are incredibly dedicated to respecting and teaching the whole child. There has always been special emphasis placed on teaching "Mariposa Manners", which encompasses manners, kindness, respect of others and yourself and global awareness. This is an amazing and kind group of kids and parents. The academics are done in an interesting and meaningful way. My kids LOVE going to school, each day.
--Submitted by a parent

Whether it is the focus on healthy lunches, the commitment to keep commercial icons off of kids clothing at school, or just how the kids treat each other, Mariposa is committed to a strong, safe development environment. Mariposa can a little "crunchy" at times. There is a strong contingent of "progressive" values that sometimes border on being hippie like. That is good and bad. Some of the parents cannot talk about school lunches without getting emotional about the fact that they should be organic or raw. On the other hand, if came to the school to brag about who you know or what you have, your child would have an open play date calendar quickly. (Good) Another mixed bag is the entrepenuerial status of the school. Mariposa is taking on new education approaches (i.e. Singapore Math, Teachers with same class from 1st to 3rd grade). With that, there is uncertainty and risk. You have to be comfortable with that to be there, because if you wanted the standard approach there are plenty of functioning alternatives in the Las Virgenes School District already. Overall this is fun to be a part of. As a parent I am with my Mariposa child every step of the adventure.
--Submitted by a parent

This school provides a new approach to education. A more develomental alternative!. My kids are so happy with Mariposa Elementary School of Global Education!
--Submitted by a parent

My son thrives in this nurturing environment. It's not only a wonderful program, it's an inspiring one!
--Submitted by a parent

I love that the school is teaching my child about how to resolve conflicts peacefully.
--Submitted by a parent

I love that the children learn about nature, take nature hikes and meet with naturalists often. My daughter loves to come home and tell me all about what she learned on her field trips and lectures with naturalists. She learns more about nature and has an appreciation for the environment and its living things. The teachers at her school are amazing. They are kind, patient and take their time with children. I feel I found a real gem with this school. I'm grateful my child is thriving in this environment.
--Submitted by a parent

Because they support each child individually with respect and love. They teach a unique style and empower the children to global community thinking.
--Submitted by a parent