Jefferson Elementary School

Jefferson has a wonderful spirit and culture. The IB program teaches respect for diversity, and it is reflected in the relative harmony amongst the students of different races and socio-economic backgrounds. We have been lucky to have gotten the best teachers every year. The only reason that I have 4 stars instead of 5 is that Jefferson is really struggling with budget issues that are eroding its wonderful programs. Because of the population, there are not the same PTA funds pouring in to fill the gaps left by the economic crisis the district is facing. All grades are at 34 students per classroom. That's just insane for a 1st grade classwhere children need to become proficient readers.
--Submitted by a parent

I just LOVE Jefferson! It's honestly a great school; and I recommend it for all kids who like cool field trips, funny teachers, and awesome friends. First of all, the kids there are super-cool. They tell funny jokes, they aren't lazy, and they're just awesome. Besides, they like new students, and are willing to make friends with them--and there are NO fights at all! Next, the teachers there are funny and well-liked. They're also diverse, and some of them were Jefferson students when they were kids. Additionally, there are some really awesome field trips, such as BizTown, Wild Animal Park, and even the Harding Guest House--and don't forget the beach field trip at the end of the year! Finally, it's where memories are made. You'll always remember it as one of the best schools ever. It'll be in your heart. And that's a promise!

Jefferson Elementary offers their students an amazing, well rounded education that is based on encouraging students to discover and participate in their community and the world around them. The teachers work together to provide cross curriculum instruction, so the children get to experience art, music, literature, science, math, history, and social studies in each and every subject. The learning environment is dynamic and interesting, and the children are happy! This school is socio-economically and racially diverse, and students learn to embrace and celebrate diversity, not to be afraid of it. The parents are incredibly active in all facets of school life, and it is warmly and enthusiastically encouraged by the principal and staff. With the establishment of the International Baccalaureate program, Jefferson has managed to set the bar so high, that it could easily compete with programs that are typically only offered in a specialized, private school setting. You can just feel the pride and enthusiasm of the students, faculty, staff, and parents. It makes all the difference for my children to attend a school where they are challenged to grow and are still valued as people!
--Submitted by a parent

I attended Jefferson Elementary and I can honestly say that the faculty are some of the best around. It was there that my interest in playing music was cultivated as I learned to read music and play the saxophone, which I continued to play into middle school. It was a kind of place where no matter what classroom you stepped into you were genuinely interested in what was being taught because there the teachers love what they do, and it shows.

Inquiry based learning, great teachers, awesome Principal and staff, character development and community participation.
--Submitted by a parent

I love the International Baccalaureate Program and the inquiry based learning opportunities the children have. It's a great school!
--Submitted by a parent

We are an International Baccalaureate program where kids learn by asking questions, research , group projects and hands on projects as opposed to the traditional worksheet packets given on Monday due on Friday. The program and staff allow even children who aren't traditionally academic be successful by providing a different type of learning. Learning through experience. Way better than any packet could do!
--Submitted by a parent

I put my son in Jefferson just for the full day kindergarden at first but after having such a great year in the school i could not imagine him anywhere else.This is a great school with lots of extras and it shows.I could not be more happy!
--Submitted by a parent

My son is in Kindergarden at Jefferson and I couldn't be more thrilled with the education he's getting.
--Submitted by a parent

Jefferson has been a wonderful school for my daughter. She is a high achieving student and designated gate. The programs the school offers are well rounded. Besides basic academics, she receives art, music, physical education, and commputer instruction in her 'specials' classes. The diversity at Jefferson also offers her a different perspective and the opportunity to relate with children of all ethnicities. She is involved in the writing club with our very own story queen, Shelly Thomas who is a published children's author. The teachers at Jefferson reach out to all children of all abilities to enhance their learning and challange them daily. Because our school has alot of english learners, I was concerned about my child not being pushed to her abilities. She has received a fine education, and scored 100% on her math state test last year!
--Submitted by a parent