Casillas (Joseph) Elementary School

I am very frustrated with this school, the teachers and especially the principal who seems to have his focus on everything but education. The school is all about adequacy, making sure the highest number of kids pass the minimum required standards. Teachers don t stray from the EXACT same lesson plans they've used year over year project/event flyers sent home are often incorrect because they neglect to review and change the dates from the dates for the prior school year - the ultimate in lazy teaching. The principal obviously has aspirations above his current position as he has latched on to a "platform" of healthy snacks in schools and has made that his singular focus. I don't even recall the last time he had a communication about actually providing educational challenge to his students. High achievers have met minimum standards, in the schools eyes they don t seem to be worth focusing on. Your child is bored with the constant repetitive review of the same topic over and over - too bad, they will not make efforts to challenge them, that is simply not the way the grade's "teaching team" works (i.e. - we don't have a worksheet for that that we can photocopy....)
--Submitted by a parent

As a parent of third grade student we are excited about the progress and growth our son has made. The school provides a balance of academics, social, and emotional growth. The Principal, Mr. Merlin is a kind and warm hearted person. The community is involved and celebrates studentssuccess.
--Submitted by a parent

Outstanding teachers and very involved parents. Our son went Kindergarten through Sixth Grade and every teacher was a winner.
--Submitted by a parent

We love the FANTASTIC TEACHERS! the GREAT STAFF! and the WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS AND PARENTS!
--Submitted by a parent

the teachers are awesome, they have on-site before and after school care and even though it's a k-6 school, it really feel like a small private school!
--Submitted by a parent

The students are wonderful and the parents are great.
--Submitted by a parent

It is an honor to be parents of a child attending the 4th grade at Casillas (Joseph) Elementary School. Casillas is a school that holds its children responsible for learning by doing the best that they can do. It is a school that embraces and respects the needs, the desires, the dreams and the ambitions of each child. Parent participation and involvement inspires others to join in. Teachers are approachable, caring, knowing, and seem to love thier jobs. School starts sharp a 7:45. At 8:00 am the school gates are locked, campus is very quiet with the children already at task, learning. Can't say enough of how blessed we have been to be able to have our child attend this FANTASTIC, GREAT, WONDERFUL school.
--Submitted by a parent

I loved having my son at this school. Great teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is entering Kinder this year and I'm looking forward to a great experience for us. I have an older son who attended Casillas and I know first hand what a great principal we have. Mr. Damico is very approachable and genuinely concerned for students, parents, staff and the direction of the school. We are lucky to have him and the teachers that are there.
--Submitted by a parent

We love Casillas! The Principal, Mr. Damico, is wonderful! He is so approachable and makes you and your children feel important. He listens and handles any issues you may have. My son was in Kindergarten in 2006-2007 and did great! Loved the teacher and we can't believe how much he has learned in a year! We are looking forward to 1st grade!
--Submitted by a parent