Old River Elementary School

Both of my sons have attended Old River. My youngest is in the 5th grade now. I am very pleased with the education that they have received at ORS. With there only being grades 4 & 5 it allows for more one on one time with the teachers. The staff in the office is very friendly,especially Carol. The only thing that I do not like is the lack of parent involvement. I attend every PTA mtg, and volunteer when I can, but there are hardly any parents at the meetings.
--Submitted by a parent

this will be my daughters first year here at Old River and i am already disappointed. the Front office staff is very rude, instead of answering my questions face to face she (Susy) who kept insisting that i call her if i had any questions. i dont understand why she couldt answer me right when i was therem she did not seem busy nor where there any other parents enrolling at the time. I asked if we were able to be shown around and since it would be my daughter first time there and she rudely said no, we can come on the first day and look for restrooms, cafefeteria etc. how is someone going to show us onthe first day when im sure it will be a circus. ive also talked to her over the phone and it just seemsn like they want to shew you away, as if we are bothering them.. i will not allow my daughter to come back next year, we are looking to enroll her in a provate school or move out of the district.
--Submitted by a parent

ORS has a mix of apathetic and hard working teachers. An area that is of continued concern is with the administration, it lacks objectivity, leadership, and professionalism. Unfortunately, many strong teachers have transferred to other schools or have elected to leave all together. More emphasis on student achievement, accountability and investment in retaining skilled staff are needed.

I think old river elmentry is a very good school because they have very good supervision and the rules and how they discpline is wonderful.
--Submitted by a student

This is a quality school with a great educational program. Scores can be higher, but they don't reflect school quality.
--Submitted by a parent

Academic program is inferior compared to LA Unified elementary schools (I couldn't believe it myself). There are very limited art, music or cultural programs. No communication or accessibility between teachers and parents, zero. The administration and teachers (minus the principal, she is wonderful) seem like they are drudging through a miserable job that they hate. We came from LA Unified and I was shocked at the apathy in Downey Schools. I could go on and on. My advice upon entering DUSD is look for a private school, I am doing the same.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended ORS for 1 year. ORS is a school where the children come first. Each child is encouraged to do their personal best without being labeled as the smart or dumb kids. The teachers are highly skilled and work hard to bring out the best in each child. The principal is kind and knows each child by name. She is a great example of a leader. Thank you OLR for bringing out the best in my children and giving them the encouragement and confidence they need to go out into the world!
--Submitted by a parent