One Hundred Fifty-Sixth Street Elementary School

I don't often write on sites like this, but felt it necessary to write in support of 156th street elementary school teachers and principal after reading the last review. I have had wonderful experiences with several teachers as well as the new principal.They have been responsive to requests as well as open to suggestions. I have spent time volunteering in classrooms and witnessed first hand the effective work that they do. Unfortunately, change can often be difficult for people to embrace. I encourage other parents to be involved as much as possible and to work to be part of the solution rather than to bring negativity and drag others down. I also challenge the dissatisfied parent to find a better school than 156th. There is an extensive wait list for many parents who DO want their children to have the coveted opportunity to attend our EXCELLENT school!
--Submitted by a parent

156th Street School was a great school until Principal Sidra Dudley took the reins. Since her tenure, many parents and I have noticed a significant increase in problems with the school. I have two special needs children that attend the school and problems have arisen with regards to bullying, homework, and the treatment of my kids. I raised concerns with their teachers and the principal but I've noticed that nothing gets done. Nowadays the principal is nowhere to be found. Unlike Ms. Kim, who was available, attentive, efficient, and effective, Ms. Dudley cowardly avoids parental confrontations. The only time you'll find her is when she's soliciting money from you. With the exception of one amazing teacher, the teachers that have taught my children are biased and do not monitor the children's progress very well. Instead of working with me to find solutions to help my kids, they complain. The YDP program is a mess. My kids are bullied and forced to play even if they feel ill. Stay away from 156th if you want your kids to thrive. Find a school that will give your kids the enrichment and attention that they need to succeed.
--Submitted by a parent

No Brainer! Too many positive things about 156th St. Elementary School. Strong Academic Primary School that begins with Pre-school up to, now, 6th grade. They have a small, good Special Ed. class that monitors students progress. Mrs. Esther Kim, one of the best Principals that I have the pleasure to work with in the PTA. She is a very active participant in many aspects your child's academics. She has a 0 tolerance for bullying and will respond immediately. This school is proactive, safe and an excellent school. It's no winder why they are one of the few schools Nationally recognized with the "Blue Ribbon Award" in 2009-2010. This is an accolade that is awarded upon to only a very small percentage of schools nationwide. 156th St. School even normally has been labelled a "California Distinguished School. Last semester, only 336 students in enrollment compared to area schools 500 up to more than 700 students. More attention per student = better academic scores. Don't pass up this school of CHOICE. Your child's future is dependent on it socially,and economically.
--Submitted by a parent

Both of my boys attend 156th street school, they excel in their academics. The teachers and administration are great.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has gone here for 3 years, so far it is the best school, I've seen.
--Submitted by a parent

I love that this school is small. Very good API scores. The principal seems to know most students. My son has participated in ceramics, drama, dance and music. The writing program is weak. Parents would like this school to become K-8, but there is resistance from the leadership on school site and at district level.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent after-school and extracurricular programs like academic tutoring, storybook nights, and educational field trips. The principal at this school is very fair and approachable. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a safe, well-organized, and intelligent environment for their child.
--Submitted by a parent

A small neighborhood school with a community feeling. The PTA is not as large and strong as it once was but it does a lot of activities. There are many opportunities for parents to get involved if they choose because the PTA always needs more volunteers. An academically strong program due to dedicated teachers. Intervention, tutoring, and homework help available. Its a traditional track school and still has a large playground not downsized by too many bungalows.
--Submitted by a staff

156th street School has been an excellent school for my 3 children. The teachers and principal are all loving, strict, empowering and have given my children the necessary guidance to succeed not only academically but socially. My children have gained amazing insight into community values, leadership skills, personal responsibility, intellectual reasoning, compassion for classmates, the environment and their community. Parental involvement is outstanding compared to the other 5 schools in the area. A+ to 156th Street School!
--Submitted by jeri Wilson, a parent