El Cerrito Elementary School

My children were here for one year and I couldn't rescue them from El Cerrito fast enough. The school demographics has got to be somewhere near 90% Hispanic and the teacher for my oldest had her teaching the other kids how to read and speak English. Sorry, but my second graders should not be teaching others, it is her time to learn! Both of my kids were so behind that by the next school year, it took nearly a semester for them to catch up at their new school. The few teachers I did encounter were detached and disinterested in the educational process. The facility was rundown and too many things were broken.
--Submitted by a parent

The school has high expectations for all students regardless of race or other special needs.
--Submitted by a parent

I am extremely happy with the level of education my son is receiving at El Cerrito. The teachers are all outstanding! The only downfall about this school is the lack of parent involvement in the PTA. In a 5 star rating, I would give El Cerrito 4 1/2 stars.
--Submitted by Cathy Mitchell, a parent

The qualilty of academic programs is not as strong as they have been in past years. There are no opportunites to be exposed to the arts, music or sport activities. Non English speaking parents feel frustrated due to lack of support with communication in their language.
--Submitted by a parent

School is a strong school in an area with diverse demographics. Teachers are strong. Great experience for our child in a looping situation between a first and second grade teacher. They know their stuff!
--Submitted by a parent

El Cerrito is a good school with good Teacher's. The only problem I had with this school is the Office Secretary. Other than that the school is great!
--Submitted by a parent

Our experience at El Cerrito this past year was great. We were concerned about the local public school vs. the private school our child had attended for pre-school. We were pleasantly surprised. There was extra help for those who were not prepared for kindergarten and special attention to those students who were more advanced. My child's teacher could not have been more encouraging. When you hear about budget cuts you worry about the quality of education. Our child went on four field trips (the Children's Museum, the library, the local pet shop, and the police dept.), had computers in the classroom, supplies and special events. The children were recognized for so many different academic achievenments and talents. The only negative I found about this school was the lack of parent participation. There were 20 active parents in the PTA (for a school of 500)that helped make things happen. More volunteers are needed.
--Submitted by a parent

There are some really great teachers in this school. They show a great ability in teaching, keeping the class in order, and the kids interested (which can be tough). My son always came home with positive feedback regarding his teachers (two of the best I might add). My suggestion to any parent is, if your child is having a problem with another child, address it immediately with the staff. Never let it go and snowball, I learned that the hard way. Our kids go in as shy small children and come out strong readers and leaders.