Aldama Elementary School

My son is in the dual program at Aldama Elementary and I couldn't ask for more in terms of learning Spanish as a second language, being connected to a network of supportive and caring neighborhood families and with a faculty and administrator who are committed to ensuring that children care about and find meaning in what they are learning. My son is not only gaining a fantastic educational experience, he is also living and learning with children from diverse cultural, linguistic and economic backgrounds. The realities of our city and community are at his doorstep and everyone's experience and cultural norms are becoming his. This experience is priceless and our family feels so fortunate to have this opportunity in our very own neighborhood. Our school brings families of Northeast Los Angeles together! And... Abuelita is proud of her only grandchild who knows how to speak Spanish :)!
--Submitted by a parent

Exciting things are happening in the Dual Language program in terms of teacher training, thanks to the efforts of the teachers themselves who are very motivated. The school principal is wonderful- warm, yet with great executive abilities and accesable to parents. The facility itself is clean, airy and bright. There is parent participation in the Dual Language program primarily through the PTA- who fundraises for enrichment programs- however parent participation and collaboration does not extend to the classroom. Parents are discouraged at the onset from visiting the classroom and there is no regular communication from the teachers about what is going on there. Classroom management techniques consist of the standard LAUSD behavior "color card" system and teachers are not trained in methods that better promote social and emotional intelligence. The curriculum also does not appear to be project based. The Dual language program has its pluses and minuses. Overall, it is an above average program with room for improvement
--Submitted by a parent

We are in our first year at Aldama Elementary, in the Kindergarten Dual Language Program. The two teachers who teach the Dual Language program are SO enthusiastic and dedicated to ensuring the kids succeed, not just in acquiring two languages, but also in reading, writing, math, everything! They have been BUSY spending summers and weekends doing training and workshops - one at Columbia University on a reading/writing workshop, and also locally, a new approach to math instruction. They work together with the support and leadership of the principal to crosstrain with the other dual language staff to make sure there is continuity for students in teaching approaches and that all teachers can share successful techniques. The dual language program here has real vision, and most importantly, the leadership at the school to make the vision a reality. I also have to say that there is a supportive and involved PTA at work on enrichment programs for the students. We are very happy so far! Go Aldama!
--Submitted by a parent

I can't express enough how amazing this school is. We are now in our fourth year at Aldama with two children in attendance. They both have amazing teachers! The staff and Ms Naval in particular work very hard at their job and improving our school. Coach Williams and the PTA continue to make Aldama fun for the kids. Ms Alvarez makes Aldama feel like a home. She nurtures and loves each one of our children. I am so glad we chose our local school instead of a charter. Our girls are in a great place. Thank you Aldama!
--Submitted by a parent

Aldama's dual language program Spanish-English program is on the leading edge of education in Los Angeles. With excellent teachers, a strongly supportive principal and highly involved parents, students are getting 21st century skills and top-notch education. As a parent at the school, I don't have experience with the regular elementary classes but know that the benefits of dual language are transferring to the whole school in fundraising, parental involvement and buzz. Aldama has been featured in the Los Angeles Times and gotten strong support from current and former school board members.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter is in kindergarden and for the first time is having a very difficult time. The school doesn't seem to be welcoming or helpful with it's new students. My daughter is now suffering with anxiety because she feels lost when she gets to school. There is no structure and really hardly any supervision.
--Submitted by a parent

Our Daughter is in kindergarden and she's learning so much...The teachers and principal are all caring.... Most of the parents are involved. Could not ask for more
--Submitted by a parent

Aldama's Dual Language program is great. My son loves it. Every day he comes with a new lesson learn in Spanish.
--Submitted by a parent

Aldama has fabulous community involvement, and the Spanish/English dual immersion program is such an woderful asset!
--Submitted by a parent

Aldama's Dual Language program has been great for my 1st grade son. The teachers and principal are terrific!
--Submitted by a parent