Santa Fe Elementary School

The scene at this school is very sad and the pledge in the morning is really a waste of time. The principal- Mrs. Johnson - should spend that 5 minutes every morning reading books on how to discipline students effectively. They are out of control with fights taking place throughout the day. One can visit the cafeteria at lunch time to get a look at how things take place. I witnessed a 1st grade girl get slapped in the face by a boy and it is my prediction that the young man will not even get suspended because of the weak position that the school has on disobedient students. I would definitely not recommend a parent bring their child to this school for their safety. The Reading Proficiency of the school is at 27.5% and the Math Proficiency is 36.1% so it's not very productive academically either.
--Submitted by a teacher

Santa Fe School has been a wonderful experience for my child. The teachers hold high expectations for the children and push them to achieve. My child came from a failing school and I got a real assessment about where she was in achievement. Although she was behind when she transferred, the principal and her teacher worked with her. She was assessed for and identified GATE. She is now reading above grade level! She loves the after school program and the science class. Miss Aeeshah greets us every morning at the front door. My child feels safe at school and I can see that she is really happy. You must hear the school pledge they say in the morning! It even gives me a boost! With the new principal on board, Santa Fe has really changed for the best. Thank you.
--Submitted by a parent

As the parent of a special needs child I found Santa Fe to have too many issues with behavior to address a childs true intelectual needs. They have some great staff and some thats laking but if your child must attend I say get a night job because you'll need to be there all day.
--Submitted by C. Mccray, a parent

The children of Santa Fe Elementary school are not known as students. It is instilled in them that they are Santa Fe SCHOLARS. I have been very pleased with the curriculum my child has received at Santa Fe. I was really impressed when I found out that they started learning Algebra in Kindergarden. The teachers are all truly interested in TEACHING the children. This year 2004-2005, Mr. Peter vonEhrenkrook's 2nd/3rd grade class, placed FIRST in the Oakland Public School Districtwide Oratorical Competition, with three (3) poems recited in both English and Spanish. There is an active Parent Club, an after school program, and an Child Developement Center.
--Submitted by Syl Young, a parent