Cambridge Elementary School

I find it so interesting that one school could have such high and then such low ratings. My experience at the school has been wonderful. Of course the school isn't perfect, but every concern I have brought up with teachers and/or administrators have been taken seriously and addressed in a timely manner. I have never felt like the school caters to non-english speakers. All important papers are sent home in both spanish and english but doing what it takes to help all parents get involved in their child's education does not bother me one bit. And for what it's worth, I've NEVER seen anything come home just in spanish. Where this school is lacking is in parent involvement. But you can't blame the school for that. I think the families who are the happiest at Cambridge are those who roll up their sleeves and decide to get involved, making the school a better place for all the kids and helping solve problems with the public education system instead of waiting for someone else to do it.
--Submitted by a parent

Not pleased at all. It seems that they cater more to children who can't speak English and do not offer any REAL help to the ones who ask for it. My children attended this school and there is a handful of good teachers but majority need to retire or find a more suitable career. There is no room for creativity or exploration here. If your child has passion or a creative mind beware.....Dream killers. It is unfortunate that the teachers who do make a difference are not recognized. I feel there is a lot of lazy staff here that are just there for a paycheck. This is not a school I would recommend. It is truly not a place for a young mind.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent teachers, we are very happy to have our son attend Cambridge. Wonderful community. Needs more parents to step up and help support this school and voice their suggestions to the administrators.

We moved to Old Towne Orange two years ago, and while we love the area, the awful school is the reason we are moving back to North Tustin. Our children's teachers have been fine, but clearly overworked. All communications are in both Spanish and English. When you go to Back to School Night, you sit and listen to one line of English, then the translation in Spanish. I have no problem with presentations in Spanish - but don't make me sit through them. The same goes for newsletters, etc. I can't tell you how many times only the Spanish version of some important paper was sent home. Parent participation is extremely low. The first Back to School Night we attended, we were the ONLY ones in my son's class, and only one of 8 parents for our daughter. Education is not a priority - the students face too many outside challenges.
--Submitted by a parent

Even though no one in our immediate neighborhood attends this school, we decided we wanted to give our local school a chance. We have been nothing but pleased at the education our daughter has received there. The teachers are amazing, the staff is approachable and it is full of parents who really care about their children and still believe in the public school system. It is a great school to be a part of. Be wary of all the rhetoric about public schools. Visit Cambridge and then decide for yourself.
--Submitted by a parent

My son graduated from 6th grade last year. He was at Cambridge since kindergarten. He is very well rounded and has excelled in everything. One of his teacher's even went out of her way to go to his football games on Saturday's. He visit's her frequently and she has helped him become a great kid!!
--Submitted by a parent

Having taught at this school, I would recommend it to all parents. Within each grade level I have worked with dedicated, creative and kind educators. The students thrive in the inviting and academically rigorous environment. The principal has high expectations and goals for all. This creates a school culture motivated to achieve great things while being a positive influence in the lives of children. It's a great school!
--Submitted by a teacher

Very nice school. Great programs. My son learned a lot at this school. His assignments were challenging and he stuck to it.
--Submitted by a parent

Cambridge is truly a 'hometown' school. My children, husband and I feel so comfortable and at ease with the staff, children and other parents. They all seem to really care for and are attentive to all the needs of every child.I know I can send my children to school in a safe, well-rounded, culturally diverse atmosphere and all just around the corner in Old Town Orange.
--Submitted by A Proud Cambridge Parent, a parent

This has been the best SDC 1-3 class that I have seen in Orange Unified!The staff is extremely qualified in helping the children to learn and excel in all areas possible.
--Submitted by a parent