Elodrado-Emerson. What a fantastic school. Where do I begin? I'm struggling with how to communicate the qualities of Eldorado-Emerson without writing a magazine-length article. I think I'll start with suggesting a couple of videos. Since most sites don't allow links to external content to be included in posts, I'm going to suggest typing the following search terms into Google: ken robinson ted creativity and david kelly ted creative confidence . The first one or two results returned will be videos from TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) conferences. Envision a school that embodies the elusive ideals they're discussing. This is it. My two children are mid-way through elementary school, and have been attending Eldorado-Emerson since preschool. My kids know no other school, and school is something that they love. My daughter has actually feigned wellness when she was sick so she wouldn't have to be sent home. The kids are excited about learning, regardless of the subject, and the school has no shortage of great teachers. In addition to the standard curriculum, they've learned violin, Spanish, Latin, and computer programming. We love this school.
—Submitted by a parent
This school is a gem. Our son has thrived and learned so much in the short time he has attended. Mostly, we are happy that he is finally loving school and is full of confidence. There are so many things to love about this school: the kind, engaged and loving teachers (Mrs Byron!), the small class sizes, the friendly and welcoming admin and support staff, the fun and respectful kids and the curriculum. We are looking forward to the coming years at Eldorado but will say that we will reassess as we go. It is a small school and while they provide a large amount of opportunities they can't cover everything. It will depend on where our son's interests and talents lay as to whether we'd would continue to the upper grades. Room for improvement:The building could do with some work as could the play equipment. It's in okay shape just looks tired. And while friendly, communication with the school is sometimes odd. Sometimes feels like I'm lacking information. And in lieu of hearing about any future plans for the school, it makes me think there aren't any. The world is rapidly changing and would like to know how the school will meet the changes. Overall great diverse school. Highly Recommend
—Submitted by a parent
We love this school! We swiched to this school mid year (from another private school in south county). The environment has been perfect for our son. Our son has made great leaps in knowledge and confidence since attending this school - this is truly a blessing. He has grown socially and academically. The educational program is structured yet allows for individual exploration. Our son's kindergarten teacher was watchful, caring, patient and intuitive. The school has an Art program with an amazing Art Studio. It was comforting when one of the art teachers told us that in terms of art "they" (the teachers)" develop patience". The school also has a PE program with an excellent PE teacher. Since switching to this school our son has improved dramatically. The environment at Eldorado has allowed our son to catch-up on what he was lacking while attending his previous school. We feel lucky to have found Eldorado!
—Submitted by a parent
The best!! When our family first moved to California, we wanted a nonsectarian private school that had both strong academics and the arts. We feel so lucky to have found Eldorado Emerson! All of the teachers are very knowledgeable and so good at inspiring students. Our older son became extremely interested in science after Mr. Bonfiglio's 4th grade science class, and after having Mrs. Rodriquez (a WONDERFUL teacher) in 1st grade, our daughter has been inspired to write poetry ever since. Just spend five minutes talking with any of the insightful, well-spoken, kind-hearted students at this school, and you'll realize what a special school Eldorado Emerson really is.
—Submitted by a parent
My husband and I are so grateful to Eldorado Emerson. Our family has so many fond memories of this school and cannot say enough good things about it -- the teachers, the staff, the families have been wonderful. Our son started here as a 7th grader six years ago, and during that time he was involved in so many wonderful events, clubs, activities, and was totally prepared by all of his teachers for successful acceptance into college. In just a couple of weeks he will begin his college career at Cornell University and we are convinced that this could have only happened because of his preparation and academic success at Eldorado Emerson Private School.
—Submitted by a parent
Our daughter loves going to Eldorado Emerson, she's learning a lot, and we couldn't be happier. What first appealed to us about the school were the small class sizes, around 10 kids per teacher. There is SO much more to this school than that.
—Submitted by a parent
My son has had a fantastic experience at this school. We've tried other private schools and this one really is the best. At Eldorado he is learning because he loves it, not because he's forced to. I love that every grade has an arts program, P.E., music, foreign language, and additional engaging activities that inspire the kids.
—Submitted by a parent
I am so impressed with Eldorado Emerson. Our child is so happy here, and everyone is like family.
—Submitted by a parent
My wife and I consider Eldorado Emerson to be of the highest caliber. Today our daughter came home so excited (AGAIN) about what she did in school. This time it was performing in the 2nd and 3rd grade opera(?!), that they wrote, scored, and performed. So cool.
—Submitted by a parent
this was a good school at first. the teachers were nice and the staff was friendly. i am a student of this school. i would not recomend atttending here. the administration is lazy and only do things that are convienient for them, such as locking the front door 2.5 hours earlier than they are supposed to, and not allowing visitors on campus. honestly, i would post more negative things about this school here, but i wont knowing that this website might not post my review.
This school used to be a great school when it was for gifted students. You could bring your 4 year old here and the child would have fun learning to read. They have a beautiful garden in the inner courtyard, and the art teacher Dr. LaGreen is talented. Unfortunately, the school opened enrollment to others and no longer has the same screening process, so quality of peers widely varies. Foreign students may be held back one grade to learn the English language. We left for personal reasons. If your child has ADHD, this school could be right for your child because the class size is under 10 students per teacher and only one class per grade. Tuition costs are about $1,100 per month - very reasonable. Perhaps one day they will restructure and return to being a great school for gifted children.
—Submitted by a parent
My daughter started this school in preschool. When it was timefor Kindergarden I put her in the local public school that was had a gate program. When the state scores came out and she was 2 years ahead, I put her back in Eldorado and have not regretted it. Her last test scores showed she was 4 years ahead, but at Eldorado she is in a classroom with her peer, who all have exceptional scores and great attotudes. They all enjoy going to school there.
—Submitted by a parent
I learned so much attending this school. The only downside is the price. It was easy for me to make friends and the teachers really tried their hardest to get you to learn everything possible. You never felt uncomfortable around them like you do at most schools. You parents wouldn't understand that but it's important. For all the kids looking at this, no stupid dress code, and none of the unneccsary rules, but it's not like we can do anything we want. They have great art, music, and P.E. classes, a pool, a garden with all the trimmings, and I've heard they've added alot more since I went there in '05.
—Submitted by a former student
This school is an 'upscale crunchy granola school,' meaning it's expensive (as expensive as Fairmont Schools) yet has a 'warm, fuzzy' atmosphere. The school grounds are in dire need of maintenance, and the neighborhood around the school has gotten much worse in the last 30 years. Bottom line: music and art are taught by wonderful, experienced instructors. There are much better schools in the county for the same or lower cost.
—Submitted by a parent
We have been very happy here. My daughter is gifted and has ADHD, and the small classes and nurturing atmosphere have been wonderful for her. She says 'you have no idea how fun it is there!' and enjoys going to school every day. The teacher quality has been very, very high. The teachers are creative and engaged with the children. The school has an art studio, music, and foreign language as well.
—Submitted by a parent
We have been very happy! Excellent reading program for preschoolers. Teachers are very caring and enjoy their jobs. Good focus on the arts. Children are very happy and challenged.
—Submitted by a parent
Impressive arts program at the school. Music, Spanish and Mandarin also offered. The center of the school has a beautiful Monet Garden for nature study, composition ideas, etc. By age 12, students are able to use the pottery wheel in the Art Studio. Great for happy, creative kids.
—Submitted by a parent
I like their academic programs, on art, music, and reading.
—Submitted by a parent
Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools
nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities.
Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.