Golden Valley Charter School of Sacramento

My child went to this school from K through 8 and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat! I wish every child could have this experience. Those who have trouble with the admin staff probably do not know the constraints of state rules and regulations, nor do they understand the realities of budgets, and are likely demanding and unreasonable in other areas of their lives. If you truly care about your child(ren) please go to a parent meeting, meet the staff, and do a Walk through the Grades. Your child will be known for who the are, respected, guided, and loved.
--Submitted by a parent

School is a good choice for the early grades (maybe K-3), as it allows the kids to have significant play time without excessive (any?) homework. After that the benefits diminish rapidly in my view and do not compare with what is offered in other traditional schools, as reflected in test scores, etc. I do believe the seriously negative comment a couple earlier than mine. The school does have tremendous parental involvement, but not all of it is positive.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has attend Golden Valley for six years now. We have had a great experience here. I would highly recommend Golden Valley to any family that is seeking a holistic, parent involved, non-mainstream educational experience for their child.
--Submitted by a parent

Our families 3 year experience has been awful.The school principal has been cold unapproachable and somewhat unattached from reality and the day to day running of the school.She has no idea what any of the names of the children are or who the families they belong to.The administration office constantly loses paperwork and does not seem to have any concept as to what public school professionalism is.The principal is rarely on campus and when she is her focus is driving parent volunteers and families away. The culture of the school is unfriendly and caustic.Volunteering at Golden Valley is like swimming in shark infested waters. The self imposed leaders of the volunteers are cruel hostile cyber&real time bullies who will destroy your childs educational experience as well as your volunteering opportunities thru intimidation and rejection. The parental behavior is modeled to their children who will bully the children of bullied parents. Teachers openly bullying children in class encouraging classmates to also reject vulnerable children.Parental pressure to write positive comments on this site overwhelming and stressful.If anyone ever voices concerns or questions they are forced out.
--Submitted by a parent

My experience of GVCS has been overall pretty great. Our kids have really come to love school; it has allowed for growth on many levels. They are excited to go to school each day and thrive on what is next. Although my experience has been pleasant on most accounts with the teachers and parents etc, I have had a few complications with admin-they mean well and try to follow rules to the max which can make things difficult at any school when trying to manage multi-household children. BUT again overall the community, the love, the friendships, and the learning at this school are building great students and one day exceptional people in our world. This is where it all starts; GVCS is supporting a well rounded student.
--Submitted by a parent

We love Golden Valley and are so grateful that the school expanded its enrollment for 1st grade & invited us to join the community. We came from a Private Waldorf school & enjoy GV's waldorf-inspired curriculum without the hefty price tag. The community of parents and the teachers' dedication to our children are amazing. And, the administration of the school has effectively managed its finances during these extremely challenging times. We especially love that our son has learned how to knit & purl, paint with watercolors, play the pentatonic flute and so much more learning based on "head, heart & hands". How fortunate we are to have found Golden Valley.
--Submitted by a parent

We are so happy that our child is at Golden Valley Charter School. The teachers, staff, and administration are caring professionals who maintain a warm, nurturing, balanced atmosphere. Our child is being prepared well for life, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally.
--Submitted by a parent

Our grandchildren attend this school and we are very impressed with the quality of education they receive. Each child is respected and treated as a special human being. They enjoy weekly nature walks and learn math and reading skills while preparing recipes. Who says learning can't be fun. The teachers are dedicated and talented.

If you are looking for a school that brilliantly bridges the public school and Waldorf methods while still being affordable and friendly, my children's school is here. Our community allows of diversity and is united in a common goal for excellence. Every teacher is chosen because of his/her commitment to the children's well-being (academically, socially, emotionally, and physically) and our school has managed to grow and weather the economic cuts based on a competent staff and dedicated parent volunteers. Read about Waldorf methods, think about your involvement in your child's education, check out a parent information meeting and see that vision and the desire for the best overall experience are waiting for your family at Golden Valley Charter School. My children are creating their own textbooks, have multidisciplinary subjects, and both have amazing teachers who truly love them.
--Submitted by a parent

Golden Valley is a wonderful school and has changed our family for the better. We came from a public school two years ago and were instantly and warmly welcomed into the community. Volunteerism is very high at the school, helping teachers and demonstrating to the children a commitment to their education. The Waldorf-inspired curriculum teaches not only academics but integrates social skills, problem solving, handwork, art, music, cooking, gardening, nature walks and more. We love this school and are impressed at the staff's efforts to continually move the school and its community forward via the 2020 vision. I highly recommend Golden Valley!
--Submitted by a parent