Soleado Elementary School

We moved to Palos Verdes specifically for the schools and could not be happier with Soleado. We've been a Soleado family for five years and have two children here. The teachers and staff are caring and attentive. There are numerous levels of learning for all types of students. Whether a student needs further challenges, a little push or a lot more help to get up to grade level, this is a place that focuses on every child, not just the top or bottom learners. In addition, I have found the parent community very supportive and friendly, which is much appreciated for a two-worker family with no family/nanny support. Finally, as someone of multi-ethnic background who grew up in mid-LA, I get that Soleado is not some people's ideal of a "diverse" school. But be realistic; you're looking at RPV, not LA. According to 2010 census data, RPV is 62% Caucasian, 29% Asian, 8.5% Hispanic and 2.4% African-American. By comparison, Soleado is very diverse. Not to mention, "diverse" comes in many forms. Not all Asians, for example, are the same. To me, what matters more than the statistics is how Soleado teaches tolerance, kindness and acceptance.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter attended Rancho Vista last year, and although it is also a good school, Soleado is superior! For starters, the principal is fantastic! I like how he takes the time to get to know each child. The teachers are also wonderful. The classroom architecture creates a feeling of unity and the teachers work together as a team. I only wish that the Yard Duty staff was more helpful when it comes to conflict resolution during recess. This is one area in which Rancho Vista excelled.
--Submitted by a parent

I went to this school from 3rd grade through 5th. I am now 21 and in my 4th year of college. I loved this school. The teachers and staff were always kind and welcoming-of course there was drama with the other girls, but that's a given. Whenever I had any drama with the other kids, I always asked a teacher or the principal for help and they ALWAYS made things better. I cannot emphasize how much I grew from attending Soleado, how much I learned, and more! Truth be told, I only remember the 50 states because of a song we were taught in "Big Room"! If I could, I would give Soleado 100 stars :)

I have a 3rd grader and kindergartener at Soleado - my 3rd grader has attended the school since D-K. My wife and I moved to the Palos Verdes area because of the schools and we couldn't be happier with Soleado.The principal, Mr. Allen, is highly involved and truly cares for the kids. I think he knows every child's name - how many schools can say that??? The diverse backgrounds of the students at the school has been a fantastic influence on our children. Additionally, the teachers are wonderful - positive, caring, motivating! it is evident from how much my kids love school and enjoy learning that they are doing lots of things right at Soleado and that we made the right choice in sending our kids there.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a fifth grade teacher at Soleado Elementary School. I have taught there for four years and I love it. I was sad to see the review from a parent saying the school is terrible. To anyone who reads that, take your time to come in to our school and get to know the staff. We do believe in diversity and in making school a positive and engaging experience for all of our kids. I love my students and I know they love me!
--Submitted by a teacher

I am shocked at the comment that cultural diversity is a lie at Soleado. While the plurality is comprised of Asians (45%), 35% are caucasians, Latinos are 5%, African Americans are 4%, Filipinos are 2% and multiple races about 9%. At least a dozen languages are spoken by the families and students in the school and there is a good mix of people from varying ethnicities. I have a 4th grader at Soleado and my son who is now in 8th grade completed his elementary education there. Both my children have received excellent education from teachers who are extremely competent and deeply care about their students, and the principal and his staff are absolutely wonderful!
--Submitted by a parent

too many negatives to list. 2nd and third grade teachers are the only positives here. Prides itself on cultural diversity, which is a lie. Don't let the smiles and the sales pitch fool you.
--Submitted by a parent

my grandaughter is a student there and she loves her school...she has had good and really great teachers....the principal is the most involved and dedicated I have ever seen....

I love my daughter's school Soleado Elementary for so many reasons. I guess the first and foremost is it's principal Mr. Kevin Allen. He greets the children and parents always with friendliness, energy, and compassion. His positive energy is so enjoyable. The teachers are also exceptional! Every teacher we have had so far has been fantastic. Soleado is a lovely little school tucked into a lovely little neighborhood. The students/families comprise of a nice mixture of ethnicities and economic backgrounds, which makes us all very diverse. Everyone really works together nicely to get everything needed for our children. Soleado is a great place!
--Submitted by a parent

My first second grade children came to Soleado at the end of the last quarter. After attending a private school in Diamond Bar, CA. they have grown so much in that short period of time. They feel accepted by their peers and loved by their teachers and the Principle. I'm so glad I made the move that at first appeared to be drastic. Thank You Soleado for being a great transition for my little ones.
--Submitted by a parent