Coyote Ridge Elementary School

I was transferred here in fifth grade and let me tell you, it was the worst school year of my life. I was so glad to finally get out. Almost all the kids were rude and self-centered, its hard to find real friends. It's hard to fit in when everyone is going around thinking they are the best. As for the school itself, it seemed that they only cared about their image and not the students. Most teachers, supervisors, and the principal were kind of faking their way through the year and not caring to really connect with the students. Also, their rules are really strict, esp. At recess. I remember that I bought this X-large pencil at the bookfair during lunch, and as I was racing to catch up with the lunch line, a supervisor yelled NO RUNNING WITH A PENCIL. Even though there was no one nearby as I ran, and it was doubtful I would hurt myself. This school wants good, obedient students that will become another brick in the wall of society. Rarely allows creativity, or freedom. The only part I really enjoyed was the art projects, which was done by volunteered parents and not the school itself. Then again, perhaps it was just my bad timing of transferring to the school...

Overall, I am disappointed with Coyote Ridge. Most of the teachers here are good. BUT, there is one second grade teacher who is very cold, tends to humiliate students, and is unapproachable. The community of parents is GREAT. However, the school chooses AWFUL standardized curriculum, refuses to deviate from it, does not re-teach subjects that entire classes are not getting, and concentrates on STAR testing far too much. Teaching to the test does NOT HELP STUDENTS. The kindergarten teachers are all fantastic, but there needs to be something done about the curriculum, reading programs, and really most academics-related things about this school. I must point out though, the teacher's hands are bound, perhaps the curriculum change needs to happen at the district level. The office staff at Coyote Ridge are snooty, rude and make you feel like you are bothering them with anything.
—Submitted by a parent

It has been an amazing school for my daughter so far. The teachers are great and keep you informed avery step of the way..
—Submitted by a parent

This school has been so great. Have had child from K- 2 so far teachers have been incredible. supportive, attentive and my child has loved every one of them.
—Submitted by a parent

Coyote Ridge is a large school and when you have so many students it is harder to provide field trips, incentives etc. due to the large cost involved. Most of the teachers are great. The PTA does alot for the school but it always seems like the same twelve people are doing all the work. Many parents say they will help out and want more for their kids but when asked to participate they always have an excuse. Schools with half as many students are able to raise three to four times as much money as our school through box tops but Coyote Ridges parents seem to busy to even cut out a box top. If all 850 students were to bring in 10 box tops a month (which is not hard) the school would raise almost $7,000. Step up parents. Stop complaining and start helping out.
—Submitted by a parent

I like the way, this school has helped my child. I am exceited for this new school year. Thank you to the school administration on helping my daughter in everything that she needed. To the teachers I can`t thank you enough.
—Submitted by a parent

My wife and I are very pleased with the school administration and teachers. Our daughter is extremely happy at Coyote Ridge. She has learned a lot from her teachers for the past four years. Yes, she does have fun at school. There are also great after school activities! Thank you, teachers for working so hard and for caring.
—Submitted by a parent

The school only cares about test scores and how they look on paper. No communication and the kids just cant have fun. Isn't it funny that during test weeks they give your kids snacks.Which they say helps a child learn more. My daughter is very far behind and i get no help from the school.
—Submitted by a parent

I am always happy with the office staff. However, some of the staff (teachers) are extremely unapproachable. While academics are important I think too much emphasis on curriculum has really robbed the students of a fun elementary experience.
—Submitted by a parent

I think this is a great school. My daughter has improved a lot throught the years. Thanks
—Submitted by a parent

I too feel the staff is cold and aloof. You are made to feel as though you are intruding. I get minimal information from teachers and am always the one initiating feedback. I'd like to see less meaningless flyers come home and receive more personalized feedback on my child's progress without always having to go ask for it.
—Submitted by a parent

The administration is very cold and discipline is much too strict. There is no question that at Coyote Ridge, academics are priority #1, however there's more to the well-rounded growth of the students than just academics. What about play and fun? It's part of being a kid. They're neglecting a key ingredient to true well-rounded growth, the freedom to run and play.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has been a big disappointment. It is probably fine for most kids, but my fifth grader has not enjoyed his 5 years at Coyote Ridge, a small fish in a very large pond. Being a new school, they have obviously had issue with rules and figuring out what works and what does not. It has therefore given none of the advantages of a huge new school, with all of the disadvantages. I can not recommend it only in contrast to the other public schools that I am familiar with. I really expected much more from this school located in such a great district.
—Submitted by a parent

Two of my sons attend Coyote and they love it! The teachers and staff are great and very supportive of the kids. Many programs for the kids who need that extra help. Very happy at this school!
—Submitted by Mina Lee, a parent

school does to much testing. leaving kids behind an is overcrowded looks like we need to move do not enrol or buy home in this district
—Submitted by a parent

My six year old daughter loves her school. The teachers are great and the standards are high. There are a lot of activities for the kids.
—Submitted by Leslie Chang, a parent

We love this school. Our girls have been to other schools and have done well but this school pushes their learning to a more advanced level. Coyote Ridge really tries to involve parents in the classroom and does a good job communicating to parents about homework and happenings around school. We are very impressed!
—Submitted by a parent

I am very impressed with Coyote Ridge. I have a friend who has a son two years older than mine who goes to the San Juan School District in Citrus Heights. His son is bringing home homework similar to my son. And he is very excited to do it! I couldn't be more happy with his school!
—Submitted by Jillian, a parent

Excellent school. The teachers and Principal are very good. Our son attended Kindergarten and is now almost done with first grade. He likes the school, his teachers, and his classmates. Students are challenged with work at their respective levels. For example, in his first grade class, there is a grade level reading group and an advanced level reading group.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two boys at Coyote Ridge this year. The School needs more music and art programs. PTA should continue to raise funds for new school programs. Thanks for adding the Friday after school sports club, Jr. golf and harmonica music programs - keep it up Coyote Ridge!
—Submitted by a parent