Museum School

This school is all about parent involvement and it is led by a fantastic and caring principal. For the most part it has an amazing staff that is dedicated and caring. It truly is a community school! The only reason that I don't give the school 5 stars is that when it comes to teachers, there are weak links.They care, however due to teaching style or burnout, I don't feel they are the best fit for this school. I would like to see some changes made in a couple of the grades, but I don't think it will happen. Overall, If you are active and involved, overall, it still by far one of San Diego's options.
--Submitted by a parent

We are so lucky to be a part of this dynamic and engaging school. The community is vibrant and welcoming. The teachers and admin are involved, committed and caring. The curriculum is thoughtful and precise... The children learn by engaging in meaningful activities that make them learn by doing. The incorporated extra activities like tap dance, sewing, and music are phenomenal. We couldn't be happier!
--Submitted by a parent

2008 is my son's last year at The Museum School... He is at The Museum for almost 3 years and we just have great things to talk about it! It is, so far, the best school/life experience for my son and our family. I am pretty sure that he is very greatful for being there, he talks all the time how lucky he is for being part of the 'Museum family'. It is understood that once you are a Museum School Kid, you are always a Museum School Kid... Adriane
--Submitted by a parent

I love the Museum School for the following reasons: great student/teacher ratio, small school (one class per grade level), all teachers and admin know each student's name, the teachers want the very best for the students, the school believes in the importance of the arts (sewing classes, art, music, cooking, dance, etc are all offered during the school day), the best kindergarden teacher in all of US, and the school has a pretty diverse student population. I love the energy of the school!
--Submitted by a parent

We are very lucky to have found this amazing school. My daughter absolutely hated going to the traditional public school. Now she tells me not to pick her up early. WOW. Teachers, parents, and students are dedicated to a quality education. I could go on and on.
--Submitted by a parent

Amazing school with an energetic staff and an engaging type of teaching!
--Submitted by a parent

This is an exceptional school well-suited for children with highly inquisitive minds. The director, teachers and support staff nurture kindness, global and individual awareness and respect. Unconventional and innovative instruction with a tremendous amount of warmth!
--Submitted by a parent

The staff is the best in all of California and the programs are next generation.
--Submitted by a parent

My child was literally withering in the 'no child left behind' environment at her school. She hated school, and I didn't blame her. The administrator's fears over test scores meant little to no creativity allowed in the classroom. The Museum School's project based, creative curriculum not only gives her a reason to get up in the morning, but gives her access to skills and knowledge she would never get in a traditional classroom. The teachers and administrators motivated, and therefore, so are the kids. If you or your child wants/needs a more rigid, structured environment, this school won't be for you. But for those who thrive otherwise, it's a God-send. Be prepared as a parent to be involved with your time and resources. Like all charter schools (and all public schools with the present cut backs), it takes the whole village to make things run.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been at charter schools all her life, including 4 years here. The Museum School was, by far, the best of the lot--and she's now at one of the charter school darlings, High Tech High. But charter schools are not for every student (or parent). Enter with your eyes open, recognize the differences from traditional schools (relative strengths AND weaknesses), and be ready to help. Enrolling in a charter, then lamenting whatever it ISN'T, really misses the point! The Museum School provides an extraordinary diversity of creative opportunities, including world music and dance, an art program that leverages resources of their nominal sponsor (San Diego Children's Museum), and digital media classes, with experienced and inspired teachers. As a charter, there is not much infrastructure for things like parent volunteer associations. Yet, there is great opportunity for parent involvement. If you understand and appreciate that difference, you should do well.
--Submitted by a parent