Terrell Elementary School

During recent student recognition ceremony of proficient and advanced students, fourth grade teacher Marisa Rapinchuk and principal Lynn Hyssop "forgot" to give award certificate to a student. Teacher gave it next day only, after student showed the results of the tests to her. Extremely "professional" and "encouraging".
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter just finished Kindergarten at Terrell. Despite the negative impact of reduced school funding and much larger class sizes in the lower grades (30 kids per Kindergarten class!), this school has made the best of the situation. I felt that parents in my daughter's class really stepped up to the plate to volunteer in the classroom to help with the larger class size. Also, I feel the new principal keeps all parents informed and really believes in the school and improving all aspects of it. I believe this is an "up and coming" school, fighting to improve school climate and test scores despite difficult economic times. I gave Terrell an "average" score because I feel that it is currently an "average" school but has the potential to be much more.
--Submitted by a parent

The staff is truly caring and great. Unfortunately, the district has made so many cuts it will hurt our school. We have lost our life lab this year due to money. We don't offer any of the activities posted on this site like karate, newspaper, languages taught, etc. The 30 to 1 ratio in kindergarten is a nightmare. It really could be a great school with more participation and funding.
--Submitted by a parent

Our daughter just entered first grade and so far, so good on everything. Kindergarten went very well and she improved throughout the year in all her reviews so that was very nice to see. We just received a phone call last night from her teacher where she introduced herself and said a few words about our daughter (a glowing review I might add! :o) ) so the communication is very good as most of the reviews indicate. Overall, we are quite happy with Terrell entering our second year and hope for four more moving forward.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school, wonderful teachers and staff. Love the life lab!
--Submitted by a parent

My son is going on his thrid year at Terrell. Teacher involvement is outstanding. From emails to notes sent home to phone calls, my son's teacher always keeps me informed. The adminstrative staff (i.e. nurse, reception) is also great and very parent friendly. The school is in a nice and safe neighborhood.
--Submitted by Lian Gabriel, a parent

My son is currently in kindergarten there and loves it. The teacher Mrs. Lott is one of the best there. She has such a gentle and warm manner with the children and really makes learning fun for them. They go over the basics, days of the week, month, counting, knowing sight words. They are gradually introduced to beginning reading and math subjects. They encourage parents to volunteer in the classroom which is another great way to get insight on what goes on in the classroom.
--Submitted by a parent

We are a new family to Terrell this year and I am very impressed with parent/teacher communication. Both of our children's teachers are extremely supportive to our children and are committed whole heartedly to their success. I receive phone calls, notes, and newsletters frequently regarding both personal and classroom accademic progress. I am also impressed at how these teachers will go the extra mile to become involved and supportive of the children in their extra curricular school activities. There is a genuine interest in the growth and development of every child. The teachers are committed to exceeding the standards of educational requirements. The principal is wonderful and supportive to parents, teachers, and the children. The children respect their school and their guidance. They love to go to school...and I feel confident and trust in Terrell for their accademic and personal needs.
--Submitted by Michelle Lewis, a parent

Terrell is a good school especially for students that have a hard time in class. All the teachers that my son had up untill 5th grade were very involved in trying to help him excell in the areas that were causing him the most trouble. They took the extra time to talk with us about his problems and to come up with a game plan to help him succeed. Over all the teachers care a great deal about the children.
--Submitted by a parent

Terrell is a good school with excellent teachers. The school uniforms can be a little annoying but they will inevitably be spreading to all schools in the district so it's a necessary evil. This school starts at 7:55 am and has a very rigid 'tardy' policy so it may not be the best choice for late risers or those people who are always 5 minutes late for everything. Terrell has a very strong and involved PTA and the school itself is in a really nice neighborhood. I'm happy to have my child attending this school. Let's face it SJUSD is not the worlds best school district and this school is tons better than most others in San Jose.
--Submitted by a parent