Santa Cruz Children's School

After visiting most of the private and public elementary schools in the area over a two year period we chose SCCS for our son. Admittedly, when I first walked into the kindergarten classroom I immediately thought it was too small. But after reading research on how children learn and how the environment impacts their learning I recognize that a small well organized space was far preferable to the norm - a larger room crammed with things. However, what makes the difference are the teachers. They are all committed to insuring that each child achieves their maximum potential. And with smaller class sizes they are able to be more innovative. The kindergarten teacher is very creative. For example, she created a reading book from photos of individual students in the class. She also makes wonderful activity packs the incorporate reading and math activities that the children take home for the week. The kindergarteners also study science, physical education, dance, art, cooking and sewing, library, Spanish, and singing with different expert teachers. The entire school participates in a science fair and performance each year. It is the perfect school for the inquisitive child.
--Submitted by a parent

I am very happy with my daughters progress at SCCS. Her favorite subject is math and she is really in love with learning. I feel that the student teacher ratio, variety of subjects and quality of instructors all lend themselves to an optimal learning environment. She can hardly wait to go in the morning. She really benefits also from learning from the older students who really feel like her family to her. The primary teachers Dan and Adele are such a positive and playful influence. The school atmosphere exudes happiness and enthusiasm.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is thriving in this happy and supportive environment. Parent participation is encouraged and the teachers always have time to speak with you. The small class size and multi-age structure means that the teachers really do have time to target individual learning. We have found the curriculum structured enough to measure academic improvement, yet interesting and spontaneous enough to truly inspire the children's love of learning. The enrichment classes in addition to the standard curriculum are as they say enriching, and my sons knowledge and wonder about the world has grown and grown. The field trips are well and safely organized and the children visit the library weekly. Overall it is a well managed and caring place to send your child.
--Submitted by a parent

Extremely unstructured curriculum - science either non-existant or not age-appropriate. Very weak in grades 2-6. Overly pacifist atmosphere. Their verbage to parents during the open house does not match what actually happens in school. Communication between school directors and parents absolutely horrible. Having said that, the last three kindergarten teachers during the last 4 years have been awesome! Unfortunately, they do not stick around.
--Submitted by a parent

The low teacher student ratio allows students to pursue the different subjects at their own rate. If you have a math wiz and struggling reader, no problem at SCCS. The curriculm is solid with core subjects. Heavy in reading and science. There are parent teachers, many award winning, who teach their specialties (enrichment classes). Last year many co-op parents held teaching credentials. The small play ground is filled with movable structures so the kids spend time creating play areas. The play ground superviser is incredible and swiftly assists children in resolving their conflicts. Social skills are given a lot of attention and many problems are avoided. My child came from a small, top rated public school. He had frequent stomach aches and teachers reported that he was disengaged. At SCCS, he is thriving and very happy. His weak areas have become strong, his strong areas stronger. We love SCCS!
--Submitted by a parent

SCCS is a great school for children who are interested in learning. Because it is a small classroom environment, children at this school are able to self-pace their learning of reading, writing and math. In addition, the children at this school are all taught how to be kind to others. Adult supervision (teachers and parents) is high so children always feel safe.
--Submitted by a parent