St. Anne Elementary School

Overrated. Saint Anne is not 5 stars school. It is a very affordable private school but, you get for what you pay.Unfortunately, with the time I find out that there are very bad situations in this school swept under the rug.I am aware that there is not perfect school, but been a Catholic school...I was expecting more. One of those bad situations is like any middle school, Saint Anne has bullying issues. The principal took care of it partially. He came very hard only with one student to make happy some parents.But with the rest of the bully students, he is very soft and flexible..... no disciplinary action at all for braking the school conduct code.I really felt he was an exceptional principal and fair with ALL the students. Soooooo disappointed!!!
—Submitted by a parent

I wrote earlier when my son first entered Saint Anne School in sixth grade. He is now preparing to graduate from 8th grade. He actually enjoyed junior high school. I didn't know this was possible. There is no bullying, no "mean kids". The teachers and staff model and expect kind, respectful behavior. It definitely rubs off on the student body. My son has been able to thrive at this small wonderful school and we could not be happier. Academically, he has exceeded our expectations with a strong grasp of algebra, advanced literature, grammar, writing, American History, understanding of ancient civilizations and multiple religions, a continued love for science... it is phenomenal. When we first came to Saint Anne, our son had applied to another private school which gave the ISEE test and he scored in the 10-20 percentile in nearly all subjects. Now, only three years later, he scored in the 80-90 percentile on the ISEE test and got admitted into his first choice for high school. We did not put him into any outside tutoring or prep classes; his only academic preparation was from Saint Anne. I cannot have imagined a more perfect experience for our son.
—Submitted by a parent

We found St. Anne School online, after we d already submitted applications to a list of other schools. We thought we were done looking, but in the spirit of leaving no stone unturned, we scheduled and took a principal-guided tour of SAS. When we left, we knew that SAS was the school for us. One full year later, we can honestly say that we made the right choice. We love that art and music (vocal and instrumental) are valued parts of the curriculum; that technology enhances rather than dominates the classroom experience; that religious education respects all faiths; that the teachers are energetic, happy, and accessible; that the big kids are kind to the little kids; that parents are such willing and active volunteers; that the front office is super-efficient; and that our principal works so hard to make sure that our teachers and students have the resources they need in the classrooms and on the playground - to succeed and grow in their respective roles. It s this environment of family and community, where everyone pulls together and for each other, that makes SAS kids happy to go to school and eager to put forth their best effort.
—Submitted by a parent

We transferred from another private school in the area. The academics at the school are unmatched and there are more programs and more parent involvement at this school than at our prior school. The teachers are fantastic, they are young, enthusiastic and energetic and can't wait to get to school to get to work. They aren't the older, burned out, just there to get a paycheck, type of teachers. The principal is the biggest draw. He has an amazing energy and the children all love him. He greets them every morning by name and welcomes them into the school. Religion isn't forced upon anyone here. We are now in our second year here and are recommending this school highly to all of our friends who have children in both private and public schools. Oh, and before I forget, it costs a fraction of what most private schools charge.
—Submitted by a parent

We love Saint Anne! My daughter started kindergarten last year and was wonderful, she is already reading. The staff is great. They have after school program and a lot activities that the kids love.
—Submitted by a parent

We are on our second year at Saint Anne, I have seen the best come out of my kids they wake up every morning happy to go to school. if there is a concern there is always someone to help. All the staff is amazing! Every chance I get I recommend Saint Anne to friends and perfect strangers. Bringing my children to Saint Anne was the best choice I made. Come to Saint Anne and see for yourselves.
—Submitted by a parent

My child came from one of the "best" public elementary schools on Montana in Santa Monica. They told me she was failing everything but she scored superior/above average on all the IEP tests so they denied any extra help. After meeting with St. Anne's principal Mr. Browning, who speaks "to" not "at" you as an educator, not administrator, I made the decision to move to the school. the whole experience has been fabulous. After 1 1/2 years, my child now in fifth grade, has been on the honor roll, is happy, feels taken care of and is not bullied. St. Anne's is the best!
—Submitted by a parent

St. Anne School is truly a school of EXCELLENCE! Not only are the staff very professional from the front door (Mrs. Francis, Office Personnel) to the rear, but they are also very courteous and caring. Having been in several private school settings, St. Anne's stands high above the rest. Academic standards are high, teachers are personable and efficient and the principal, Mr. Browning, is a very caring individual. As a matter of fact, it's a pleasure to have a leader (prinicipal) who stands at the entrance of the school daily, greeting students by name. Mr. Browning is a blessings!
—Submitted by a parent

My two kids have attended St. Anne School for one semester and we have nothing but great things to say. The principal, Mr. Michael Browning is as passionate about his school as they come. The staff and the teachers are also amazing, friendly and professional. It's a very small and friendly environment where my children have come to thrive. It's also very affordable compared to other private schools. We are not a religious family and not even catholic but my children and I have come to fully enjoy the Wednesday mass that is part of their curriculum. Father Arthuro Corral is both funny and serious and I am very impressed in how he charms the kids with his wit to make them listen to biblical stories. He is truly brilliant! I couldn't recommend a school more.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been going to St. Anne for 2 years and she loves it! Its a great and affordable school. The curriculum is well thought out. They have an after school program with tutoring and volunteers from the Boys and Girl Club (membership is free for St. Anne students). The teachers are wonderful and very qualified and I can't forget to praise Mr. Browning for all of his great efforts and work. He not only operates and promotes the school he educates. Everyone is friendly and cordial.
—Submitted by a parent

I almost bypassed this school based on looks . What I found there was incredible. A principal that works hard daily to make the education here top notch. Small class sizes and qualified teachers. A friendly staff that knows everyone by name. And then there's the curriculum... Music (violin, guitar, etc.), SmartBoard technology, PS Science (hands-on classes) and Mountain Math. There is so much to this school that I could write about, but you need to see it for yourself. All this at a price that is about the same as I was paying for my two kids in public school with the after school program. (Did I mention the after school program, with tutoring and free membership in the Boys & Girls Club of SM?) Even if you're not Catholic, it is important that moral values are taught to your kids. This is the best kept secret in Santa Monica.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended St. Anne's since Kindergarten and she is now in the 4th grade. It was important that my daughter attend St. Anne's because I am an alumni and I always felt safe going to school when I was growing up. St. Anne's provided me with a good academic foundation. I went on to graduate from UCLA twice, ending with a Masters degree in Social Welfare. I expect more from my daughter and I believe that St. Anne's will provide her with the same solid foundation. We have had great experiences with the teachers at the school and I love the effort that the administration has in regards to constantly improving the school. I love all of the after school activities such as hip hop class and science class. Most importantly though, the school teaches morals, faith and love for God.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended St Anne School since Kindergarten, she is now in 6th grade and believe it or not, she still enjoys school, she has had some fabulous teachers, the principal is great and Ms Frances is amazing and all are very approachable. The children know all the teachers and most importantly all teachers know the children.
—Submitted by a parent

When I was looking for a school in the Santa Monica area I was looking at the public school system. SInce I am not a Santa Monica resident my chances of getting my daughter in the public school system was almost like zero to none. I am so thankful that I visited St Anne because my daughter's academic achievements have been richly increased and I just love this school. And I am not saying this just because my daughter goes here. The evidence is in my daughter's ability to hold an intelligent conversation with adults. My daughter is only in kindergarten. Now to end this review I must say that the principle is just an outstanding man. He puts his best foot forward in all that relates to the schools activities and functions. He really makes an super extra effort to always greet the parents and children. We love Mr. Browning!
—Submitted by a parent

This is my daughter's 2nd year at St. Anne School. She is now in the 1st grade. When she started she was very shy, and only knew three other students. She not only made friends in kindergarten, but also with all the students from the school. Everyone is very courteous, helpful, and caring. My daughter has always spoken highly of her 'buddy' she was paired-off with in kindergarten and misses him very much! The school provides great education, morals and values, and a family based environment. This allows for the parents and children to feel confident, safe and comfortable. In addition to a formal curriculum, the school provides extra curriculum courses offered on campus and off campus. My daughter is taking keyboarding and music for the 1st time and enjoys it very much! Being a part of a small school, encourages you to participate, volunteer, and feel proud of the teachers, principal, Frances, and all the students!
—Submitted by a parent

I always look at the reviews when available on a school. I noticed the comment from the 7th grade student about the cyber bullying and was skeptical but decided to enroll my child. I realize no school is perfect. I found the Principal, teachers and staff have a no tolerance policy for any type of bullying be it cyber, verbal, or physical. I am very happy with my choice of sending my son to St. Anne's. The teachers are wonderful and really care about the educational needs of each student. I wish they had a more rigorous athletic program which would open more scholarship availability from high schools in addition to academic scholarships. I would however recommend St. Anne to any parent.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughters and I love this school! It is affordable, clean and cozy. The teachers and all the staff are awesome. I highly recommend you take a tour of this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This is the 3rd year that my daughter will be part of the St. Anne family. The staff, from the principal, to his assistant, to all the teachers, are all very involved with the kids. As a parent, I feel very secured that when I drop off my daughter every morning, I know that she is in good hands, and that she is getting a very good education for the fraction of the cost of any other private school in the Santa Monica or West LA areas. Aside from the good education, they also put emphasis on responsibility, discipline and values.
—Submitted by a parent

This school was recently named 2009 Best of Santa Monica in the Religious Schools category by the U.S. Commerce Association. Association (USCA). The USCA 'Best of Local Business' Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

We are very Happy to have our kids in Saint Anne School, they have a wonderful teachers, amazing discipline. The Principal Leadership is very good, He is always around the school helping with everything, he knows the name of each kid!! and always have a very nice smile for all parents. The academic lever is incredible!!
—Submitted by a parent