James Foster Elementary School

Why doesn't James Foster teach grades k-7 like all the other elementary schools in Santa Clarita?
--Submitted by a parent

My oldest daughter spent her entire elementary 'career' at Foster and I am currently trying to get my son in the prescool program at Foster childcare. I have friends who spent a fortune (which I don't have) on private school only to be surprised that my daughter was routinely at or above the level of their kids. The PTA is very active and seems to genuinely seek out opportunities to improve the school. I was a working Mom when my daughter went there and I did not have the time to participate; it does seem that the 'PTA Kids' get more attention at school functions, but I never felt that my daughter was left out when she deserved recognition. She is a happy, well adjusted, and successful high schooler now and much of that is due to the start she got at Foster.
--Submitted by a parent

I love this school. The teachers are great and have been very helpful with any issues we've had.
--Submitted by a parent

I work at James Foster in the child care program. I get to work with alot of the teachers at the school and I think they are all amazing! the school has so many activities for the children and I have yet to meet any rude staff member although I can't say the same about parents. :( The class sizes are small and the school has a great record! Its right next to the park and over looks Saugus. Overall I would have to say its a great school! I would send my kids there. If I had any... :)

I have to disagree with the parent below and hope that I can shed some light on what the many parent volunteers and the PTA offer to the student body annually. Meet the Masters Art Program, After School Enrichment, Disaster Preparedness, Monthly Assemblies on science, the Wright brothers or just fun stuff, the annual carnival, Book Fair ( twice a year ), Kindergarten welcome magnets, the READ program, Socials/Dances and not to mention all the field trips for each grade, plus the 6th grade promotion ceremony and reception. I went to a private school all through my elementary and junior high school years. This school is equal to the private school in education and far above in parent involvement. I am grateful every day that we do not have to attend a school in the LAUSD ( though I know some schools are good ). We love Foster!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been a student for two grades now at Foster. I have very mixed feelings about the quality of the school. The office staff gossips about not only the parents but the students too - they think we aren't listening, but we are. The PTA raises more money for parents and cancer research than they raise specifically for students programs. The teachers are wonderful, but favorite students are often those of the PTA moms, selected for class performancs and chosen to stand out in awards ceremonies, while equally capable and shining faces are left ignored because Mom won't be attending anyway. It's a priviledged school in a priviledged neighborhood, but not all families have the means to donate money to class parties and teacher's gifts. Instead any money raised should be used on things like the library some newer books. I would not reccomend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

I too am very involved. We have an amazing set of teachers, our administrators are excellent and so are the office and grounds staff. I love this school.
--Submitted by a parent

My kindergartner enjoyed her school year at Fosters. The school involvement in academic achievement and making students excited about their studies, gave confidence to my child. She now reads and writes. They have a brand new computer lab with Windows XP for students. They provide child care before and after school. Parent involvement is highly valued and there are opportunities for in-class volunteers as well as for extracurricular events. The principal, Ms. Nolte, is evidently committed to the school's academic improvement. In 2006 they achieved a score of 876 API. I highly recommend this school if you live in the Saugus or Valencia area.
--Submitted by a parent

Last year was our first year with my daughter entering kindergarden. With a half day program, they seemed to learn alot. The office staff and teacher were very friendly and open to communication. The school is a 2004 California Blue ribbon school. There is no art,music or PE program.
--Submitted by a parent

I am not a parent of this school. I live in Torrance, CA and was in Santa Clarita and lost my wallet. The principal of your fine school contacted me and said he found it while jogging early last Monday morning. I didn't even realize I lost it. He returned it with ALL my credit cards and $55 intact. I want to say thank you and tell everyone how truly honest your principal John Baker is. He wouldn't take any reward, and he said he was happy to return it to me. Anita DiNicola
--Submitted by Anita DiNicola, a parent