St. Mark School

St. Mark School is by far the BEST choice on the west Side. The kids are smart, they have a love for learning, a respect for their teachers and parents and academically they soar!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter started in kindergarten and is now flourishing in 1st grade. Academics are solid, classes are small, and the teachers are significantly invested in individual student development and education. This is a school of relationships rather than rosters and numbers. Come on in, walk the halls during the day, and you will be amazed by the student teacher interaction that is both loving, professional, and intellectually challenging. The school is building upon its relationship with Loyola Marymount University, a leader in private school education research, private school teacher training, and social justice. You will be asked to volunteer; may seem a chore, but you will become part of a dynamic, diverse community and you will see the direct benefit of all your efforts. None of the snob factor, competitive parenting, or materialism you may see at other local privates. I have looked deep into this place, and it isn't perfect by any means, but the teachers and staff make this place special. If a parent has a concern, they are heard, and appropriate changes happen fast. Looking over my review, I almost want to erase it so the school stays a hidden gem with small classes.
--Submitted by a parent

St Marks has a committed teaching staff with low student-to-teacher ratios and a quality family experience. Student successes are celebrated and their hurdles supported in a way that builds confidence and encourages involvement. Students from every grade level support the younger students and remain involved in their "school family's" success throughout the year. In this way, the kids learn not only that they can be successful as students, but they can become even more successful by helping others achieve success - a lesson that lasts a lifetime. From the Lion Olympics to the Talent Show to the Carnival, SMS includes all the kids and encourages a safe, supportive environment. SMS teachers are among the most active in stressing a complete education of mind, body and spirit. Educational excellence is expected; SMS graduates go onto HS & College at rates exceeding most schools in LA. But beyond educational excellence, the teachers and administration at SMS engage the kids at an early age in the human experience. Tolerance and community is taught, along with humility and compassion . Tuition is affordable, education is excellent and school spirit is palpable. We love SMS.
--Submitted by a parent

This is THE BEST value for the money on the Westside. Our children are in Kindergarten and second grade and we are so pleased with the teachers, the curriculum, the environment and administration. It is a warm, friendly, welcoming environment with a small local school feel. Our children love their teachers and have learned so much since they have attended the school. I was a little nervous about sending my kids there because I am not Catholic, but they are very accepting of all denominations and I appreciate the overall values that my kids are learning. I would not recommend the school if we were not 100% happy with it - we cannot be more pleased.
--Submitted by a parent

This school in my experiance is absolutely the best in the Westside for my child and my peace of mind. It truely is a family like environment and a very very safe school. At no time does anyone come in or out of the school without being notice. It truely shows how important and special the children are at this school. The academics are at high standards. Love this school in it's all.
--Submitted by a parent

We are extremely impressed at how are son was welcomed in as a transfer student. We are equally disappointed he will never get to be in Ms. Opet's kindergarten class, but thankful that our next child will be! The school has great potential and it has brought great qualities out in our child. The teachers are wonderful and trained, and there is art, computers, everything for a well-rounded educational experience. While we don't want this secret to get out about this great school because we like the small class sizes, we think the school deserves to be applauded on this site.
--Submitted by a parent

We spent 3 years researching schools, as our local public school was going downhill. We knew that if we switched our daughter to a new school it would be hard on her and we did not want to switch her more than once. This meant researching almost every elementary school within a 10 mile radius of our home to find a good fit. We chose St. Mark over several other private schools that are closer to our home because we found the atmosphere so inviting. It turns out that because of the nurturing, cozy environment at St. Mark the transition was MUCH easier than we could have ever imagined for our daughter. Our daughter loves St. Mark School and we love the sense of community there. Within a month of school starting every teacher knew who our daughter was. As parents this gives us a great sense of security. Additionally, the quality of the teachers is very high. The teachers are well-trained and very caring. Lastly, for any non-Catholics (and there are significant number of them at St. Mark), the school is very welcoming. Students have religion class and are taught about Catholicism but in a very inclusive way.
--Submitted by a parent

The October-Fest Carnival this weekend inspired me to write this comment. As a former teacher and former administrator, I felt proud of the community spirit and teamwork shown by the families of St. Mark School. Key qualities were present: Parents whose priority is education, parents who model service and teamwork, and a SAFE place for children to hang out with a POSITIVE PEER group. Besides that, from an administrative point of view, I know that 95% of the Class of 2010 went on to private schools. SMS ranks above grade level in all grades on the national Iowa Test of Basic skills, and small classes ensure that individual needs are met by dedicated, hard-working teachers. St. Mark School is the pride of Venice. Just ask our Lions! Susan Soto-Campos, former principal

Saint Mark School offers your child a safe learning environment. The teachers are fully committed and offer 100% of their time, talents, and energy on a daily basis. The school prepares your child to lead a balanced academic life. There is a great balance between academics, sports, and extra activities.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been the principal here for about 2 months and am already impressed with the professionalism of the staff and the feeling of "coming home". The community here at St. Mark makes you feel welcome and like you have been a part of the family for always. Please stop by and i would love to show you around and share this feeling.