Murphy Ranch Elementary School

I just had to reply to the most recent posting. In my opinion the morale at the school has improved significantly in the past few years due to the caring commitment of our principal and the willingness of the staff to try new strategies. Despite the pressure of constantly needing to improve test scores while dealing with a dwindling budget, Murphy Ranch provides a positive atmosphere for working and learning.
--Submitted by a teacher

Poor leadership, This school has clearly changed throughout all of my children's school years, there is no more enthusiasm, nor moral at this institution.
--Submitted by a parent

Great school, great staff and great leadership. I wish some of these parents with negative comments could see the quality of other schools in the area compared to this one. This is the best elementary school in the district. My advice would be to never leave your child in a school you don t like. Especially one you are publicly trashing. This is a public school, you have an option to go to private or transfer out if you are unhappy. Some complaints are about the technology approved? Take a drive down Whittier Blvd. into Whittier more and visit some schools. I think maybe then you will feel blessed to have your child in Murphy Ranch.
--Submitted by a parent

As local educator who does not work at the school and parent of an attending child, I see evidence that Murphy Ranch excels beyond many schools in the area. For example, I have observed many small group settings in classrooms demonstrating that teachers are differentiating instruction to meet the needs of all students. In addition, I have observed great teacher and principal leadership where both are doing what ever it takes to make certain that each student reaches their highest potential. I think we all need to stop and consider the core values of what schools are all about--our kids getting what they need to be successful for their future. Our focus as parents should be about student success rather than attacking others. Every school has obstacles, and instead of being critical of one another, I think we should work together to create greatness for our children! Let's do what is right here!
--Submitted by a parent

MR is a great school! The teachers, staff, PTA and students are all work together as a team. This school has such wonderful community values and the emphasis on the importance of education is a priority that I think is good to be instilled into my children. The PTA has been able to raise money which is all invested back into our children. We are very fortunate to have leading technology available to our children which will be an asset for the rest of their lives. We love Murphy Ranch!!
--Submitted by a parent

Generally, this is a great school. Everyone seems to be doing their best inculding the principal, teachers and all the parents. I like the special enrichment program that school offers to the 2nd,3rd,4th and 5th graders. I just wish it was offering during the summer. A lot of kids are already having something to do on Saturday.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been disappointed with how little some teachers communicate with parents here. I think the focus needs to be more balanced, not just on test scores. The teacher never called me to let me know important information regarding my child. I think this school needs to work on valuing and getting to know all parents since it is a team effort. Pretty disappointing for such a great community. However, I did feel that the principal was refreshing and seemed to know all the students.
--Submitted by a parent

The pta is horrible. The children need more activities.
--Submitted by a teacher

I am a parent of a new MR student. I am really pleased with the instruction at the school. Of course, there is more to learn about the faculty and the principal and I will have to report as I become more familiar with them. However, with regards to the emergency packets, I am not sure that the blame is properly placed on the principal. My understanding is that the PTA is taking care of this by fundraising and donations from the parents.
--Submitted by a parent

Wow, I am really surprised to hear someone say that the principal is unapproachable. He has always been more than friendly when I have interacted with him. He knows my daughter, who is in Kinder, by name, and always says hi to me as well as my 3 year old if we happen to pass each other.
--Submitted by a parent