Sycamore Academy of Science and Cultural Arts

I have a son at Sycamore Academy and it has been a great learning environment for him. I don't judge a school based on a website that a few parents give their opinions; I base my opinions after thoroughly checking out a school. Before placing him at Sycamore I spoke with the office staff, I took a tour, asked lots of questions and I even sat in on a class and observed his possible teacher. My concerns were addressed as were questions I didn't even think to ask and I am happy with the decision I made to place my son at Sycamore. My son is not behind or failing, but then I am not a parent who stresses about my child being a high achiever. I want my child to become the best that he can be and Sycamore is the right fit for us. He is at a school with caring staff and students that are taught that each of them matter and can make a difference in this world.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been going here since it opened.I have learend so much from when i started here.They have excellent teacher,strong leadership,and challenging academic progams.Kids make life time long friends,great learning environment.The staff helps in classrooms,principals walk through the class's and help students.I reccomend this school to every one in k through 6.

This is an outstanding school with an enthusiastic and dedicated staff. This school does have young teachers, but everyone of them is qualified, accessible, knows their students extremely well and always willing to go above and beyond to help their students. I love the fact that they are young, energetic and innovative. This school is focused on the whole child and not just reading and math like most schools. My children have become independent, creative problem solvers in the 3 years they've attended and despite the rough start, this school has become an amazing educational community and as far as I know, the only local elementary that is fully WASC accredited!
--Submitted by a parent

I wouldn't recommend this school! I had two students enrolled here and feel that the whole school year was a complete waste of time! I feel that my kids actually regressed while being at sycamore academy. Please parents think twice about enrolling your children here, the teachers are friendly but the curriculum is not up to par! Both my kids ending up testing below grade level when they left this school. Such a disappointment.
--Submitted by a parent

My doughter absolutly love this school, we feelt the diffrence wright away when we came to sycamore academy. Teachers are always smiling and friendly, very involved in progress of their students.Great school!
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children at Sycamore, K and 3rd. We have attended Sycamore since the first day they opened the doors, We have NEVER thought of leaving this school, and will continue to attend as long as my children are in school. My kids LOVE going to school, it has never been a fight, My son is Excelling and is above his grade level in reading and math. My daughter loves doing reaserch papers, and has no problem standing up in class reading a report. Everyone on staff knows my children and knows our family. My son Came home the other day upset that he can not stay at school as long as his older sister, and announced how much he loves Sycamore academy. If you want a great school, where You'r child is NOT just a number, and is loved by all the staff, where they want to go to school and excited about learning. Come to Sycamore!!
--Submitted by a parent

Surprised by some of the reviews I've read here but then I know you can't please everyone. I believe when it comes to our children's school - you must be involved. Read/respond to teacher emails, visit and speak with the teacher in person. Open your child s backpack every day and see if there is something in there, etc... I have two kids at Sycamore - one who has been there since they opened and I couldn't be happier - unless we had a huge grassy playground, which I'm sure we'll have someday Both of my kids are excelling at Sycamore. They have amazing teachers and they love to go to school. I'm not sure why someone said Sycamore doesn't give homework. We have homework, approx. 30min - 45min a day and that doesn't include reading which we do daily. If you are looking for a new school for your child, give any school you are considering a chance, don t just go by what you read and/or are told. I think before you can say anything about any school you must spend some time there. I ve spent 3 years here I m involved (there nearly every day) and yes, I m very happy.
--Submitted by a parent

I wish I never would have switchedmy children to this schools. Super unorganized, very little (if any) homework. Issues are not taken seriously. No assignments ever come home. I have no idea what they are learning in class. Sycamore doesn't feel like a real school. I feel as though my child are missing out and falling behind. We will be finding a new school.
--Submitted by a parent

I admit to being skeptical of this school in the beginning. They do things differently. After asking a lot of questions and observing my child, I was reassured that I had made the right decision. My daughter (1st grade) is excelling at Sycamore Academy! She is excited about learning and loves her school! She has plenty of homework! This school requires a lot of parent involvement and participation in your child's education. If you are expecting to find a thick packet of worksheets for your child's homework each week you won't find that here. My daughter is already reading chapter books, and writing book reports. She is working on a research report of her favorite activity, jumping rope. At my first parent/teacher conference I was pleased to notice how well the teacher "knew" my daughter. A plan was put in place that outlined what my daughter needed to work on but in a way that would be meaningful for her. I am very happy with Sycamore Academy. Caring, energetic teachers, and friendly, helpful staff. Principal and VP are to be commended for their outstanding school!
--Submitted by a parent

I really believe that the office secretary could have a more sensitive and warm personality. she comes off cold and disconnected from the children. Besides her, everyone else is superb.
--Submitted by a parent