President Thomas Jefferson Elementary School

there have been many exciting improvements to instruction that the teachers & staff have been fortunate to implement. The bell schedule was revised to allow for an intervention block where teachers are allowed time during school to work with their students who may have difficulty understanding certain concepts as well as providing advanced work for those students who are accelerated. They also offer their students Physical Education, Music, Character Education, as well as Library and Hawaiian Studies. Teachers are provided time to articulate within their grade level to ensure that discussions about data, curriculum, and instruction take place on a regular basis with the goal of constant improvement leading the way.
--Submitted by a parent

My kids have gone for the past three years. This year the school has gone through a big change. The principal retired last year and we haven't met the new one at any of the events (strange). All the fun seems to be gone, had to tell the kids no hula this year and no ukalele or hip hop classes. Have to say kids are working hard on basic math and reading to up the school scores but the schools cohesiveness is missing. Teachers are still very good and communicative.
--Submitted by a parent

I'm proud to say that I have had my son at Jefferson for the past 3 years and have enjoyed it very much. When we first moved here, the ESL class helped my son become proficient in English in his first year in Kindergarten. They used computers to help out with their learning as well. I'm very proud at the accomplishments my son has achieved while going here with his understanding of English, Math and Reading. They've done everything I had expected from them. I'm sorry to say that we'll be leaving Jefferson next year because we have recently moved but will leave knowing my son has turned out very nicely and he is very prepared to start at his new school next year. Remember, parenting is a big part of their school experience. Be a part of their learning.
--Submitted by a parent

My son attends Jefferson and I think the school is exceptional. The Front Office is welcoming and the Principal is caring. The staff are diverse and the opportunities offered are plenty.
--Submitted by a parent

I feel this school needs quite a bit of improvement. Many of the teachers are stuck in the 1970's style of teaching. The library has very few new books. The principal needs to go.Complete disconnect from the teachers. No art,no music, no trained PE teacher. My daughter has attended for one year and will not go back. The few good teachers they do have send their children to private schools.
--Submitted by a parent