Onate Elementary School

I am new to this school and what a challenge just to get my child into class. The staff constantly harp on how you can't disrupt the class, to the point of keeping the children out. A teacher made the comment that the staff is very protective of them against the parents, and that is an understatement. It seems they view the parents as the enemy and keep them away from both the school and the teachers. You cannot talk to the teacher before or after school with any concerns, you have to wait until parent conference. I really like the teacher and feel she has a genuine concern for her students, but parent participation / communication is almost against the rules. The secretary/clerk run the school because the principal is only there 2 to 3 days a week and they treat the parents like they are the evil force they must protect the school against. In short, I love the teacher, but dislike the staff. If you enroll your child here, be prepared to go to battle when dealing with any staff member.
—Submitted by a parent

This is our neighborhood school. We've had children attend here for a long time. It is a bit smaller in population than other schools, so it has a bit of a family feel. I can't think of a teacher I don't like. They have always seemed genuinely interested in my children's education. I know everyone here and everyone knows my family.
—Submitted by a parent

I am so glad to have left this school. I adored the teachers, but the administration left much to be desired. My children have progressed so much more since leaving this school. I wish I had done it five years ago.
—Submitted by a parent

Great teachers and good adiminstration! Great teacher to student ratio
—Submitted by a parent

Have two children at Onate. The size is extremely manageable and I feel that the teachers know all of the students. Teachers, principal, staff and parents are dedicated to making it a great school. The non-traditional schedule is a plus. We are transfers and couldn't think of a better place to send our children.
—Submitted by a parent

my child attends this school and seems to do just fine but very often the environment surrounding activities (when we have them) make me feel like an outcast. the principal is very snobish almost like she is the queen and will deal with things secretly and only when she feels like it. it really is very sad. i pointed her out to my son and he had no idea who she was. i adore the teaching staff, but it almost feels like they are being watched and are very careful about their interactions and conversations with the parents. i really feel it is very midevil around there.
—Submitted by a parent

The school is a wonderful school for children to learn and grow. The curriculum is on target and the teachers are dedicated.
—Submitted by a former student

Onate is a great school. The principal has high expectations, both academically and behaviorally and is clear and consistent with these. Most teachers are great. My only concern is that we lost our School Counselor. Mrs. Moulton was exceptional! She knew all the kids and they knew her. She was in the classrooms and worked with students individually and in small groups. She helped them socially and academically. She made a huge difference to students and parents...
—Submitted by a parent

I really love Onate for my child! Currently there are 2 classes per grade level and the smaller size and teacher attention feel like a private school might. I have been involved in my child's classroom and in bigger school activities (through PTA). The teachers have always welcomed me and have appreciated my help with special projects or events. The school counselor seems to really work on preventing, and educating the kids about bullying, etc. We love the alternative schedule! It is really not much different than the traditional school calendar. Onate will start 2 or so weeks early and have an additional break in October. I have not had problems with the principal, but I don't see her being 'hands on' or very personable with the children or parents. We are actually supposed to be at another school, but we 'transfer' into Onate every year.
—Submitted by a parent

While the staff for the most part are greatly qualified and caring, the principal is cold, lacks people skills and does not seem to have any genuine concern for her students. Safety issues within the community are glossed over, if ever addressed. Parents are definitely felt unwelcome on the campus.
—Submitted by a parent

The principal is not open to changes even when presented with overwhelming parental opinion. Recess is a disaster with K-5 together and not enough supervision. PE twice a week while are and sports are almost non-existent. The quality of teaching does make up for most of it's downfalls.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is not well equiped with a principal and teachers, no parent involvement because they do not allow it.
—Submitted by a parent