Fair Oaks Elementary School

Posted June 11, 2008

We have just finished the entire 6 years at this school, and we have been increasingly disappointed as time has gone on. There are some wonderful teachers at this school, but essentially they teach math and english only. There is very little science or history taught as the focus is on testing. There are very few enrichment or extracuricullar activities offered although they did have some excellent field trips for 5th graders this year. I like the principal personally but I do not feel that she is effective in her job. There is very little communication between the school and parents. When we have had problems we did not feel supported by the principal. The kids are out of control and rules are not enforced. We were very active in the earlier years but have gradually pulled back as we became increasingly frustrated. We do not recommend this school.
Submitted by a parent

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Posted June 7, 2007

I currently have a son in fourth grade and a daughter in first grade. We love the school. The academic instruction is the same as all the other MDUSD schools. If your child can excel they will and with lots of teacher encouragement. This school is small and the teachers are all dedicated and hardworking. The principal has two young children so she knows what you are going through. Please note: fourth grade music has been fully restored for 06-07 - my son got use of a free school cello and he has excelled. The after school program has been great and it is free. Best of all - look at the diversity at this school. Fair Oaks will prepare my kids for a future where they can interact with people from all backgrounds and cultures. Parent involvement is low but you can change that. The principal totally encourages parent involvement.
Submitted by amy brownell, a parent

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Posted May 25, 2006

I think that this scool is good. My daugter is in kindergarden there and she loves it.
Submitted by Danielle, a parent

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Posted April 24, 2006

It's a safe school, but I would not choose this school today or leave my son here another year -- I'm glad he's transitioning to middle school. Fair Oaks used to have a strong principal and sense of community, a place I felt the kids came first, despite the school's obvious challenges. They do have some wonderful teachers and staff, but a new principal and continuing funding cuts have created a more stressed, less cherishing atmosphere than when my son first began here. The school is failing and we've been advised we can transfer out. All focus now is on passing the STAR tests, even in Special Ed. Very little art, sports or other non-commercial extracurricular activities are offered. Instrumental music has been eliminated for 4th graders.
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