Columbia Elementary School

We have a third grader at Columbia Elementary who has received individualized attention from highly qualified, passionate teachers and is thriving among a diverse student body. The principal is dynamic, driven and committed to whole student success, not just academics. The music teacher is unbelievably enthusiastic and effective at drawing students out of themselves. Teachers put in copious time outside of regular hours to offer enrichment opportunities and compensate for life factors that might otherwise interfere with learning. When judging parent involvement, recognize that this is a neighborhood where parents very often work long hours to make ends meet, and the time they commit is precious. We have seen overwhelming attendance and participation by parents, many of whom are first-generation Americans striving for the dream and committed to the best education possible for their children. We have found teachers and administration to more than match our energy and attentiveness.
--Submitted by a parent

Class size is poor, expectations of students is poor. Limited music, art and storts offered
--Submitted by a parent

I totally concur with the first review of this school - and the entire district. My children languished in these schools, and were often in trouble and forced to sit in corners for hours and hours on end. Individuality is discouraged, and there are even imposed dress codes that make absolutely no sense at all. Add the extremely high crime rate and ghetto-ness of the entire area, and most hope is lost to the young victims. My children came to Western Washington a full two years behind academically, and at least that socially, as well. Fast forward to now: My children now get straight A's and are well adjusted and college-bound. If you truly value your children's future, you will do whatever you have to do to stay away from the Wenatchee Valley.
--Submitted by a parent