3503 Monroe Ave
San Diego, CA 92116

B+ is the grade I would give.

I am a substitute teacher, and recently had a single day assignment at this school. Let me start off by saying that I am a fully credentialed teacher, and have subbed at the vast majority of middle schools within San Diego Unified. My experience at this school was nothing short of shocking. Every school no matter where you go has the classroom "handfuls," but at this school these students have zero respect for adults and lie to teachers like it's a knee jerk reaction. Very sad state of affairs. Apparently there are no consequences at this school, and you can tell that from the attitude of the trouble makers. It's probably a school that subscribes to the notion of "restorative justice." It's sad that the school lets the classroom trouble makers ruin the educational experiences of the majority of students who genuinely appreciate the value of education. The funny thing is that I had subbed at Mann Middle School down the street the day before, and it was a night and day difference. Like I tell people all the time, the atmosphere of the school dictates everything. From the administrators, to the resource assistants, and teachers. If everyone isn't on the same page, then the students will suffer!

Normal Heights Elementary definitely comes off as a viable option for your child. In the years that my child has attended this establishment, I've taken note of a few things. (1) LACK OF COMMUNICATION; Teachers are slow, if not, borderline negligent when notifying parents of planned class projects, or simply providing updates that deviates from a class' normal schedule. This isn't limited to the Teachers. Even with the aid of an app called "Class Dojo", I still have not received a response from the Principal regarding an inquiry.(2) THE RECRUITER ; Although, a very nice and polite individual, the Principal comes off as a recruiter, rather than a "Principal". Whether it is casual small talk, or in auditorium, if you have another child younger than 4 years of age, be prepared for conversation to deviate and expect to be asked about the child's age, attending TK4, and whether or not your toddler would possibly qualify for enrollment, even if you have no inquiries, or concerns about the topic. I understand that there's funding in numbers, however, sometimes an individuals demeanor breaks through a little too much, and bit uncomfortable at times. Yes, it has happened more than once.(3) IDEOLOGICAL FARCE; "Community", "Consideration", and "Child Well-Being", are a few things that all will agree with. Personal experience has given me the privilege of encountering Teacher(s) with a "power-trip" mentality. There are Teachers who will "shift blame" about "forcing to make a scene" when a Parent is attempting to console their crying child. Most logical, and sympathetic individuals would allow a Parent to help calm, and comfort their own child. However, I don't know if it was discrimation, bias stance or simply an unknow reason for retaliatialion by Teachers, nevertheless, Teachers or any other Staff Member that exhibit this sort of behavior are not about "Community", "Consideration" or a "Child's Well-Being", moreover, it unequivocally unacceptable. I've forgiven the Teacher's outburst, and dismissed incident as a "mismanaged situation", but it seems as though some Teachers like to hold grudges. Very sad situation.(4) TAKE AWAY; Pay close attention to the Staff and the conversations you have. New Parents shouldn't be discouraged. Schools are like businesses. If a particular company doesn't serve you and your child's best interest, look for another company. The key is School Tranparency, and respect for a Parents sacrifice, responsibilty, and obligation.