1187 Dutton Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95407

Having worked at a variety of schools, including high-performing and high-income campuses, I can say Elsie Allen is often misunderstood from the outside. In my experience, it is a strong, supportive school community where students and staff work together and take pride in their growth.Under the (new) leadership of Mr. Cunningham and Mr. Brookshire, expectations for both staff and students are clear, consistent, and fair. They work closely with staff to support student success while maintaining a structured, positive learning environment, with a shared focus on helping students grow through challenges while upholding high standards.Elsie Allen offers strong college and career opportunities for students. The school provides dual enrollment opportunities in partnership with Sonoma State University, allowing students to take college-level coursework while still in high school. Students also have access to optional classes through Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC), further expanding their exposure to college academics and supporting post-secondary readiness.The school also has a vibrant mariachi program that is an important part of campus culture, offering students meaningful opportunities for performance, confidence-building, and cultural expression.Elsie Allen has a strong multicultural focus, and students are resilient, engaged, and full of potential. In my experience, it is a place where relationships matter, effort is recognized, and the community supports its students. Student voice is also included in school decisions; for example, in planning for the upcoming 7th/8th grade structure, students participated in feedback sessions and helped inform aspects of the campus layout and design.

Amazing school. Both of my children had a great experience with great teachers who cared about them and their success. There was a diverse school population that emulates real world experiences and interactions.

I really liked how the school had many events and many parents involved.

Sheppard Elementary is an amazing school. I have had the pleasure of having two children go from kinder all the way up to 6th and 4th. The staff has always been professional and supportive of any needs a child or family May have. Sheppard has been very accommodating for distance learning and offers extra support in the mornings for the children who may need a little time with the councelor in the mornings. The school is kept clean and very well supervised. I highly recommend Sheppard to anyone looking for a great school.

I feel that this school is great. My daughter has some special accommodations that she needs help with and she has come a long way since second grade when she switched to Roseland Creek Elementary. The staff at this school is excellent.