48 Barham
Santa Rosa, CA 95407

I am proud to teach with such dedicated teachers. We have a great school community where parents and children are respected and included in school decisions and events like the Fall Festival and winter concert. We also have a fabulous music program where all 6th graders are learning an instrument, and all students get regular music instruction!

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.