5854 Caliente Way
Gilroy, CA 95020

The kids were mean. I felt the staff didn’t care about us besides a select few teachers. The ONE teacher that made me feel seen had to leave, a student threw a stink bomb in his class and wrote a slur on his desk. It was hard to find an open bathroom and I almost wet myself multiple times. Some of the rules were absurd, like “no blankets”. I’m anemic and sweaters aren’t enough for winter so I brought a blanket and they told me to take it off. Events were poorly organized. Don’t even ask the counselors anything, they’re barely any help. Worst years of my life, I didn’t even realize I was depressed until I left and got better. I was mostly a straight A student, but I felt like I didn’t learn much and wasted my time there.

I am incredibly pleased with the experience my child has had at Las Animas Elementary School. The staff here are truly exceptional, always going above and beyond to ensure a positive and nurturing environment for the students. The new principal that joined in 2024/2025 school year is a remarkable leader, demonstrates care for both the students and the staff. Their approachable nature and commitment to excellence have made a significant impact on the school community. I was impressed by her response to parents emails. The yard duties are equally commendable, maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for the children. They are vigilant and attentive, ensuring that every child feels secure. Still continue to be impressed over the years and how well they know the names of each child and how they know who their parents are and by name too. The teachers at here are outstanding. Their passion for teaching and genuine concern for their students' well-being and academic progress is evident in everything they do. They create engaging and effective learning experiences that inspire and motivate the children. Lots of parent volunteer experiences and we've grown our community through school and our child's sports. We love it here!Overall, Las Animas Elementary School is a wonderful place for children to learn and grow. I highly recommend this school to any parent looking for a supportive and enriching educational environment for their child.

Fabulous principal, vice principal, teachers, and counselors who care about their students and often go above and beyond to provide their students with the best possible junior high experience. They even offer many outside the classroom activities such as lunchtime games, talent shows, dances, trunk-or-treat, theater, and of course, many sports activities.