Via Estrella
Martinez, CA 94553

Wow, Alhambra is the best most impressive school my son has ever been to, Bartholomew the 3rd. There is NO racism, NO homophobia, NO bullying, NO sexism, and especially NO ASSAULT happening on campus. All the teachers have been to Harvard or any other high class collage you can think of. My son has ALL straight A's and his teachers always praise his abilities but he knows he couldn't do it without them. There is no fights at Alhambra and it feels like heaven on earth.

We have two bright boys and were slightly worried about the great school ratings before we entered the school. When our oldest was kindergarten age in 2020, just before covid hit we reached out to both Las Juntas and Morello to ask questions about the schools. Morello was curt and dismissive while Last Juntas offered to give us a tour. It turned out to be the principal (Karen Carlson at the time) who gave us the tour and answered our every question. We were so impressed.Then Covid hit and we had zoom kindergarten - a parent's theoretical nightmare. Watching Karrie Allio teach 20 kindergarteners ON ZOOM was impressive in a whole new realm. I couldn't believe the talent, love, and skills she displayed. When a girl started crying on zoom and was at a daycare center Karrie called the center to make sure one of the staff went to help the girl and calm her down. Likewise watching the music and rec teachers keep the kids excited and engaged was a masterclass in teaching.Since then we've only been more impressed. Almost every teacher has been at Las Juntas for years upon years- they all LOVE their jobs and care deeply for the students, and the students LOVE them. There are many ESL kids and they are loved and taken care of, there are fewer behavior problems than at the richer schools in the district, and the current principal, Pattie Crespo, is a masterclass at thoughtful engagement of parents, teachers, and students. Despite the lower income population the parents are incredibly engaged, taking time off work to come to school plays, carnivals, and open houses. Each of our boys has been among the brightest of their classes and each boy has gotten what he needs to grow emotionally and intellectually, making great friends and learning together. As a parent you hope to find a school where your kids are loved and cared for, where they make friends and enjoy learning. That is everything we have found at this school. We have heard many horror stories from our friends at other schools, and I can just say that if you're worried about your kids attending Las Juntas - don't be. It is truly an incredible school.

They do nothing about bullying, kids vaping, or protecting children. Good luck trying to get in contact with anyone. I would not recommend this school.