Sunset Park

Context: New to the area family. Two kids across two grades (2nd & 3rd).Teachers: We've found the teachers to be very invested in our children as individuals. They partnered with us to provide me context on where my child was strong & where we could invest time. The teachers were patient and did a great job at including all the children in class in teaching. We had one child who is very quiet and would not raise her hand when she did not understand, resulting in not completing in class assignments... and the teacher found that place where she would gently draw my child out; but not make her too uncomfortable. I feel that the teachers care and am very happy with the relationship. One of my daughters, while walking home, just freely said that she loved her teacher. That's a powerful indicator of the relationship these students are developing.Principle: Very involved, and cares. He's doing a great job ensuring a positive learning opportunity. I'd give him an A+.Academic Rigor: My children came from private school (1st grade) and were behind when it came to state testing standards when starting at Grant. Working with the teachers, who sent home (by request) material, I reinforce lessons that got them from behind the pack to the mid-range by mid year. Coming from behind is never easy, but I felt that we left that grade at a reasonable place. I couldn't have done it without great collaboration with the teachers.The following year, one of my children is now in the top percentile (both class and state) and the teacher has given her appropriately challenging material. The other child is still running mid-pack, and her teacher is working with me to reinforce topics as home, still working on her quietness. I am comfortable I can keep her improving and I know I have a partner at the school.Social Commentary: My kids have developed deep and meaningful relationships with their classmates. They occasionally write each other letters, have playdates, and talk about working together on assignments during our walks home. This is important as Grant is in a very diverse part of Santa Monica, with both high-income and lower-income families. There is no perception of "status" among the kids or the parents. I have felt very welcomed and my children, who we check in with often, have not reported any social issues that aren't normal and common for their age. Issues, like bullying, are immediately addressed and have not become problematic.

As a former student here at Will Rogers, I greatly recommend it. All of the staff are absolutely amazing and create everlasting bonds. I trust them with my life. There are various teaching methods so that they can use the one you are most successful with. They have different programs that your child can join such as the Student Council and Peacemakers. They have special needs classes and teachers, in-school therapists, and many other classes such as dance, art, STEM, and Spanish class. Don't listen to any other reviews except this one. PUT YOUR CHILD IN THIS SCHOOL. You wont regret it!