Laurel Elementary School

I cannot recommend this school enough. Academically you cannot compare to public schools in the area - every child graduates to at least one of their top choices for private high school. At graduation the children are very well prepared for the rigors of high school. I understand some parents do not love homework, but once high school hits, you need to be prepared not only for the amount of work, but also how to actually manage and balance that with other responsibilities. St Raymond excels at this. The teachers all work for far less than the public school teachers but they do it because they truly love their jobs AND they love the support of the parents and other faculty and administration. You can tell the faculty admire and respect each other as well as respect the principal, Mr. Harrison. There are multiple avenues for children with learning differences to succeed, and there are opportunities for above grade level learning. I think what makes the school so special is the community - everyone has been super welcoming. There are a ton of opportunities to get involved and be a part of the school community at large, as well as just socialize with other families. There really is something for everyone here. The school does an excellent job of keeping parents engaged in their children's learning process. I have always felt that my voice was heard and that parents and teachers are partners in my children's learning. Of course it is a religious school, but the concepts are presented in a way that are appropriate and easy to understand. Nothing is forced, and science is real. Finally I love the the school offers so many special/elective classes with dedicated teachers for Mechatronics, Art, Music and Spanish. They also have after school yoga, academic decathlon, mock trial and tons of sports. I cannot recommend the school high enough. I think the majority of the students live in the redwood city area; I have found the enrolled students to be diverse, as well as grounded and down to earth. We have loved our 8 years so far!

This school has changed over the years, my family has been at peninsula for years and years. My parents went here, I’ve gone here and my kids have gone here as well. Over the past 2 years this school has gone down hill. The current administration really doesn’t care about anything but money. We have donated every year quite generously but the last 2 years we haven’t given anything and will not. The current head of the school is a joke and her “associate” head of school is the worst person that I have ever met in my life. The mass exodus of families , and teachers leaving the place is ridiculous and sad. 100 years being in education seems like they’ve lost their way. Progressive education?! Nope. For the cost of tuition here and what their plan is, you should definitely send your kids to a public school.