Matthew Turner Elementary School

Mary Farmar Elementary does an excellent job of keeping families informed and involved. Communication is consistent, clear, and supportive, which makes it easy for parents to stay connected to what’s happening at school. The school truly feels like a community. families are welcomed and encouraged to participate in events and activities, which creates a strong sense of belonging.The kids love coming to school every day, and it’s clear why. The teachers are caring, approachable, and really focus on the whole child, not just academics. They pay attention to student development, encourage growth, and support each child’s unique needs. You can tell the staff genuinely want the students to succeed and feel happy at school.

We are technically within Mary Farmer’s remit and landed at Robert Semple as overflow, having moved mid year. Nothing against Mary Farmer (which we don't know) but in light of our delight with RS, we have chosen to remain there for our sons’ remaining elementary school education.

My children enjoy going here. We have only had one teacher out of all the kids’ teachers who we didn’t get along with. Unfortunately, we have found Ms. Buck an abrasive Principal on our dealings with her. I would love to see more diversity on staff. There has been consistent turnover with SPED staff and they increasingly have turned to using computers (Imagine Software) for IEP support and using a videoconferencing speech teacher.

The faculty at this school will go beyond to accommodate my children and my needs. Teachers will do their best as they can. So many parents are involved in all activities. I love this school

Not the best pick. Staff is not the best at all they don’t handle issues with kids or sensitive concerns well. We had an extremely bad experience and we’re very excited and anxious to get her out of there

As a parent who values community, academic integrity, and accountability, I’ve grown increasingly concerned about the direction St. Dominic’s School has taken. While it presents itself as a nurturing and faith-based environment, there are serious issues beneath the surface that families should be aware of.1. Cliquish and Exclusionary CultureThe school community can feel extremely insular and cliquish. New families or those who don’t align with the inner circle often struggle to feel welcomed or included. This culture of favoritism isn’t just among parents — it trickles down to the students and creates an unhealthy social dynamic that can negatively affect children’s confidence and sense of belonging.2. Unprofessional Conduct by StaffOne of the most concerning issues is the presence of at least one teacher who lacks clear credentials and is known to speak disparagingly about students to other parents and staff. This behavior is not only unprofessional but damaging to the trust students and families should be able to place in their educators. There seems to be little to no oversight or accountability when it comes to these actions, which further erodes confidence in the school’s leadership.3. Lack of Academic Rigor and Rampant NepotismThe school consistently underdelivers on its promise of academic excellence. There is a noticeable lack of emphasis on real academic growth and very little follow-through on holding students, parents, or staff accountable for inappropriate behavior. Even more troubling is the consistent nepotism seen across school events — from costume contests to science fairs to student awards. It’s not uncommon to see a teacher’s child win or be recognized in nearly every setting. This favoritism is so obvious that even our own children noticed it and became discouraged despite their efforts.In just the past year, we’ve seen at least 6 students quietly leave the school — and 10 more over the last few years. It’s a sign of deeper, ongoing problems that are not being addressed.Families deserve transparency when choosing a school. Unfortunately, our experience at St. Dominic’s left us feeling disillusioned and disappointed. If you are considering enrollment, I encourage you to speak to a wide range of current and former families — and pay close attention to what’s left unsaid.

This school has been amazing to my two kids so far, with my little one to join next year. The teachers are engaging, the community is supportive, and not only are the kids academically bright, but they learn to be good people and learn how to be responsible citizens. We love St. Catherine’s of Vallejo so much!