Howard Elementary School

I absolutely LOVE Clear Lake Elementary School. I was vey apprehensive about my daughter attending Kindergarten, especially after the Covid Lockdown. The teachers and staff are fantastic. They really care about each student and their families. My daughter cries if she has to stay home from school sick. She doesn’t want to miss out on anything. The Spring Music program is something we look forward to. Ms. Bender made the transition from home to Kindergarten seamless. She ignited a love of learning in my child. Ms. Cotter the absolute best 1st grade teacher. She sends out pictures of the kids and what they’re learning multiple times a week. Every Friday there is a news letter going over the weeks , lessons, special events, Judy everything. It also preps us for the week ahead. I have older children that attended 4j K-12. I felt so left out of the loop until conferences rolled around. And even then it didn’t seem like they cared all that much. Cear Lake feels like family. Mrs. Malala in the office goes above and beyond. Whether you call or message her through the app she immediately takes care of all your needs. I love the new covered play area, it ensures the kids still get outside during all the rain. The Library is full of our authors, like Mo Willems. Music and PE are equally loved my my child. Bus 7 has THE BEST bus driver , I have ever encountered. She is patient, kind and on time. If there is going to be any change she let’s me know right away. School morning relaxed and very pleasant here at home. My child is happy to get up and get ready for school and just go have the best day. None of that would be possible without the wonderful staff teachers Clear Lake Elementary I couldn’t be happier with the experience we’ve had. Actually, I could be happier, we have just found out that our beloved School will be closing due to budget cuts. This is very distressing. I like the pick up and drop off an easy stress, free event. some of the schools Close by have nightmare pick up and drop off. It’s like a congestion it takes forever. It’s just stressful. I will take an older, cozier school where kids get the attention and education they deserve. Those things are priceless. Soon she will become just a number in overcrowded classrooms , the fact that the building is newer is of little comfort. Hopefully the school board will see that our little school embodies all of the values of Bethel school district. I recommend this inclusive school to all.

For all parents with children that struggle with any neurological diversity, please consider any other option. Of a parent with 2 children that suffered from ADHD, scensory processing disorder, type 1 diabetes and more it was awful! Over 5 years with students with Special Needs at that school 0 progress 0 support for the family my children's progress was degressing, they fell so far behind and we spent our days trying to undo the triggers they had to endure every single day at that school. They did well with my son whom does not have special needs...so I guess there is that. We are in ORCA now both children excelling rapidly and finally after years of crying our family feels supported, cared for and encouraged. There are just a few exceptional teachers left at Irving and we will forever be grateful for the kindness and dedication they showed. Other than that this school does nothing but disservice to families of children with special needs. As far as sone of the support staff shame on you for putting money above children as I now know that has become your job.

I have lived in Oregon my entire existence (35 years young). This is literally the best, and I cannot express that enough, best school ever! My daughter was shy, didn't make friends easily and hated going to school till she made it to Melabon. She absolutely loves this school! She's making friends, wanting to go to school and excelling while there. She's finally being challenged which before she wasn't. He had been doing workbooks way before kindergarten. The staff is amazing wonderful people.

Awesome! A friendly, safe environment where the administration,and especially the counselor, have the students welfare, environment and learning experience at the forefront of their actions, whether that be a plan for the day or strategic long term plan/support/goals for a student’s success.

YG and its 30+ year Japanese Immersion Program has been excellent for both my children! The program and its educators value and promote; structure, culture, integrity, kindness, respect and striving for excellence in not only academics but all aspects of life. The community and family involvement has always been excellent! The bond built within my eldest child’s cohort has remained special well into middle school. Most of the long term faculty and educators devote far more time, effort and resources than I’ve witnessed with other schools. The program is moving to a different location and that has been difficult for many, my family is concerned but committed to making it work. We are all hoping that YG will acquire a better and MUCH deserved permanent location soon!