Elementary public schools in Oakland?...
Hi there,
My daughter starts public school in August 2021. Any recommendations on elementary schools? I am hoping to have her attend one that is diverse in its approach and content, in learning. One that has a lot of outside time, and focuses on art, science, etc.
Thank you!
Mar 7, 2021
Parent Replies
Cleveland Elementary School has an outdoor classroom and a strong eco-literacy program. We are at Cleveland. It is a true gem -- a high performing school that genuinely reflects Oakland's diversity. I'm not sure about focus on art or science at Cleveland. Peralta has a strong art program. Chabot has a nice playground. OUSD does not allow a lot of outside time. Recess at public schools is short. You can look at various school websites and see the school schedule. 15 min. recess here and there. 20 min. lunch play time. Curriculum is dictated by CA state and the district. We have learned that the quality and talent of the teacher dictates the type of experience your child will have in class.
You might be aware of this already, but the enrollment process for OUSD is fairly far along already. The lottery closed a few weeks ago and results come out tomorrow. If you are looking for school placement now and don't want to go to your neighborhood assigned option (or can't get in there because it's too full), you'll have to do a post-lottery application. The district and other education nonprofits usually put out of a list of schools that still have spots. So, that should be out soon. That might help you guide your choices as you look for a place.
Hi there,
We are at NOCCS and love the diversity, cross topic art programming, STEM and time in the garden beyond recess. Not sure you are open to charter schools. :) It is small and has an ever growing community of involved families. I will have a kinder and second grader there next year :)
I recommend Peralta Elementary.... they have great parent support and used to have a 'diversity' dinner for all.
I hope someone with recent experience will respond to your question. My daughter has graduated from high school, so my experience is not recent. You don't say where you live. Generally, if there's space, your child will be placed in your neighborhood school. Twenty years ago, it wasn't too difficult to request and be granted a placement in a different Oakland public elementary school (with a few exceptions), but it's my understanding that it's much harder now.
North Oakland Community Charter School is a good option to look into - the school has an arts and social justice focus and the students who attend represent a cross-cut of Oakland cultures. The school has a vegetable garden and chicken coop and is next door to an Oakland public park, so students have plenty of space to play and run. Due to covid, there will be a lot of outdoor teaching. https://www.noccs.org/ The initial lottery has passed, but they're accepting rolling applications and you can do a virtual or in-person tour. oaklandenrolls.org Signed, mom of NOCCS kids