Palm Terrace Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Palm Terrace Elementary School is widely regarded by parents and students as a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. Many families praise the school for its dedicated teachers who go above and beyond to support individual student needs. The school’s focus on fostering creativity and critical thinking has been highlighted in numerous reviews, with parents noting significant improvements in academic performance and student confidence. Community feedback often emphasizes the school’s strong emphasis on communication and parent involvement, creating a collaborative atmosphere between staff and families. Additionally, extracurricular activities and community events are seen as valuable opportunities for students to develop social skills and interests outside the classroom. While some reviews mention occasional challenges with class sizes, the overall sentiment remains positive, reflecting the school’s commitment to continuous improvement and student well-being. The reputation of Palm Terrace Elementary School within the local community is strong, and many families consider it a top choice for early childhood education.
Contact Information
- Phone: (619) 482-7609
- Email: contact@palmterrace.edu
- Address: 673 Willow Creek Road, San Diego, CA 92103
- Website: www.palmterrace.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1987 |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Total Students | 489 |
| Faculty Count | 38 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 13:1 |
| School Type | Public Elementary School |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 7 |
Palm Terrace Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Arts and Music
- Special Education
- Technology
Palm Terrace Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading Fundamentals
- Creative Writing
- Basic Algebra Skills
- Environmental Science
- California History
- Physical Fitness
- Visual Arts
- Music Theory
- Computer Literacy
- STEM Explorations
- Social Skills Development
- Foreign Language Introduction (Spanish)
Online Learning
Palm Terrace Elementary School offers a comprehensive online learning platform that supports students who require flexible learning options or supplemental educational resources. The digital curriculum provides interactive lessons, virtual field trips, and real-time teacher support to ensure continued academic growth outside the traditional classroom. The school integrates technology to enhance engagement and accommodate various learning styles, with a particular focus on literacy and math skills. Online parent portals allow families to track student progress and communicate easily with educators. The school also provides training sessions for parents and students to effectively navigate the online system, ensuring a seamless transition between in-person and remote learning when necessary.
Degrees and Certifications
While Palm Terrace Elementary School primarily focuses on foundational education for young learners, the faculty boasts a highly qualified team with certifications in Elementary Education, Special Education, and ESL instruction. Teachers continuously engage in professional development to stay current with educational best practices and state standards. The school encourages staff participation in workshops and certification programs related to technology integration, literacy advancement, and differentiated instruction to better serve diverse student needs. These credentials contribute to a strong academic environment that supports varied learning pathways and student success.
Summer School
Palm Terrace Elementary offers a robust summer school program designed to prevent learning loss and provide enrichment opportunities for students. The program includes accelerated math and reading classes, hands-on science projects, and creative arts workshops, catering to a wide range of interests and academic levels. Summer school also supports students who need additional help to meet grade-level expectations. Activities are designed to be engaging and interactive, promoting socialization and teamwork. The program runs for six weeks during the summer break and includes optional field trips and guest speakers, encouraging students to explore new ideas and develop a love for lifelong learning.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 78% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 72% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Palm Terrace Elementary School maintains a high retention rate, with the majority of students progressing successfully through each grade level. The school’s early intervention strategies and personalized support programs contribute to minimizing retention. While elementary schools do not have formal graduation rates, Palm Terrace emphasizes readiness for middle school by ensuring students meet developmental milestones and academic standards. The school tracks longitudinal student progress and collaborates closely with families to address any challenges that may affect promotion. Retention is rare and typically reserved for cases requiring additional academic support or social-emotional development, reflecting the school’s commitment to student success and equity.
Palm Terrace Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As an elementary school, Palm Terrace does not require GPA or standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT for admissions. Admission is primarily based on residency within the district boundaries and availability of space for the grade level requested. The school values a holistic approach, focusing on student readiness and the support needs of each child rather than academic metrics. Families seeking enrollment are encouraged to engage with the school’s orientation and open house events to understand academic expectations and extracurricular opportunities. Placement assessments may be used internally to tailor instruction after enrollment, ensuring students receive appropriate support.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 92% |
| 2022 | 90% |
| 2021 | 88% |
Application Requirements
Admission to Palm Terrace Elementary School requires proof of residency within the school district, a completed application form, and documentation including birth certificate and immunization records. Families must also submit emergency contact information and attend a brief orientation session to familiarize themselves with school policies and procedures. For students requiring special education services, additional evaluations and documentation may be necessary to ensure appropriate placement and accommodations. The school encourages early application submission due to limited space in certain grades. Priority is given to siblings of current students and children of staff. The admissions team is available to assist families throughout the process to ensure a smooth transition.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Palm Terrace Elementary School reflects a diverse community with a steady increase in student population over recent years. The school carefully manages class sizes to maintain an optimal learning environment. New student orientation sessions provide families with comprehensive information about academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services. The school actively collaborates with local preschools and community organizations to facilitate early transitions. Enrollment trends indicate strong community support and demand for the school’s programs, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive student body. Transfer requests are considered based on space availability and specific family needs.
Application Process
- Submit residency verification and completed application form.
- Provide immunization and health records.
- Attend a school orientation session.
- Complete any required special education evaluations.
- Review and sign the school’s code of conduct and policies.
- Participate in a brief intake interview if applicable.
- Receive enrollment confirmation and class assignment.
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | February 15 |
| Application Deadline | April 30 |
| Decision Notification | May 20 |
| Enrollment Deadline | June 10 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 5-7 |
Essay Prompt
Palm Terrace Elementary School invites families to share their vision for their child’s educational experience in a brief essay. Applicants are encouraged to describe their child’s strengths, interests, and any specific needs or goals they hope the school will support. The essay should also reflect on how the family values education and how they plan to partner with the school community. This narrative helps faculty understand each student holistically and tailor support to foster success. The prompt is designed to be accessible and encourages honest reflection, providing insights into the student’s personality and family involvement. It also helps the admissions team gauge alignment with the school’s mission and values.
Palm Terrace Elementary School Scholarships
While Palm Terrace Elementary School is a public institution and does not charge tuition, it offers various grants and funding opportunities to support eligible families with costs related to extracurricular activities, field trips, and school supplies. The school partners with local community organizations and foundations to provide scholarships for enrichment programs such as music lessons and summer camps. Applications for these funds are reviewed confidentially by the school’s support staff to ensure equitable access. The goal is to reduce financial barriers and promote participation in a wide range of educational experiences. Families interested in scholarships are encouraged to contact the school office early in the year to learn about available resources and application deadlines.
Palm Terrace Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $25 |
| Technology Fee | $15 |
| Activity Fee | $40 |
| Books and Supplies | $60 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $120 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Palm Terrace Elementary School serves a diverse student population reflective of the surrounding San Diego community. The student body includes children from various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, contributing to a rich learning environment. The school embraces inclusive practices and celebrates multiculturalism through curriculum and events. Many students come from bilingual households, fostering language diversity that is supported by the school’s ESL and language enrichment programs. The demographic variety encourages students to develop empathy and respect for different perspectives from an early age. Palm Terrace is committed to equity and access, ensuring all children have opportunities to thrive academically and socially regardless of background.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of Palm Terrace’s student population qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch programs, reflecting a commitment to serving families with economic challenges. The school provides additional support through community partnerships and targeted intervention programs aimed at closing achievement gaps. Students with disabilities are supported by a dedicated special education team that develops individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each learner’s needs. Palm Terrace prioritizes accessibility and inclusive teaching practices, ensuring students with disabilities participate fully in school life. Resources such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling are available on campus. The school’s approach balances academic rigor with social-emotional support, fostering a positive and encouraging atmosphere for all students.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 48% |
| Male Students | 52% |
| Caucasian | 35% |
| African American | 15% |
| Hispanic | 30% |
| Asian | 12% |
| Other/Multiracial | 8% |
University Diversity
While Palm Terrace Elementary School itself does not directly correlate to university diversity, the school’s emphasis on multicultural education and inclusion prepares students to appreciate and engage with diverse environments in their academic futures. The school’s programs encourage understanding of various cultures and global perspectives, laying a foundation for students to thrive in diverse educational settings. Community partnerships and cultural celebrations enrich students’ experiences and foster openness. Many graduates continue their education in secondary schools that value diversity, and Palm Terrace’s focus on equity equips students with the skills to navigate and contribute meaningfully to diverse academic communities.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Palm Terrace does not track earnings of its graduates. However, the school’s commitment to foundational academic success and socio-emotional development aims to equip students with essential skills for long-term achievement. Early literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills developed at Palm Terrace support students’ future educational attainment, which research links to improved career opportunities and earnings. By fostering a love of learning and resilience, the school contributes indirectly to the economic well-being of its students over time. Family engagement and community support further enhance students’ potential for future success and prosperity.
Graduation Rate
Palm Terrace Elementary consistently promotes high grade-level advancement rates, with the majority of students successfully completing each academic year. The school’s targeted support systems address learning challenges early, minimizing retention and ensuring smooth transitions to middle school. While graduation rates per se are more applicable to secondary education, Palm Terrace’s focus on preparing students academically and socially for future schooling is evident. The school collaborates with families and community partners to create a supportive network that encourages persistence and enthusiasm for education. Continuous monitoring of student progress and individualized interventions contribute to the school’s strong record of student achievement and readiness for subsequent educational stages.
Palm Terrace Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Palm Terrace Elementary is composed of experienced educators dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. Teachers hold certifications in elementary education and many have specialized training in areas such as literacy intervention, special education, and technology integration. Staff members collaborate regularly to develop innovative teaching strategies and share best practices. Support personnel include counselors, instructional aides, and administrative staff who contribute to the school’s smooth operation. The team’s commitment to professional growth and student-centered teaching is reflected in their responsiveness to individual student needs and ongoing efforts to improve academic outcomes. Collaboration with families and community resources is a hallmark of the school’s approach, ensuring comprehensive support for students.
Faculty Profiles
Palm Terrace’s faculty includes a diverse group of educators with varied backgrounds and expertise. Many teachers have over a decade of experience in elementary education, while newer staff bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Several faculty members have advanced degrees in education or related fields, contributing to a rich professional environment. Teachers are known for their passion and commitment to creating inclusive classrooms where all students feel valued. The school encourages continuous professional development, with faculty regularly attending workshops on culturally responsive teaching, technology use, and differentiated instruction. Profiles highlight a blend of veteran educators and new talent, all united by a shared mission to nurture student growth academically, socially, and emotionally.
Palm Terrace Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Palm Terrace Elementary School is situated on a spacious campus featuring modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and specialized facilities for arts and physical education. The school environment encourages active learning and collaboration, with dedicated spaces for group projects and quiet study. While the school does not provide housing, it serves a residential community where many students live within walking distance or use school transportation. The campus hosts various student life activities, including clubs, seasonal events, and family engagement nights that foster a strong sense of community. Safety and accessibility are priorities, with secure entry points and well-maintained grounds enhancing the overall experience for students and families.
Transportation
Palm Terrace Elementary School offers a well-organized transportation system, including bus routes serving the surrounding neighborhoods. The school coordinates with local transit authorities to ensure safe and timely pick-up and drop-off for students. Many families also utilize walking or biking paths, supported by the school’s initiatives promoting healthy and environmentally friendly transportation. For students with special needs, the school provides tailored transportation accommodations. Parking facilities for parents and staff are available on campus, facilitating easy access during school hours. The transportation program emphasizes safety and punctuality, contributing to a smooth daily routine for students and families alike.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Palm Terrace Elementary School periodically offers job openings for teaching positions, instructional aides, administrative roles, and support staff. The school values candidates who demonstrate a passion for education, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to student success. Career opportunities include full-time and part-time roles as well as substitute teaching positions. The school encourages professional growth by providing mentoring and ongoing training for staff. Interested applicants can find current openings on the school website or contact the human resources office directly. Palm Terrace seeks to build a diverse and dynamic team that reflects the community it serves and supports innovative teaching practices.