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Woodland Hills Elementary School
(818) 347-9220
22201 San Miguel St.
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Level: K-5
District: Los Angeles Unified School District

Extended Information

In-depth school information including test scores, student stats, parent ratings and reviews for Woodland Hills Elementary School, Woodland Hills, CA.

Census Info	Value	Year
White, non-Hispanic:	72.12%	(2009)
Black, non-Hispanic:	5.76%	(2009)
Hispanic:	9.19%	(2009)
Asian:	9.97%	(2009)
Pacific Islander:	0.16%	(2009)
Native American or Native Alaskan:	0.78%	(2009)
Unspecified:	0.31%	(2009)
Filipino:	1.71%	(2009)
Percent Free and Reduced Price Lunch:	4.26%	(2008)

Woodland Hills Elementary School Ratings Summary

Average Quality Rating	4
Average Principals Rating	4
Average Teachers Rating	4
Average Activities Rating	4
Average Parents Rating	4
Average Safety Rating	4

Woodland Hills Elementary School Reviews


Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2008-09-17 “Everyone in the neighborhood bragged about this schoo, and boy were they right. I couldn't be happier. My child couldn't be happier. He loves his teacher. He looks forward to going to school every single day. And after going to the parent teacher meeting, I can't believe the things they are going to learn in kindergarten. It's amazing! I am so happy we chose this school over a private school.” Posted By: other Quality Score: 5 2008-06-13 “WHES is as fine an elementary school as can be found. High expectations, excellent instruction, caring administrators,involved parents and fantastic students in a beautiful setting. Who could ask for more? Of course, like any human enterprise, nothing is perfect, but this school is pretty darn close. Get involved-you'll see!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 2 2008-05-30 “I unfortunately must agree with the previous poster. I too am very dissatisfied with the administration. I still have two years at the school but am considering moving my child to another school. The tone of the school is not the same. Parents that used to be active or no longer are interested. The assistant principal is in charge. I think it is important to have a stronger leader and we do not have that now. It should be the principal at the help not his assistant.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2008-05-23 “I have one more year with my child at this school. I have found it a great disappointment this year. The admosphere has greatly changed. The teacher appreciation week was very low key. We like to show the teachers how much we appreciate what they have done but the new administration has put up a road block. The school no longer feels as cutting edge as before. Although becoming an distinguished school is important, there were many schools that also became one this year which are in dismal shape. I want to see the API scores continue to rise. If they fall significantly, then the district needs to really look into what is taking place with the new administration. We have many students who still need to be brought up to grade level. I am very concerned for the future of the school.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 1 2008-05-16 “I agree with the last post. The school is beautiful and that we received the Distinguised School Award is based on the hard work of the previous administrator. It is also true that present administration was able to tie the ribbon by writing the grant. We all must remember that the Distinguised School Award is not forever. We will have to rewrite for it in about three years or so. Hopefully, under the new administration things will continue to improve and we will keep that status. There are schools that have lost the award when they reapplied. So let's keep striving to be the best.” Posted By: other Quality Score: decline 2008-04-18 “Our school is so beautiful it should be on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens. We have the most amazing teachers and aides. Our custodian does his job with pride. The students are bright and inquisitive. I don't understand what it is you feel we lack? I wasn't aware a school should be run like a popularity contest. Mr. Bluestein is doing an admirable job as Principal. It takes character to run the school, implementing the techniques he feels are right without worrying about his popularity. He does listen to others. Be positive and supportive. Perhaps you should look inside to see where the unhappiness is coming from.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-04-02 “Simply the best teachers, parents, administrators, TA's, and community supporters around. One of the the best in the US!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-04-01 “WHES is a fantastic school witha great principal and VP! In past years, although test scores were high, the principal was affraid to apply for a peer review; now the new principal has brought WHES the 2008 California Distinguished School, a peer review of the highest caliber. Plus, the school has gotten rid of paper flyers by the dozens every week and sends communications to parents and teachers by e-mail.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-04-01 “The 2007/08 school year at WHES has been a great year! The school has been cleaned up and years-old weeds removed and replaced with beautiful California plants. The outside matches the inside now. There is a rigorous yet much calmer, non-confrontational mood now. What a pleasant place to learn! From a mom and neighbor/LK” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-03-26 “WHES Rocks. Congratulations on the 2008 Distinguished School Award, We all knew it before but for outsiders to tell us our school is great means even more. Thank you to the teachers, staff, students, paents and especially the adminstration for being the best that they can be.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-02-25 “The school is being recognized for many years of hard work with the distinguished school award. It's always been 'inside information' but now word is out that WHES is a California Distinguished School. Congrats to the teachers and parents and administrators that brought the state recognition to the school. Way to go WHES.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-02-16 “This month, the school and the parents have beautified the front of the school with beautiful plants and native species of California plants. With the high academics and the beautiful campus, this school is tops, second to none.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2008-02-07 “Woodland Hills Elementary is a fantastic school, and now--for the first time ever--a nominee for the 2008 California Distinguished School recognition. Way to go WHES!” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2007-12-03 “What a great school this is! Great teachers and administratrs, parents and students. A loevly environment... very welcoming!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-29 “I have also called and e-mail the principal and he always gets back to me within a couple of hours, everytime. The two teachers that serve my children and also extremely responsive and delightful. It is a pleasure to be at WHES. And now it's better than ever.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-14 “I am an involved parent and have been at WHES for a number of years, and I have to say that this has been the best and calmest and most respectful year in a long time. The new principal does not play favorites and he allows others to have points of view including the teachers and parents, which is a pleasure and long overdue. The principal, the vice principal, teachers and parents TOGETHER are running the school, and that's a great thing!” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 4 2007-11-14 “Staff has always had a say so in how the school was run. That is what made us so happy to be at WHES. We are all adjusting to a new style of leadership. There doesn't have to be comparisons made but a realization that this is a great school. Every leader has their own style. I have worked under many principals at this school and each has their pros and cons. Let's be grateful that the school is set up so that it runs well no matter who is at the helm.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2007-11-14 “WHES is a great school and always has been. It has wonderful teachers and a take charge assitant principal. The principal is new and hasn't done anything significant at the school. Everything is running smoothly because it was set up that way for years. The school could run on its own. The office staff is courteous and knowledgeable. The Plant manager is fabulous. What else could you want in a school.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2007-11-12 “As a teacher working at WHES for a long while, I can honestly say that all the teachers teach to the state standards at this fine schools. The principal allows the teachers to make a choice, for example, if there should be a 4th grade trip, and what the teachers think the 5th grade trip should be. That's what continues to make WHES great!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-10 “As a long-time staff member here, I can honestly say that we have a very welcoming environment. The teachers teach to the standards and go over and above what they need to do. The new principal and the new teacher are both great. The veteran teachers are fantastic as well.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 4 2007-11-09 “As a teacher here for many years, we have always had a welcoming environment. I do feel a difference in the school and am not sure yet how I feel about the new administration. Only time will tell me that. We are all waiting to see what happens when there are true issues and how they will be handled. This is a honeymoon period for WHES. The school runs smoothly because that is the way it was organized and hoepfully this will not change. We are not only about test scores but seeing the child as a whole. Evaluation of this year will have to wait until July.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2007-11-09 “We now have a welcoming environment that is a pleasure to work in.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-08 “It is not even a private school education, becaues it is better than private school. There are few schools statewide that score better than WHES. The campus is beautiful and everyone is fabulous.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-08 “Woodland Hills is simply the finests school around with great teachers and a great principal and assitant principal. Highly recommended.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-11-07 “I am a parent of two kids at WHES and I must say that every student at WHES is getting a free 'private school' education at this fine school and outstanding teachers and administrators.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2007-11-02 “Woodland Hills Elementary has a good academic program with test scores to prove it, but it is failing in the area of student relationships and common courtesy. My child comes home every day with stories describing incidents of bullying and the use of foul language. I am so glad this will be my child's last year at this school.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 4 2007-10-31 “WHES is a wonderful school with dedicated teachers. We have never taught to the test but the State Standards. There are already many extra wonderful activities accomplished in the classroom. We are doing what we are told and hopefully, Mr. Bluestine will ensure that we continue to soar academically.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-10-31 “As a parent of two Woodland Hills students (one now in middle school), I must say that WHES is a fantastic experience and the classrooms are wonderfully unique and the teachers and administrators are hard working.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-10-31 “WHES is one of the best schools in the state. We have great teachers that work 200% all the time, plus a principal that can both dress up like Woody on Haloween and play handball with the kids, and do the principal work that needs to be done. The parent group, PATT, is run by fine people and are not dominating. It's just a great place to be. Thank you.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2007-10-30 “This is my second year as a parent at WHES. This year the principal greets students and parents at the corner every day. Great staff, teachers and parent involvement make a great school. A principal that is embracing like Mr. Bluestein will encourage more parents like myself to donate, volunteer and he will hang on to great teachers. With kind leadership we may be able to move our curriculum further past 'teaching to the test' and on to other 'passion for learning' type skills. That would be a special treat for a LAUSD school! Great work WHES teachers and staff. Welcome to you Mr. Bluestein!” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2007-10-30 “This is a fantastic school with a fantastic staff or aides, teachers, and administrators.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2007-10-29 “There are no split classes at WHES and the computer lab is not used as an extra classroom. The school is just fine. Mr. Bluestine is rarely seen except in the mornings. The parents who are on permit are hard working a contribute a great deal to the school. Teachers work hard and students are courteous and eager to learn.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-10-29 “The school is overcrowded.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2007-10-27 “The only thing that bothers me about this school is the over-crowding. Mainly caused by too many kids being allowed in on a permit. Extra teachers, using the computer class as a classroom, split classes, etc. Was this the doing of our previous principal? Why are so many allowed to come to this school on a permit? I hope that changes next year. - WHES parent and local resident” Posted By: staff Quality Score: 3 2007-10-27 “WHES is a great school. The teachers were the ones that decided to take in more children in fourth grade so that the classes would remain smaller. The previous principal is the one who hired all these fabulous people that have been mentioned: Mr. Richards, Mr. Price and Mrs. Moche. Mr. Bluesteine has kept his promise not to change things at the school. The school ran beautifully and will continue to do so. Let's pass our judgements at the end of the year and see how things go. You are lucky if your child attends this school.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-10-26 “I also have a special needs child and have found WHES warmly welcoming and inclusive of my child. The school wants to have the kids and supports them in all ways possible. The special education folks--Mrs. Moche, Mr. Price, Mr. Richards and Mr. Bluestein--are tops A+. Thank you.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2007-10-24 “I have a student with special needs at WHES. I have dealt with both resource teachers and they are amazing. They are always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty. They are extremely approachable and knowledgeable. They make sure that my child gets all the services possible to help her succeed. WHES is a better place because of Mr. Price and Mr. Richards.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2007-10-23 “Fantastic school with the highest test scores around. The students are supported by their parents and smart, and probably don't even need teachers. But the teachers and administrators at Woodland Hills are tops anyhow.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2007-10-06 “Have to say that 5 years ago with 'the old principal' my child was in a split class, actually for 2 years. She did do split classes. No different than what 'the new principal' is doing now. Sometimes depending on the number of students per grade you have to do that and it worked out beautifully and was a very positive experience. They take independent learners and it is fine. I say give this man a chance. The other principal was such a mean spirited rude woman that parents could not speak to and that children were afraid of, this will be a positive change, I am sure, just give him a chance.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 4 2007-10-06 “The school is a great school. The old principal got the school to where it is today. The teachers respected her and she always did what was best for them and the children. She was not there to be nice but run a school and that she did superbly. The same goes for this principal. Who might handle things differently. That doesn't mean he is bad but that is his personality. Meanwhile, what a great place to send your child.” Posted By: staff Quality Score: 4 2007-10-06 “Woodland Hills is a wonderful school. The teachers are great, the children are great and so are the parents.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2007-10-06 “WHES is like a private school. The downfall is that some parents feel that they are entitled. They don't leave running the school to the experts. WHES has a good and caring staff. The previous principal was strong and ran a tight ship which will make it easier for this principal. I have been at this school for over 15 years. When my first child entered, the school appeared to be run by parents who insulted teachers and complained continuously. Now, the parents are more respectful for the most part. It is not important to like the new principal. His job is to run the school. Mr. Bluestein will do things his way and that is fine but no need to insult what got us here. Modeling respect is important. The educators at this school will continue to do what is best for children.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: decline 2007-10-04 “We have a great principal that the students and parents are not afraid of. He has not 'kicked out' permit kids, but has included everyone. He knows the rules and follows them, and asks the teachers to do the same. The teachers are great and it shows in the scores.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-10-04 “I have had children at this school for 6 years. It is a fabulous school. Mr. Bluestein is not a strong leader but is trying his best. It is hard for him to come in and follow such a strong leader but he will learn with time. I agree with one of the quotes. The jury is still out. Let's see if the academics will stay the same and the scores continue to rise. I do not feel it is the best year so far. There was a lot of confusion in the beginning.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-09-30 “The new principal created a class that has two grades in one. The old principal would stand up to LAUSD bosses and tell them that split classes would not be permitted at WHES--we are not like the other schools which is why our scores ares so high. He is a nice guy, always professional, but he will not stand up to his bosses at the local district for the benefit of children.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2007-09-20 “I think this school has never been better. It is one of the highest scoring schools in the entire state, and the highest in the Valley. The new Principal is highly responsive to praents and a welcome change; the faculty has superb; and many parents volunteer. Thanks WHES!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-09-18 “This is a great school in general! Parent involvement, teachers, and extracurricular activities are excellent. The new principal has my vote for a better future at this lovely school. The strength of a true leader is measured by values such as respect toward others, kindness, and consideration. Role modeling appropriate social behavior by the principal is important. Mr. Bluestein seems to have this ability!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2007-09-17 “I have four children who have attended WHES. It is a fabulous school and I only hope that this new principal, Mr. Bluestein, has the ability to fill the shoes of his predecessor. So far, I find him friendly but not a strong leader. Hopefully, he will get stronger as the year goes on. WHES needs a leader who can continue to keep the school as fine as it is.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2007-09-17 “2 kids...totally different...one very academic and one very social....both had the appropriate teachers and were challenged...” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-09-04 “I love this school. My son attended this school 15 years ago, and now I have a second grader and K attending this year. I am so glad to be able to send them to the same school. The school was great 15yrs ago, and is still great now. Sorry to see the principal leave, but the kids need a stronge leader and I think she was great at it.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-08-16 “For a public school in LAUSD, WHES provides an amazing education for my children. We feel very lucky to have moved here!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-08-14 “Fabulous school with a wonderful staff and principal. Everything is geared toward the child and meeting their individual needs. I have three children who attend WHES. Two of my children are SAS and one has a learning disability. The staff has made sure that the needs of all my children have been met. Extremely safe environment. Principal ensures that nobody comes on campus who does not belong. Puts my mind at ease.” Posted By: former student Quality Score: 5 2007-06-21 “As a former student of WHES,I feel that who I am today has been shaped by their fabulous teachers, staff, and yes, Principal. She makes the children safe, happy, and helps them learn. Parent involvement is terrific because the teachers are so appreciative and it gives guardians the chance to connect and have close ties with others. I used to go to Kids Club after school, where I met former and present day babysitters and friends. Although the homework load can be a bit overwhelming for some children, the teachers are very approachable and will definitely understand. This school is not for every kid, but perhaps it is for yours. 5 stars all around to a deserving, welcoming school. I come back to visit sometimes, and the only difference I've seen in it is improvement. I recommend it.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-05-29 “We are so lucky to have our children here at whes!we have been here for 5 years and have 5 more to go! the teachers are top notch and truly go the extra mile for the kids.They have identified each of our children's talents and deficits and encouraged growth in both areas.Our kids have developed excellent study habits for the future. The parent involvement is huge and the extras that the kids have are amazing. If you have a chance to attend this school -don't miss out!it is like going to private school -with the cost of a public educatation.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2007-05-15 “My kids have been at this school for 4 years now and although I feel the principal is strict and at times rude, so what! It's not about me liking her, it's about my kids feeling safe at school and teachers who feel respected enough to teach and that is what this principal has achieved. I have friends, I don't need her to be one, I only need her to provide a safe, learning environment. Bottom line: I'd much rather she be in charge than all the parents. Someone has got to lead. I've experienced a school without a strong leader and it simply does not work. This is an excellent school if you can leave your ego at the door...and what a nice message for your children.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2007-05-09 “We pulled our child out after 2nd grade. We bought our house to go to this school. Teaches to the test. Not a good school for independent or creative thinkers. I didn't like how the kids all talked about who was in the gifted classes. I was very involved with the parent group and think they do a lot of good at the school. Not a very welcoming campus for parents. Does have a couple of amazing teachers but I chose to send my younger child to a different school.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 1 2007-05-07 “OK school if your child is highly gifted. If your child is 'average' you will get nothing for your child. This is gifted factory to boost scores. Insane amounts of homework.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2006-12-09 “Many of the teachers are caring, hard-working and dedicated to giving the children the best possible education. The main disadvantage is the principal who is test-oriented.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-10-29 “This is a really good school. For the most part, most of the teachers are wonderful. They provide interesting, stimulating activities and the children are prepared for the following years. There are some though that make me wonder why they are still teaching. They have horrible attitudes and are very mean to the children. The parent group is wonderful and they have alot of extras for the children. The schools downfall is definitely the principal.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2006-10-29 “The school has so many wonderful teachers and activities, but the principal thinks the means justifies the ends. Strangely, I thinks she believes what she is doing is right.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-10-29 “The parent involvement is amazing. The teachers work hard and are very caring.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-10-08 “Fabulous school with mostly hard working teachers. Principal really works hard to make sure that staff and students get all that they need. She is tough but the school needs that in order to run properly. Most parents are fabulous. School has very little money from district and relies heavily on parent donations. Does have a great deal of gifted students but my child is at the other end of the spectrum and has received tremendous services to support him and enable him to be successful. Highly recommended if you can get in.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-09-29 “Woodland Hills Elementary is a great school! Both my children have had wonderful teachers and experiences at the school. There are many opportunities for parents to get involved if you want to. I find the teachers and principal very approachable. I feel they are truly looking out for the best interest of the child. If you take the opportunity to get to know the principal, you won't be sorry! She has done so much for the school! Our school wouldn't be what it is today without the strong leadership of our principal. We also have a great librarian and library program for the kids. Keep up the good work!” Posted By: staff Quality Score: 5 2006-09-25 “Hardworking staff. Principal that takes care of business and is not afraid to do what is right for children. As at any school, a small group of parents that do absolutely everything and they are great... The rest just step back and do nothing.” Posted By: staff Quality Score: 5 2006-09-25 “Most parents are really helpful and involved. The extracurricular opportunities are endless. Staff is very collaborative.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2006-09-25 “I have worked here for over 20 years and feel that this principal is the best that I have ever worked with at any school site. She is supportive and protective of her staff and does what is best for each student not their parent. She serves as a barrier between staff and those parents that feel they can come onto a school site and run the show. When she leaves, so will I and many others.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2006-09-25 “Beautiful school with great teachers and a principal that is approachable to those that approach her with respect. She helped my child who has special needs when the district would not. She fought for my child relentlessly and I truly appreciate all her efforts. Get to know her and you will understand all that she does for our children.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2006-09-22 “Principal supports staff. Teachers have high expectations for all students and expect parents to obey rules. Which at times is difficult to enforce at this school. Collaborative efforts made between staff and parents to provide students with what they need to achieve.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2006-09-19 “Fabulous school. Principal has extremely high standards and does not allow parents to run school. She does what is best for children.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2006-09-19 “My child spent only one year at WHES. The overbearing principal was enough for us to enroll my child in private school. Other than that the school has great parents and many excellent teachers.” Posted By: staff Quality Score: 5 2006-09-19 “I have been at WHES for 14 years. It amazes me that parents do not realize how lucky they are to have a principal who is not afraid to stand up to them and do what is necessary to run a good school. All those tests that are given at the school are required by the district not the principal.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 2 2006-06-04 “Teachers are great, but I don't agree with the way children are divided into classrooms. The highest performing children are in one class. The next level is the 'mixed' class, then the 'regular' class. Pray you child is not placed in the regular class. The school principal only cares about the schools state test scores, not about each individual child's quality education.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-05-23 “WHES is a great school for academics. The principal is a little harsh when it comes to the parents, but she keeps the school running well and makes it a very safe environment for the kids. There is a private-school atmosphere and it is very academic but could use more in the way of art, foreign language and music. (But couldn't all public schools?) Overall, it's one of the best public schools in the LA area.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-05-12 “The school is absolutely fantastic academically, but it lacks some warmth. I don't think this is unique to Woodland Hills as much as it is a product of public schools. My child loves the school and her friends. The school has a great parent group, and wonderful programs. If you are looking for a school with a strong emphasis on learning and excelling, this is the school for you.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-05-11 “This school really emphasizes academics, maybe a little too much. The principal has strong opinions and isn't afraid to voice them, even at the risk of alienating parents. The Woody's Club after school program sounds great, but full and hard to get in, so the only option is Youth Services after school.” Posted By: administrator Quality Score: 3 2006-05-11 “Not bad, if your focus is academics and little else.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2006-04-19 “The school is good. They emphasis on performance which is good.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2006-03-26 “While this school represents many strengths, it embraces students that fit a specific criteria and rejects those that do not. Being an SAS school with a highly reputed GATE program, it is expected to understand the needs and uniquenesses of gifted children. I see it failing these unique and challenging creatures.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 2 2006-01-11 “I moved my child here from another school b/c of the high scoring but I soon realized that is not a good way to judge the school you send your child too. You should look at the Principal and Teachers, and I learn quite quickly that the Principal is rude, non caring toward the child and treats the school like a boot camp for degenerates. I am very very unhappy with the Principal. They have no accountablity for the children and she could careless about your child.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2005-12-15 “The teachers that our kids have in this school is quite good. However it is no secret that this school is heavily focused on tests and scores. Weekly tests on math and spelling started in 1st grade. Some kids are not as good in handling the pressure and so turnover rate is high from yr to yr. But the hardest thing to take is the principal. She is unapproachable to say the least, and lacks the basic respect towards others. It was kind of funny to see how the Winter program was conducted. Those who wanted to leave early in the middle of the prgram got yelled at by the principal in front of the audience. I felt like I was back in high school my self.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2005-11-13 “A mixed bag. The prinicipal is singlemindedly devoted to maintaining highest test scoes. If you can get through school without crossing her path, there are some great academic opportunities and a very dedicated parent group. Then again, if you draw a bad teacher - and there are some - then there is little recourse. Then again, maybe you'll get lucky and get one of the phenomenal ones. As in all LAUSD schools, student-teacher ratios beyond third grade are unreasonable. If your child is not very self-structured and self-directed, it's easy to get lost, particulary if you draw one of the less competent, less organized teachers.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2005-11-06 “The principal is extremely tough on both the parents and the students not allowing excuses for average scores. Despite this, the parents know their children are getting the best academic preparation. See the results for yourself - we score higer than all the Calabasas schools!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2005-08-19 “WHES has been great for my son and challenging in many ways. The teacher's provide the personal care we needed. However, we had numerous incidents with the principle. If it weren't for the staff and parents, she would have left a terrible impression on most.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2009-08-26 “WHES rocks! Great students, great teachers, great principal, great office staff, great TA's, great attendance officer, great test scores, great everything.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-08-18 “We have been at WHES for a total of three years now, with two children. The faculty have been very helpful. The administration seem extremly open and involved. Overall, I feel the children get a great education and are in an incredible environment. LAUSD has its limits which we must deal with, but the involvement of the administration, teachers and parents combined make this a wonderful learning environment with many extras.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-08-18 “We have been at WHES for a total of three years now, with two children. The faculty have been very helpful. The administration seem extremly open and involved. Overall, I feel the children get a great education and are in an incredible environment. LAUSD has its limits which we must deal with, but the involvement of the administration, teachers and parents combined make this a wonderful learning environment with many extras.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-08-18 “We have been at WHES for a total of three years now, with two children. The faculty have been very helpful. The administration seem extremly open and involved. Overall, I feel the children get a great education and are in an incredible environment. LAUSD has its limits which we must deal with, but the involvement of the administration, teachers and parents combined make this a wonderful learning environment with many extras.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2009-08-15 “When the STAR test scores and the API ranking comes out this month, I KNOW Woodland Hills will ROCK this world in high achievement. My 4th grade son learned so much in science last year that he was smarter than any other kid in any other school, including tony private schools. The teachers, aides, parents, and principal at WHES rock! Compare the test scores of WHES to any other school in the state and you'll see it too.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2009-05-25 “Everyone talks about the leadership changing and the teachers being unhappy; I know, being a teacher myself at this school for over ten years, that you cannot please everyone all the time. There were complaints aplenty with the last administration and I am not surprised to see the complaints listed here. There are people that no matter what you do or what you say are determined to be negative. I know that a majority of the teachers that I speak with, have little or no problem with the administration. I am not sure what the last poster means regarding 'instructional leadership'; what exactly do they feel is lacking instructionally? Our principal goes out on a limb to get our school what it needs, financially and instructionally. In these tough economic times that is quite a feat.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-05-23 “I have been involved with several schools with my 4 kids over the past several years, and WHES is the most incredible. The principal personally greets the families in the morning starting on the corner at the entrance to the school; and in the afternoon he is there to say so long. The vice-principal is so caring about the special education students and it shows--those kids do better than any other school around--check out the data. What a wonderful school to be involved with during the first 6 years of schools.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2005-07-24 “My child is very gifted. Unfortunately even though the scores at this school are very high, we placed our child in private school. This school is not for any child or parent who is sensitive as the school is run in a military fashion. Most students/families are on permit and therefore would not dare speak up against the harsh and belittling environmnet.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2005-05-29 “I have 2 kids that have graduated Woodland Hills Elementary and one more going through. It is a fabulous school. They have a program for gifted children which is excellent. The school is very academic with very caring teachers. They really get to know your child and their needs. There is so much parental involvement that the kids get everything they need. There are a lot of fundraisers throughout the school year which enables us to have music, art, P.E. and computer programs for the kids.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2005-04-18 “The quality of the academic programs are of the highest calibre.There is a continuous and far reaching level of parent involvement. This is a safe, nurturing school with a high level of expected and achieved academic achievment.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2005-03-31 “My ADHD child has been attending WHES for the past 2 years. I can't describe how supportive, helpful and kind the teachers and the principal has been. This is an amazing school.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2005-03-29 “Teachers and parents are very involved. Leadership is tough.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2005-01-14 “Good... fine for young children.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2004-11-23 “WHES is a wonderful school. There is an amazing amount of parent participation. The staff and faculty are very dedicated. The children are in a safe and nurturing environment. I would recommentd WHES highly to anyone who is looking for a quality educational experience for their young child.” Posted By: former student Quality Score: decline 2004-09-28 “I ATTENTED THIS SCHOOL BACK IN THE 1970'S AND IT WAS GREAT THEN AND EVEN GREATER NOW. THEY TAKE PRIDE IN THEIR SCHOOL AND STUDENTS AND IT SHOWS!!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2004-05-04 “WHES is a very 'academic' school. I have had mostly good experiences with the teachers. Your child will be academically challenged at this school. The down side is that many parents do not feel free to voice their opinions to the teachers or principal, because they feel that their child's school experience might be jeapordized. Unfortunately, this has affected parent participation in the school. I believe the solution to this problem is to assure parents that their input is valued and that their child will not be adversely affected if they are verbal about issues that they would like to see improved. Then you would see an increase in attendance at PATT meetings.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2004-04-18 “WHES is overall a great public school with wonderful teachers and strong parent participation. Unfortunately the principal puts too much stress on standardized test scores and the teachers are forced to test the students almost on a daily basis. Gifted students get bored with the repetition and are not properly challenged. Students of all levels would benefit tremendously if the school would institute a more 'experiential' learning environment (i.e. field trips, hands on science experiments etc...) The test scores would still be outstanding and the students would actually retain what they are learning and have a greater love for learning. The school also needs more music programs and the library should have an open door policy for students during recess, lunch and after school. The library seems to be used more often for parent meetings then for the children.” Posted By: teacher Quality Score: 5 2009-05-23 “WHES is a fabulous school. We have an innovative and thinking-out-of-the-box principal that secured grants to keep the school 'powered' with greatness (and funding) for the 2009/10. This is a great accomplishment in a year when most nearby schools are taking the budget cuts laying down. The teachers are wonderful & nurturing. What a great place!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2009-05-23 “If this were eBay, I'd say this schools is an A++++++++++++++++++ and the teachers and administrators are an A+++++++++++++ and the parents are an A+++++++++++++++. Thank you WHES! A+” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-02-23 “In my first year as a parent here I found that the teachers and principal do not take my concerns seriously enough. I feel that they have a general attitude that they will do whatever they want. They have not shown me that they welcome an open dialogue between staff and teachers. Although they will always give me the time I need to voice my concerns, I have been given minimal feedback and action to resolve issues. Most parents are afraid to speak up because they do not want it to effect their child adversely in the classroom. I wish the parents would realize that this is OUR CHILDRENS' school, not the teachers! We need to stand up for our children and let the teachers and administration know what our children need!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2009-02-03 “This is truly a fantastic school where all adults care about children. No school can solve every problem since children go to school with many needs and challenges. It's up to us parents to work with our teachers to help our kids, rather than blame them. The WHES community is the greatest and can only get better if we work together and support each other. Who could ask for a better group of teachers and kids? Go tigers!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-01-30 “I unfortunately agree with the last post. The administration has the attitude that they will do whatever they want. Parents used to not be afraid to speak up. What's happened? Your input is important and the local district will want to hear your concerns. Speak up if you have an issue or don't complain when things aren't right.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2009-01-30 “I don't doubt that this teacher who posted believes what she says about the school. However, each parent has a right to reflect on their own experiences with the school. I'm not speaking for anyone else. I'm just speaking from my own experiences. I don't understand the defensive attitude of this particular teacher but that certainly represents the attitude I have faced when dealing with people at this school. I have not been to the local district. I am trying to handle our issues through the proper channels. I have talke to the school numerous times. I'm not a parent that just sits quietly by and then uses a forum like this to complain. I just wanted to post that this school isn't necessarily the best fit for all students.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2008-12-02 “I am very happy with the way this school is being run. As a parent what more could I ask for than the personal attention of every staff member my child interacts with. From the exceptional custodian, insightful Admin. team, dedicated Teachers and wildly generous volunteers WHES reaches out to all students. I see it every time I am on campus: personal greetings from Teachers to students they have never even had in class, friendly comments by Admin. and Volunteers to students of all ages. It is a real community. I am curious as to how the former SAS curriculum is being integrated into the student population. We have our Teacher conference this week and that is the top question I have for our Teacher, other than what else can I do to help him continue the excellent instruction I feel our child is receiving.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-11-30 “This wonderful school is not just for those identified highly gifted. All the children perform at high levels simply because they are stimulated by teachers that can take the regular curriculumn and bring it to life. It is not overly academic. Instead it is one of the few schools that does give a well rounded and balanced education including hands-on learning, the arts and sports. And this happens at a neighborhood school with neighborhood kids, unlike Balboa Magnet and Wonderland Magnet that attract kids from all over the city. Way to go WHES!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-11-27 “During this holiday time, I am thankful for the loving and nuturing teachers, staff, and administrators. The school is a fabulous place where students are safe and high quality learning is fun. I am also thankful that everyone is treated fairly--rich or poor parents and students and students of color--everyone is the same and everyone excels. WHES has a great parent group and president that truly cares about the students.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-11-27 “My twin sons were accepted to private school, but we opted to finish out WHES. It is a 10 on any scale!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-11-27 “I have to say, I am blown away with how much my son has learned in the first few weeks at Woodland Hills Elementary School. Parents, Administrators, and Teachers all work together as a team and ensure that the children are well taken care of. We are very proud to be joining the 'WOODY'S TIGER FAMILY!'” Posted By: parent Quality Score: decline 2008-11-02 “I had a problem with the administration too. They have a threatening attitude if you approach them. So, I went to the district and spoke to the Director of Instruction, Madelyne Coopersmith. She said that she would take care of it and did. That is what concerned parents should do. Parents cannot be bullied by the administration. You do have a voice and will be protected by the district if you seek their help. I agree that most of the teachers except those that are favored are very unhappy. What is happening to a wonderful school? Speak up and be heard. We are the clients and need to be respected.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2008-09-30 “Love the school! It's great both socially and academically. This school feels like a second family for its students. The kids have hand on experience with computers, art, PE, music, and cooking. The after-school enrichment is unbelieveably fantastic--I want to take classes there (like yoga, dramatic theater, creative writing, Hebrew, Spanish, sports, wow!) The kids are happy, excited, busy at any time of the day. My son is having a blast!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 3 2008-09-29 “Everybody thinks that because the scores went up this year that everything is fine but it isn't. The school is like a well oiled machine and runs itself because such wonderful systems were put in place by the previous administration. Yes, it appears to be the same but I totally agree that morale is on the decline. There is nobody at the helm to fight for the teachers and our students. The answer is always that the district wants it this way. If morale continues to fall, than the school climate will definitely change. The wonderful teachers, aides, and other staff are still working hard but eventually that will change too. There is inequity at the school and favortism shown to certain teachers which is not OK. They all work hard. The front office is wonderful, as always, but I can even feel a difference there.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2003-11-17 “I've worked at the school for four years now as the computer teacher. I've seen some minor troubles and have witnessed displeasure by some parents, but after all is said and done, it's a remarkable school, from the principal, the office staff, the aids, the maintainence crew, to the incredible faculty and my personal favorite, the kids. - Judy Guardia” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2003-11-11 “Woodland Hills Elementary has been wonderful for our daughter. The teachers are extremely professional and take a personal interest in every child. The school environment is exciting, clean, safe and appealing. It has a private school feel. I love that projects are mostly done in school and not parent made. So many wonderful programs are provided. Bravo!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2003-10-15 “I didn't truly appreciate the value of WHES until we moved to another district. You cannot beat the commitment of the Principal, teachers, and parents toward providing students with a quality, academically well-rounded education. We miss the school and all of the staff terribly!” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 4 2003-09-15 “WHES has incredible teachers and after school programs! Although there are many negative incidents with office personnel attitudes, my kid enjoyed her teachers, classmates and curricula.” Posted By: parent Quality Score: 5 2003-08-26 “Woodland Hills Elementary is a great school! The principal is fantastic and so are all of the staff! Both of our kids are challenged academically and they love being at school!”