Independent Elementary School

21201 Independent Sch Rd.

School District

Castro Valley Unified
Grade

K-5
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:21
Type

public

School Map for Castro Valley Unified School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on July 13, 2023

Very happy with independent. Our experience has been wonderful. They are working to improve special ed support but our experience with teachers in K-2nd have been great
Submitted by parent on January 13, 2023

My son goes to this school for K. He is making a huge progress in every aspect. very experienced teachers and Principle is humble and helpful. The only down side is the visitor parking not available at both up and down parking areas. add more visitor parking please.
Submitted by parent on December 04, 2021

I've had two kids at this school. The principal is fantastic. The staff is pretty good. Almost all of the teachers are outstanding, with a couple of really bad ones being the exception. My kids are well supported and happy. Issues are resolved quickly and fairly. No complaints.
Submitted by parent on August 10, 2018

Overall it was good. but not great. I hope there have been improvements made since my children have been there. The now common core Math have given disappointing test results compared to my older child. Some upper grade teachers have emphasized Writing and/or Science at the cost of Math instruction.
Submitted by parent on December 02, 2017

New principal changed the school office, now they are nice and warm heart!
Submitted by parent on May 11, 2017

The class education teaches kids well. The administration interacts with parents poorly.
Submitted by parent on December 30, 2015

So many issues with this school. From the indifferent staff and principal, to the complete lack of security or caring for your child's safety (mine was left alone to wait for me after school on her own in the parking lot), the 3 story staircase that all the little ones have to walk up every morning (God forbid one of them fall down and domino all the others). I would like think the teachers are caring. Unfortunately, my child did not get one of those. Please consider a different school for your child. I left an honest review on Greatschools and it was deleted. Nothing defamatory in it, and did not name names. Are you going to delete this one too, GS???
Submitted by student on July 19, 2015

Fantastic leadership and staff, high parent involvement, excellent PTA, top quality after school program (Adventure Time). There does appear to be an emerging issue related to higher needs kids coming in from outside the area. These kids are placing extra demands on the teachers, straining their ability to maintain the existing high standards.
Submitted by parent on July 17, 2014

Independent is an excellent school with wonderful principal, caring teachers and outstanding PTA. I'm so happy that I chose this school for my daughter.
Submitted by parent on August 10, 2010

Having been at private schools previously, it was an easy transition for my children to acclimate to Independent Elementary last year. The teachers I've had the honor to work with in my children's education, the other families we've met, and the after school program associated with the school are all of the highest quality. It is a wonderful community of teachers and families that provides a well rounded environment for the children to grow and mature in. Definitely didn't expect to find this level of quality and sense of community in a public school. Such a happy surprise!
Submitted by parent on May 11, 2010

The community is amazing at Independent elementary. The staff have always made us feel as though we are truly, all one big family. The teachers genuinely care about their students and the families of their students. The teachers guide the children through their academic adventures with love, intellect and compassion. I love the school so much that I am now earning my teaching credential and doing my field work at Independent. This school cares about all of us, they deserve to be appreciated.
Submitted by other on February 20, 2010

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Submitted by other on December 18, 2008

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Submitted by parent on April 10, 2008

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