Wonderful smallish school with a loving yet academic environment. A place to grow with strong values, clear academic markers and great feedback from teachers. Our family is grateful to have this special little school in our local community. That said, I would commute to have my child here.Got very lucky living in Corralitos.
Submitted by parent on October 27, 2023
Currently I have three kids at Salesians, we started at the school last year and I cannot be more grateful for having found this beautiful place! The Sisters, teachers and administrators have created a home away from home for the kids to feel comfortable and loved as a foundation for learning. My kids love going to school and are sad if they are sick and miss a day. They like the uniforms and being able to roll out bed without thinking about what they are going to wear. I like that they aren’t trying to wear their pajama pants to school. The academics have been great, meeting my children at a level that challenges them enhanced with hands on and experiential learning. Through field trips, class experiments, group projects, they pique their curiosity and make learning fun. We are thankful for the integration of faith and the Catholic religion. Not only teaching the kids values like kindness and charity, but setting examples for the values as well. There always seems to be an activity happening to support a local food bank or shelter or organization that helps people in need. Salesians is more than a school it is a community, parents get involved and together all are encouraged to feel like family. It is a bit of commute for us, but the drive out to this school in the trees is well worth it. (The carpool is super helpful too)
Submitted by other on April 08, 2022
I feel that this school changed my whole perspective on my religion in a bad way. I personally had a really bad experience and I feel many of the teachers forced their beliefs on the students. We had absolutely no freedom and I feel that it is really important to express yourself by coloring your hair, painting your nails, and wearing clothes that you want with a dress code, but we could not do that here. Yes, it’s easier with uniforms but at this school, they want every student to look the same and act the same. I felt like a robot because I had no freedom whatsoever. I was not allowed to wear any necklaces that are not religious or more than one bracelet or more than two rings. We could only wear one ring between both our hands! I really wanted to know what the big deal was about this but the answer was always "we are representing Salesian and what would others think of us?" I'm sure many would think it’s a great school because of how they make it look, but the reality is that they made and still make many students, including me, think that doing these things, expressing ourselves, would be going against our religion. We weren't allowed to sit with boys and were told that kids from the same grade should only play with each other. A student there was also discriminated against for her gender, being told she can’t do certain things. in conclusion, the education at this school is good, but the system itself isn't the best. If I had a choice to go back I would not. But then again, if you like the feel of being one and equal in the negative way, You're welcome to go to Salesian Elementary and jr high -Graduating class of Salesian elementary and Jr high
Submitted by parent on November 07, 2018
I'm so lucky to have found this school and village of like minded people to look over my children and call my family.
Submitted by teacher on May 19, 2018
I'm a former student at this school and the school gave me an awesome foundations heading into high school and eventually college.
Submitted by parent on October 18, 2017
The majority of the children graduating Salesian are going directly into AP classes in High School. Its an incredible experience, so loving, a close nit relationship for all that are part of the school. What a great foundation to start your children on in their early academic lives. Although its a catholic school, all are welcome.
Submitted by parent on May 29, 2017
This school used to be very good; however the principal (new) at this school is not prepared to lead a school in the 21st century. Families have left the school specifically because of how she interacts with parents. She tends to be rigid and out-of-touch with the realities of raising children. Some faculty are good, but many are hired simply because they are parents of current students, which leads to conflict of interest issues. The carpool restrictions are very difficult to deal with and frankly, there are other schools that offer better prepared teachers, more enhanced curriculum and a more inclusive, supportive environment. It seems likely that the school will be forced to close soon as there are not enough students enrolled to make it financially viable, so be careful if you are looking for a school that will be around for the entirety of your child's K-8th grade experience.
Submitted by other on August 13, 2016
My children are so nourished in this environment. They receive fantastic academics, are encouraged in their talents and are safe. I am so grateful to the school for helping support our family life by encouraging our students to be the best versions of themselves.
Submitted by parent on July 15, 2016
The combination of values, academics, and community feel makes Salesian a great school. The presence of the Sisters and aspirants has been one of the highlights for my children. We are able to know and communicate easily with all the teachers. There is truly zero tolerance for bullying, which has been very positive for my children. This is a great school!
Submitted by parent on July 15, 2016
My two daughters enjoy the results of applying the critical thinking skills they practiced at Salesian Elementary & Junior High School. Upon entry into a competitive High School, they both found entry into Advanced Placement classes and continue to excel. As parents, we greatly enjoy the school community and welcome new members. My missing fifth star is related to the overall size of the enrollment. The small, active classes are a joy, and the welcome & friendly & gorgeous campus is peaceful.
Submitted by other on July 15, 2016
The sisters, teaching staff and community are wonderful. This school is literally the equivalent of "the little engine that could." The administration has faced incredible challenges. And yet, with the support of the community, has managed to overcome them and remain the gem hidden in the Corrolitos hills. It shouldn't be hidden any longer. Please come and see the school; you will understand.
Submitted by parent on July 14, 2016
We love this school! What a blessing it has been in our lives. Strong academics, family-like community, a place rooted in faith, passionate about developing the children's morality and character. I wanted a community to help me raise my kids in the Catholic faith that would also make my husband, who is not Catholic, feel welcomed and comfortable. He and I both love the school and the family of friends we've found there. Academically, we are very happy as well. The small class sizes are a huge benefit. This is a place where a very smart, bold child can be embraced and challenged or where a timid child can be seen and lovingly encouraged. The gorgeous countryside setting is a wonderful bonus!
Submitted by parent on June 18, 2014
This school definitely has some serious issues. Weak academics and major bullying problems. The carpool requirement is worse than it seems. You may be prevented from picking up your own child even if he needs to go home sick. Very strange indeed! The Sisters are lovely, kind people, but do not seem to respond adequately to problems. They smile and say they care, but do nothing. I feel sorry for them. I think they might not be equipped for modern schools' issues, although they have modern students with modern problems (profanity, sexual innuendo, using God's name in vain, bullying, are the problems du jour here). They definitely teach Catholic prayers and traditions, but it seems pointless to have these details and not address all the major issues. I would not recommend this school to other parents.
Submitted by parent on June 08, 2013
This school is UH-MAY-ZEENG! A beautiful campus up in the Corralitos hills overlooking a vineyard and the Pacific Ocean yonder. If it sounds magical, it is. Once you walk onto the campus, the love is palpable from the sisters, staff and parents. Small student/teacher ratio (avg 14:1), challenging curriculum, teachers work closely with the students, full student participation in school events/plays... just a great place to be. The principal is loving and hugs all students and parents, and families... there are campus pets: dogs and cats, and a chicken coop! Students are greeted by some Goldens wagging their tail and their greeting is returned with loving pats from the students. Sports, Art, Music all part of the curriculum. If you're even THINKING about this school for your child, don't give it another thought and just GO and check it out. You will not leave without wanting your child being part of something THIS special.
Submitted by parent on May 01, 2013
Salesian is a wonderful, caring, supportive environment which has allowed my child to develop a very solid sense of herself. Her academic experience has been excellent so far. We look forward to many more years at this school.
Submitted by parent on April 29, 2013
My school offers excellent academics, a loving and inspiring environment and an unwavering focus on developing independent, thoughtful and intelligent children. I have had no complaints and neither have my children. We have been there for seven years. It is definitely worth consideration!
Submitted by parent on April 24, 2013
I really feel this school is one of a kind. The children, teachers, and parents are all so caring and supportive of each other. However, I believe the teacher quality could be improved. Some are wonderful but some are not as good. I do not feel my children are pushed to their full capabilities and they receive too much busy work. If the teachers could all be more creative and energetic with the curriculum, it would be perfect
Submitted by parent on April 22, 2013
I feel very blessed that my kids had the opportunity to attend Salesian. Such a great school. Academically challenging enough to keep my kids busy..You will find that the kids are so well rounded and friendly with each other..I think it's one of the greatest investments we've done for our kids. Both well prepared for high school level work.
Submitted by parent on April 22, 2013
Salesian Sisters Corralitos CA, I am very glad that both of my boys have had the opportunity to attend Salesian. Great Catholic School and the instructors are excellent.
Submitted by parent on April 22, 2013
Beautiful campus. Close family environment. Great place for kids to grow and learn. Lots of current parents are former students.