St. Mark's Lutheran Elementary School

2323 Las Lomitas Drive

Hacienda Heights, CA 91745

24 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-8
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on June 11, 2023

There is no Place like SML! We love the loving environment . Parents support each other. Kids support each other. The students are kind, thoughtful , and compassionate. Academics are a priority while there are still so many opportunities for fun. I have never seen an elementary school with so much opportunity to try something new. They have sports teams, robotics, walking club, Pod cast, Drama, cooking class, chess club, the list goes on and on. You can find what works for the individual student. This is our 13th year as an SML family. Our oldest daughter is in her Senior Year of High school. She was very prepared for High school. She was surprised how her preparation surpassed so many of her peers she is in private school. She was ahead of many classmates in her Math skills and writing ability. Your child will thrive at SML and will never want to leave. This is our last year and we will go kicking and screaming..
Submitted by parent on April 11, 2023

With very few exceptions, our experiences at St. Marks Lutheran School over the past seven years have been positive ones. We currently have one son in the eighth grade attending SML as well as another son who graduated SML in 2020 and is currently attending Troy High School. Overall, each of our son's time there has been socially and academically fulfilling. This also includes the extracurricular school activities that are offered. The tuition is fair for the level of education and attention receives.The entire working staff, including teachers, office and support staff are friendly and good at what they do. They often will go the extra mile to insure that the students as well as the parents, are satisfied and get the best overall experience possible. As a busy parent, this is very appreciated.I suppose like all schools, SML can be criticized by a small percentage of what they do or don't do. However, a good litmus test for how we rate this school is to simply ask, "would you enroll your children at SML if you had a chance to start their school careers over again. The simple answer is, "yes, we would gladly enroll them at SML again. We know that we made the correct decision for our two sons." It's a very good school.
Submitted by parent on March 22, 2023

A Comprehensive Education at St. Marks Lutheran School: A Father's PerspectiveAs a father of a 3rd and 5th grader who have attended St. Marks Lutheran School since the age of 2.5 and a proud product of public schools, I am eager to share my positive experience with this esteemed institution. St. Marks offers an exceptional education that addresses essential aspects of child development.1Accreditation: St. Marks holds accreditation, ensuring educational excellence.2Academics: The curriculum is robust, encompassing core subjects and diverse electives.3Class sizes: Small student-to-teacher ratios allow for individualized attention and tailored learning experiences.4Teachers: Skilled, credentialed educators committed to teaching and engaging students.5Social-emotional development: Programs that emphasize the growth of social competencies and emotional intelligence.6Extracurriculars: An array of clubs, sports, and after-school programs to foster well-roundedness.7Safe environment: A priority on student safety and fostering a supportive, positive community.8Parent involvement: Ample opportunities for parents to actively engage in their child's education.9College and career preparation: Proactive guidance for future academic and professional success.10Diversity and inclusivity: A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diverse backgrounds.11Facilities and resources: Cutting-edge facilities and access to the latest learning resources.I would also like to acknowledge the exceptional support from the preschool director, Lori, as well as both the current and previous principals, Mrs. Clark and Mrs. Gerardo. Their involvement and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards and supportive environment at St. Marks Lutheran School.St. Marks delivers a comprehensive education that has significantly contributed to my children's development since their early years. I wholeheartedly recommend this school to parents seeking a top-tier educational experience for their children.-Frausto
Submitted by parent on September 19, 2022

As someone who grew up in Hacienda Heights and attending the Public School System I never imagined my child would attend a Private school. In a bind when my daughter was 4 I had to find a daycare for her. I enrolled her at St. Mark's as it is the closest from home. I went ahead and enrolled her in a public school for Kindergarten. When she was bullied and not protected at our local elementary school (for 3 months) I called St. Mark's to see what I had to do to bring her back to her safe place. They worked with me as I am a single parent with only one income. I didn't think I could afford it, but she is down to her last 2 years and it has been affordable and great! I work for the Public School system and I can tell you first hand that St. Mark's is approximately 1 1/2 years ahead in the curriculum and definitely a safe place for your kids in this world. The only thing this school needs is a/c in the gym....other than that it is a great place to send your kids.
Submitted by parent on October 01, 2014

I don't have enough space to give the school the praise they deserve!!!they don't just teach and care for our children, they love and teach my husband and I too! I have two kids currently attending St.Marks and we LOVE it!! It's home away from home....every teacher has interaction with my family and they're good people. My daughter is 2 and just started in August, she's been there for about 5 weeks now and she's singing songs she just learned, reciting her abc's in its entirety, counting to 13 on her own, recognizing letters and gaining the confidence to be successful! My son has been attending since he was 3 and he has been learning exceptional work! He's now 4 and can write words on his own, solve beginning math equations and think with complete logic and reason. I love St.Marks, they are our growing and extended family and I look forward to everything they have to share with us!!!
Submitted by parent on March 16, 2014

My son transferred from a local private elementary school. We were a bit concerned with him being able to 'catch up' on his math skills. The transition went so much better than we could have imagined. He is doing great. His coursework is challenging and fun and the first week we brought him to school, he didn't want to leave! He has made great friends and always has some lesson he's learned in school to tell us about at home. I highly recommend St. Mark's Lutheran to anyone seeking quality education for their children.
Submitted by parent on February 17, 2014

St. Mark's school has been the absolute best choice for my children. My daughter graduated two years ago and my son is currently in 7th grade. The philosophy of the school focuses not only on strong academics, but development of character as well. The faculty are passionate and dedicated. My daughter has excelled in high school as a result of the excellent foundation provided at St. Mark's. St. Mark's provides opportunities in sports, leadership, and drama that my children have participated in with very positive results. The school sets high expectations in all areas for students and provides the support they need to meet or exceed those expectations.
Submitted by parent on February 14, 2014

We chose to move our son to St. Marks for 6th Grade due to the school s reputation for solid academics and strong sense of community, and we could not be more pleased with our decision. Middle School can be a tough transition for a new student, but the teachers and students have gone out of their way to make our son feel welcome. We have found the core classes and extra curricular activities to be first rate. Our son has been challenged, but not overwhelmed. The teachers really seem to enjoy what they do, and do an excellent job of providing feedback through materials that are sent home and the school s new website. Having come from the public school system, we have quickly realized the advantages that St. Marks offers in terms of the classroom environment, technology and campus facilities.
Submitted by parent on February 12, 2014

this is our 6th year at St. Marks, we have three children and they love the place. it is a great environment. there are strong academics, good school spirit, strong arts and sports programs. the families are very similar middle and upper middle class families striving to help the kids get ahead. the kids seem to inherently challenge each other. We appreciate the spiritual component with Scripture memory, religion classes, and weekly chapel service. It's up to me as a parent to follow this up. The theatre program in amazing. Very good use of technology and media. speaking to many parents of graduates, the kids seem to do very well in high school and college. there is definitely value but it may not be for everyone. we could improve by having more evaluation/feedback, but quality improvement does take place annually.
Submitted by parent on February 06, 2014

I can not say enough wonderful things about St. Mark's School (SMS)! My daughter transferred in as a 2nd grader from the Catholic school that suggested my kindergarten-age son be held back a year. I just did not think that that was the best thing for my son so I had him tested at SMS where he was welcomed into kindergarten. Both children have thrived in all ways & I owe it all to SMS. The teachers have demonstrated that they really do care about the kids success. Our Principal, who I have said over and over again, is the smartest woman I've ever met, deserves an honorable degree in Child Psychology. She knows these kids inside/out. She can be trusted to make the best decisions for each & every child no matter of their forming character. The school is truly a nurturing environment. My daughter, now in public high school, has soared to the top of her class thanks in part to the foundation provided at SMS. I feel so blessed that my children attended SMS & we owe a lot of their success to the educational & spiritual foundation they received at St. Mark's School.
Submitted by parent on January 31, 2014

Students, staff, and parents are a true family. Have two children attending since preschool and cannot say enough good things. No school is perfect, but this is as close as you will get. Academics are strong and kids love going to school everyday. Wonderful educational environment. Will hate to leave !
Submitted by parent on January 31, 2014

St. Mark's is an exceptional school that offers a challenging curriculum in a nurturing environment where kids are allowed to be kids. My twin sons have been students at St. Mark's for almost eight years now. They have enjoyed all aspects of the school and have already talked about missing it when they graduate this year. Not only have they been given a solid academic foundation, but they have also been provided with opportunities to follow their outside interests through programs such as Reading Counts, robotics, chess, Math Counts, writing contests and spelling bees as well as sports such as flag football and basketball. They look forward to attending school, whether it's because of donuts in Goal Setting, the weekly Pod-cast or re-enacting the "Battle of Bunker Hill" with sponges! The dedicated teachers, administrators and staff provide a positive learning environment with plenty of enriching activities and projects. Woven into the fabric of the school is a strong sense of support and community among the families that attend St. Mark's. Take a tour. Meet the people. Like me, you will look back and be happy that you chose such a wonderful place to educate your children!
Submitted by parent on January 28, 2014

St. Mark s has provided our daughter with an excellent academic education and a great social environment. She is receiving all the benefits and advantages of the school s outstanding staff and administration. Students are encouraged to become involved in the many extracurricular sports and social events that help to make a student well rounded, making St. Mark s more than just a school. Our daughter truly enjoys her classes and the many friends she has at school. St. Mark s is a great place for children to learn and grow.
Submitted by parent on January 28, 2014

We brought our daughter to St. Mark's at the beginning of fifth grade. We were a bit nervous as St. Mark's was much bigger than our previous school. From the minute we walked on campus we felt so welcomed by the principal, staff and families. Within a few weeks we felt as if we had been there since kindergarten. There is so much warmth among the families and staff. The curriculum is advanced, which we believe is a plus. Our daughter entered a Lutheran high school known for being advanced in their curriculum and she is doing very well. We attribute this to the foundation, preparation and fostering that St. Mark's provides for their students. Our only regret is that we didn't enroll our daughter back in kindergarten. After our daughter's first day of high school she insisted that we take her to St. Mark's to visit the principal and her teachers. When we arrived most all of her 8th grade graduating class was on campus to do the same thing. I consider that an amazing testimony in itself. Thank you St. Mark's Lutheran School,
Submitted by parent on January 28, 2014

This school is a true neighborhood treasure. I wish I would have known about it sooner. The thought of switching schools was very daunting at first. However, it was the best move we ever made. We've been there for a little more than one year. My son loves it at St. Mark's. It is intellectually challenging for him in ways which his previous school simply was not. At his former school, there was a strong focus on compliance rather than fostering intelligence and critical thinking skills. The class sizes at St. Mark's are consistent with today's class size research. The curriculum is also about one year ahead of public school standards, which is great for "gifted" children. The principal is an awesome lady and so is the curriculum director. All in all we feel extremely welcomed at St. Mark's and are so happy that we finally found the right school for our family! Love it!!! Love it!!!
Submitted by other on October 06, 2013

As a student I didn't like this school at all. I couldn't wait to move schools. The teachers didn't help prepare me for regular schooling or highschool. For example, if you received a low test score you could easily go them for lunch and retake it till you got an A. Also the study guides were a replica of the tests which didn't help me learn how to study on my own. They were very easy academics. Not only was the academics a poor system the school was very expensive. Also there was a major bullying issue that was never addressed. I don't suggest you send your child there if she/ he is not societies' definition of "cool"
Submitted by other on August 23, 2013

This school is so amazing ! I graduated from it a year ago and I have to say, it is so amazing ! I learned so much here that I wouldn't learn from public schools. I go to a public high school now & the kids there are so dumb compared to this school, even Thoe they may be strict in their teaching, they are for a fact , THE BEST school in the state, I've been examining other public and private schools and nothing compares to st marks, i love this school. I wish I can attend st marks again and take it less for granted, I recommend this school for any parents that are looking for a school for their child. And I would know about this school because I am a graduate
Submitted by parent on June 25, 2013

As a parent of two graduates who started as kindergartners, I can honestly say that St. Mark s has done an exemplary job preparing them for high school with a well-rounded challenging academic curriculum. My oldest attends a highly competitive high school and will graduate at the top of his class. On several occasions he noted that certain academic subjects were easier due to the training he received at St. Mark s. My younger son graduated from St. Mark s this year and will be starting high school with all honor classes. St. Mark s offered a nurturing environment with plenty of opportunities to explore their areas of interest. The dedicated teachers and staff are very involved with the students beyond the classroom providing students with opportunities in a variety of sports and other activities such as Mathcounts, Drama, Podcast, and Band. The school also expands the learning experience with a variety of field trips including visits to Sacramento, El Camino Pines, Catalina, and the East Coast. Through this school we developed a sense of community where my children have made life-long friends, and as parents, we have too. St Mark s was definitely the right choice for my family.
Submitted by parent on June 15, 2013

St. Marks Lutheran is a well rounded school that offers programs, clubs and sports that most schools cannot or do not. I am in education in the area and I can vouch that all public K-8 schools and most private schools do not offer the comprehensive educational experience that St. Marks does. Is everything perfect everytime? Of course not but what is awesome is the school listens and addresses issues head on from the leadership in the staff from bottom to top address it. I read some of the negative reviews and I would say yes can there be busy bodies as parents but that is everywhere. I have worked in schools for 2 decades and they are everywhere. I am a parent who works many hours and I am not on the campus involved much and yet when I have brought a concern it has been handled immediately.The fundraising is minmal for what kids receive.The work ethic of the administration is exceptional. It is not uncommon to see Ms. Clarks and Mrs. Evangelista at work by 5:45am and you will still see them supporting everything that is happening at the school which is often 7 days a week morning, noon and night. If only there was more characters remaining to tell you more! Just a great school!
Submitted by parent on June 06, 2013

Our son attended St. Mark's school for 9 years and we have only positive things to say about the school, the teachers and the administration. Though his father and I would love to take all the credit for the bright, caring young man our son has become, we cannot do so in good conscience. St. Mark's teachers are a very caring group and continue to nurture their students to become the best they can be - not just as students - but as a bigger part of our community. We feel after his nine years at St. Mark's, our son has a strong foundation to be successful in high school, college, and life in general. We highly recommend this school to all!