Laurence School

13639 VICTORY BLVD

Los Angeles, CA 91401

38 Reviews

School District
Grade

K-6
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on August 28, 2024

Laurence School is a true gem that lives up to its promise of nurturing the total child. From the moment we stepped onto campus, it was clear that this institution is an open book, transparently sharing its philosophy and practices with families. The curriculum goes beyond academics, focusing on social-emotional growth, creativity, and character development. We've been consistently impressed the how well the teachers understand and support our child's individual needs. At our first parent-teacher conference we were so deeply moved by how well our daughter’s teachers truly knew and saw her.We were particularly impressed with the thoughtful kindergarten onboarding process (including summer camp), which made the transition into school life both smooth and exciting. This attention to detail and care for new students exemplifies the Laurence approach, which sets a positive tone for the years ahead. Laurence has such an incredible community of faculty and families-we are delighted to be a part of it!
Submitted by parent on June 09, 2024

Our family was thoroughly impressed by our first year at Laurence School. The philosophy of the “total child”, upon which the school is based, is intricately woven into the tiniest of everyday details. Our kindergarten daughter was presented with engaging classroom work, invited to participate in cross-grade extra-curriculars and given the opportunity to speak publicly, including a speech to the full student body. All of this while being reminded that who she is as a person is special and important. The faculty is made up of remarkable educators who match the environment so well.
Submitted by parent on March 05, 2024

I can’t say enough good things about about Laurence. I talk to people all the time about our experiences and I figured it was easier to just leave a review and make it official :) I’m a current parent (3rd grade) and have a graduate now in middle school. The best thing about Laurence is that it really walks the walk. A holistic approach to traditional academics and character education run by people who care deeply about what they do and the integrity of the school. Everything at Laurence is for K-6 kids, it’s this little oasis in the middle of the valley where they can learn and play and feel independent but also safe and loved. The teachers are so dedicated and caring and communicate well. Small groups for reading and math make it so regardless of what their developmental level is, they always feel engaged and not like the classes are moving too fast or too slow. Everyone says the middle school admission process is scary, but we felt well prepared and supported throughout, my son is now thriving at his ideal school and was more than prepared academically and socially to navigate his new experience. The admission process also gave him essential skills in confidence and poise—my husband and I always joke we wish we had Laurence to teach us public speaking since kindergarten instead of having to learn in high school or even college and beyond. Community is very important at Laurence, there are so many opportunities to connect with other families and lots of school spirit too! There’s no such thing as a perfect school so of course there will always be harder days, but even when things were tough at school or at home, Laurence made us feel like we were in it together and provided really great guidance and support along the way. Our kids made lifelong friends and so have we. We will always be grateful to Laurence for giving them an excellent education but also a place they can always call home.
Submitted by parent on March 04, 2024

Our experience has been amazing at Laurence School for over a decade. Each of our three children has had the most beautiful journey at Laurence. From the dedication and passion of the teachers to the intuitive, caring leadership from the administration, Laurence has surpassed our expectations and truly been an ideal K-6 education. Not only were our kids exceptionally well prepared for middle school, their minds and spirits were nourished by Laurence's "Total Child" philosophy, helping them develop empathy, leadership, and communication skills along with a moral compass that helps them make good choices along the way. The Laurence community truly is a family; we have made lifelong friendships and had support from teachers, staff, and other parents in both good times and bad. Our only regret is that our Laurence years are coming to an end! We will always be grateful for how well Laurence nurtured three different kids and helped them develop a love for learning.
Submitted by parent on June 16, 2023

From the moment we set foot on the Laurence campus, we were captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and a strong sense of community and learning. After witnessing the remarkable growth and development of our child, I can confidently say that choosing Laurence School was a GREAT decision! Not only does the school strike a perfect balance between core subjects, creative expression, and character development, we appreciate the focus on individualized attention, including small math and reading groups, to ensure that every child receives personalized instruction and support.Laurence School also provides a plethora of enriching opportunities outside the traditional classroom setting. The range of extracurricular activities is impressive, including sports, arts, music, and clubs. These activities not only enhance the students' overall development but also foster teamwork, leadership skills, and a healthy work-life balance. Lastly, the sense of community at Laurence School is truly remarkable. The supportive and inclusive nature of the parents, teachers, and staff has created a warm and welcoming environment. The numerous school events and celebrations further strengthen the bond among students, parents, and the entire school community.I wholeheartedly recommend Laurence School as an exceptional institution that goes above and beyond in providing a well-rounded education!
Submitted by parent on April 22, 2020

Laurence is a very special school. From our first meeting with the leadership and teaching/admin team during the admissions process to every day over the past two years (our child is finishing 1st Grade), we have seen firsthand how this is a school community like no other. The teachers create incredible bonds with the students and balance a purposeful and disciplined approach to academics while making every class extremely engaging and fun. Our daughter has learned so much in all her subjects and has also blossomed in terms of confidence, independence while learning the important attributes of kindness, integrity and flexibility … adopting to new ways of problem solving. The teachers are endlessly generous with their time – whether helping a student at lunch, or meeting/speaking with parents outside of regular hours. They are very invested in our success. Most importantly, this is not a one type of student/family school. The families of Laurence are one of the most diverse, in all aspects, relative to other independent schools in LA, and the individual/small group instruction to the array of enrichment classes reflect that. It’s a powerful blend of a strong, authentic community that pays special attention to each child’s individual and holistic education, growth and development.
Submitted by other on April 08, 2020

Very poor and unfair admission selection. Don’t be humble showing your wealth. As long as your child does not have learning disability and you have connection to help you start donating before you apply, then you should not have any issues getting in.
Submitted by parent on October 14, 2019

Amazing program. Fantastic administration and impeccable communication both from teachers and faculty. So happy we chose this school.
Submitted by other on May 15, 2018

After spending a few years at Laurence now, I can definitely say that we chose the right school! There is a great emphasis on character education and community service, which is so important to helping our child develop good values. Additionally, the school is constantly updating its academic programs and technology classes. There is coding and robotics, as well as computers and iPads in the classroom, which helps the kids engage and become competent at using technology in many contexts. We have been so happy with the classroom teachers and specialists, and the administrators are very supportive also. We really appreciate the emphasis on educating kids in a balanced way, which gives our child an opportunity to explore the arts and sports, as well as develop a strong academic foundation. We recommend Laurence wholeheartedly.
Submitted by parent on May 12, 2018

Great school if you have money. That seems to be all the Head of School cares about. Raising tuition to the max. Keeping up with the Jones’s on the Westside. Keeping kids in school who should be expelled because their parents make large donations. Playing favorites with big donors for middle school applications and recommendations. Poor middle school counseling. Not the School Marvin Jacobson founded and ran with integrity. Now just another wanna be in a terrible location.
Submitted by parent on January 19, 2018

If you want your kid to thoroughly enjoy school, learn at a very high level, play sports in an inclusive way, learn to be kind, be very well prepared and get into a top middle school, then apply to Laurence and hope you get in. This year there are 600 applications for about 45 spots. It has turned into, hands down, the best elementary school in Southern California and probably one of, if not the best, in the state. Highly recommended.
Submitted by parent on January 04, 2018

I just want to express how wonderful the elementary experience is at Laurence. With so many schools out there that offer a K-12 program, it's so great that all Laurence's resources are focused on K-6. The extracurricular opportunities begin early- like orchestra, athletics, and performing arts - my kids are thriving because they get so many extras at such a young age. There is an after-school program that is amazing - it lets my kids stay right on campus to get top notch dance, arts, science classes... the sports program is awesome too with teams at every level. There's even a chess club that is really popular amongst the kids - a great thing to learn at such a young age. The leadership opportunities for students start young, too - the student council starts in 3rd grade. This has been great to help my kids develop confidence and public speaking skills. The school is truly dedicated to building a strong elementary foundation for the students and we are seeing it first hand.
Submitted by parent on September 04, 2017

Laurence school is unlike any other. As a parent of two young boys, I could not be happier with the quality of education they are receiving. This is an innovative school with a wonder curriculum that inspires kids to nurture their passions, be the best students they can be and teach children the importance of kindness and empathy. I am extremely happy with their experience. The head of school, Laurie Wolke, is a top educator and innovator. She listens to parents and incorporates an open door policy. You know that she knows your kid, she sees your kid and loves your kid. Always grateful.
Submitted by parent on April 23, 2017

Any parent looking at reviews of Laurence before applying is trying to do their homework. I grew up in Los Angeles and had not heard of Laurence before we began the formal process of looking. And so of course I read these reviews to try to validate what I was experiencing with my own eyes during the process. For all the parents doing the same, this review is for you. Laurence is a diamond in the rough, and if you are lucky enough to have found it and relied on your own intuition to continue doing research, please take a moment to congratulate yourself. This school is the real deal. And based on real data from the inside I can verify that parents choose it regularly over much better known historically "prestige" names in the LA community such as Curtis and JTD. After having personally done diligence on a dozen schools and seen parents over the years who have done the same, I can say with certainty that this school offers a rigorous academic environment beyond compare that carries with it a unique consideration and respect for the individuality of every child and family. This is a place where parents look past the exterior environment of the physical neighborhood to concentrate on the literal and figurative inside of the school. It's a metaphor for the kinds of parents and families who apply and attend, because it is those parents who concern themselves not with outward appearances but, rather, what values and education (character and academic) are being provided to the kids. There are few private schools you will find in LA that have as many approachable and down to earth parents. The administration fights every single day to make Laurence a better school, and as such it is no surprise that it has very silently emerged as one of the preeminent LA school. If you are relying on a very stale assessment in Beyond the Brochure, don't. They clearly need to revisit. In some ways, the secret is already out. The LA community is flocking to the school in droves. What drives the head of school to success (in my opinion) is that her parents founded the school. And as such, she works out of a sense of legacy. That is a powerful motivator. One you won't find from someone taking a salary to do a job. If you are having any doubts, as one parent to another let me tell you that Laurence will not let you down. If you get in, be grateful. It's as good as it gets. Best of luck!
Submitted by other on March 23, 2016

Our child is graduating Laurence this year after 7 incredible years. Laurie Wolke, the Head of School, has championed our child from the beginning and ultimately held our hand throughout the entire (overwhelming) middle school process. It has been an exceptional experience and we are eternally grateful.
Submitted by parent on March 19, 2016

Hands down the best elementary in Los Angeles. It provides the perfect combination of a strong and challenging curriculum delivered at the pace of learning that suits your child. The teachers and admin are extremely dedicated to the success of your child no matter what their abilities. Wonderful extra curricular program that includes music, drama,dance,community service,advanced technology and thats just part of the regular school day. They have a strong code of personal ethics and high moral standards. The admin are continually striving to make the school better topped by an impressive matriculation to the finest middle schools in Los Angeles. There is a wonderful parent body of smart and down to earth people. We thank our lucky stars to have been part of this wonderful school.
Submitted by parent on September 01, 2015

Laurence is the most amazing school EVER. I cannot image dropping off my children at any other school. The administration means what they say and they DO what they say. They include the parents every step of the way and go out of their way to create a sense of community. They do everything to keep our children age and developmentally appropriate. Every time I have reached out to a teacher or an administrator I have received an immediate response to any of my questions or concerns. They provide a cutting edge education and their focus on character development and raising genuine good people is a top priority!!! Everyone who I have spoken to who has gone through Laurence tells me that they develop truly GOOD people. This world needs good people and we are so lucky to be a partOf this community. There is no school that compares to Laurence. It is worth every penny. My kids are excited and happyTo go to schoolEveryday and they are developing a love of learning because of how they do things. I cannot say enough good things about Laurence Schooll!!!!!
Submitted by parent on March 25, 2015

Laurence school has been a true blessing to our family! Our two daughters have thrived here in the inspiring and nurturing learning environment and under the excellent leadership of administrators and amazing teachers. The philosophy of educating the whole child really means that each child's needs are met so they can excel in every way. As my oldest daughter is now graduating, I would also like to commend the school on a smooth and supportive transition through the middle school application process. All our 6th grade graduates are heading to their first choice school in the fall and we are thrilled! Laurence School really is the best kept secret around.
Submitted by parent on January 07, 2015

Laurence School is pure magic! I am in awe of the human beings my children are becoming. The heads of school, faculty, and families are nothing short of perfect. In the nearly ten years that we have been part of this thriving community, I have watched my kids grow into confident leaders who treat others with empathy and respect. On the academic front, Laurence remains a cutting edge institution. Whether it is the introduction of smart boards and I pads (prior to other schools), the small group learning, the passion for STEAM, the incredible performing arts departments, the community service outreach, the leadership programs, etc Laurence is a unique and special place. As sad as I am that Laurence stops at 6th grade, I know that my kids will be completely prepared with the best of life skills and academic knowledge for the next chapter of their lives. Ms. Wolke literally holds our hands through the entire middle school application process. She has a real sense of where each kid will thrive and works hard to place accordingly. We trust her judgement 100% and she is the Captain of our ship. We are grateful and proud to be members of such a fine community.
Submitted by other on December 18, 2014

A rare academic institution dedicated to the best quality for individual learning. Leadership, administration, faculty, staff and families for a dedicated team. Classical and contemporary educational fundamentals fuse to bring about young graduates who never forget the teachings and humanity found their. The Jacobson Family remain there going on 60+ years of their dedicated life true to their original miss in and passion. PHDragonas, MD, Physician, educator and Grandparent. Boston 12-18-2014