If I am being honest don't send your kids to this school, it is utterly a mess, everything is just for money. The teachers aren't patient and those who were left to better places. I can say this because I experienced it as a former student. The school makes it unfair for those who financially un-stable. If you are looking for a school with joy, non-bullying, non- attitude teachers, strict but makes it fun, non- charging everything, don't go here or send your child here. They want things that only contribute themselves. Just until a couple of months ago they " Remodeled," the school, when I mean remodeled I mean paint over the walls and water fountains and the bathrooms have been there since 2006. The staff don't put any effort and are not patient, the only hard working person is the lady in the office. My family even have experienced many things there, and wouldn't go back. The school and community change your child and the teachers make it very hard and never really go through a explanation until they understand they just go over briefly and don't even care to ask if they understand it now.. Don't forget those students usually 6-8 are very disrespectful towards the teachers. I thank those who were actually making things fun there but overall I don't and would never go back there at least not with those teachers. I forgot to mention there are unlicensed "Helpers," there too! Anyways have a great day and I suggest you move on! :)
Submitted by parent on March 15, 2016
ST MARY school is one of the BEST schools in Los Angeles. Children live what they learn both academically and spiritually. It teaches and instills in children early the core mission of reason, religion, and loving kindness. It also encourages parent involvement in their child's learning process. Our child has attended this school since Kinder and we did not encounter any problems like the one posted on May 26, 2015. St Mary is a SCHOOL and not a DAYCARE. The principal, Sr Anna, and vice principal, Mrs Retana, are all very supportive of the children, and ready to listen to parent's concerns. Sadly, this will be Sr Anna's last year as principal of the school. One of the best teachers the school have is Mrs Martin, 4th grade teacher. Her curriculum is far advance for a typical 4th grader. With this kind of program, student will be better prepared going to higher grade levels. It's also worth mentioning Mr Serrano and Sr Maria, 1st and 8th grade teachers, who also excels in their teaching. The drawback is that extra curricular activities are not that many and the school lacks a playground for young kids. But overall, the school is a great place for children to learn, grow spiritually, and at the same time have fun. The school has a high satisfaction among parents and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! TRY IT!
Submitted by other on May 26, 2015
BEWARE OF THIS SCHOOL. We enrolled our son in Transitional Kinder and paid the standard (not a lower amount than the other parents) tuition in full before the school year started. Once the school year began we became aware of some factors that were not presented to us at the time of enrollment. 1) The TK class only had a licensed teacher until 11:30 am (about 2 hours of curriculum); 2) An unlicensed teacher was there the rest of the afternoon; 3) the students were not allowed to to frequently go to the restroom since there was only teacher and had many accidents; and 5) the students were supposed to only nap for 1 hour but were left to sleep for 2 or more hours. When these concerns were brought to the principal's, Sister Ana, attention she opted to only keep the 4 students, out of 13, who were the age of 4 before September 1st, and kicked out the rest of the students. Needless to say my son had to be enrolled in a new school after 2 months. It was devastating for him as he had a hard time transitioning to a new school with a new teacher and new students. I am still trying to resolve this issue with the Archdiocese after 7 months as I feel that I should be reimbursed for the additional cost of uniforms and classroom supplies that I needed to repurchase as a result of St. Mary's ending their contract with my family. Never mind all the items that we donated to the school. This school is only interested in money and taking advantage of the parents/families that do whatever they can to make the students' education better. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILDREN HERE.
Submitted by parent on June 21, 2014
Our third year with the school and my daughter is thriving as ever. Very pleased on how they stressed on behavior formation esp while students are still young. Academic is very good as well... Challenging students to always excel and do their best.
Submitted by parent on February 12, 2014
St. Mary school LA is a Salesian school. Its principal and assistant principal are very kind and approachable. The parish hall serves as a cafeteria and auditorium. The school offers breakfast for $1.50 and hot lunch for $3. It also has an after school care for $6 a day except Wed which is $10. First communion is in 3rd grade. Tuition fees are lower compared to other Catholic schools. It has 2 sets of uniforms and sometimes students can wear a free dress when announced. Family Sunday mass is held once a month in St. Mary Church. Academic lessons are not that advance but students are enriched with good moral values. For most working parents like me, the school is very convenient.
Submitted by teacher on January 21, 2012
Are you looking for an excellent school for your child or children? Enroll them at St. Mary's School at 416 S. St. Louis Street in Los Angeles. It has loving and dedicated principal. The teachers and staff are very open and approachable. The parents are supportive and of course, the students try to study hard. It has excellent curriculum. Technology is super and modernized. Come and see. You will love this school to no end. Try it quick otherwise you might be in waiting list. Good luck!
Submitted by teacher on October 02, 2011
This school has a very supportive principal, Sister Anna Bui. The families are very lucky here because the teachers are hardworking and the community is very prayerful. More power to all the Salesians.