Ponderosa Elementary School

804 Ponderosa Avenue

School District

Santa Clara Unified
Grade

K-5
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:16
Type

public

School Map for Santa Clara 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 February 06, 2025

My son attended this school from 2nd to 3rd grade. When we first arrived in the United States, I relied heavily on school ratings, not fully understanding how they were calculated. I assumed that a 6/10 rating meant an average school. But let me tell you— the teachers at Ponderosa truly know their craft.My son always had homework, was required to read for 20–30 minutes daily, and had to maintain a Reading Log, which he submitted to his teacher every day. He started at Ponderosa with zero knowledge of English, yet from day one, he was fully supported by everyone—classmates, teachers, and school staff. He was also provided with an ESL teacher to help him learn English as a second language.Later, we moved to a different area with a school rated 10/10. And you know what? The teaching quality and approach at Ponderosa were far superior to those at our current school. Here, students don’t have regular homework—reading at home is optional, and no one really follows up if they don’t. Now that I have something to compare it to, I can confidently say that Ponderosa offers an excellent education.Beyond academics, the school has a vibrant social life—family events, school-wide activities, field trips, and in-class celebrations.I also want to touch on conflicts at the school. Due to language barriers, occasional misunderstandings, and sometimes poor manners from certain students, we encountered a couple of conflicts. However, we always addressed them in writing with the teacher and, in one instance, with the principal. The school took action every time—they listened to us, engaged in dialogue, and resolved the issues. This level of responsiveness is a huge advantage.I wholeheartedly wish Ponderosa continued success! Thank you, Ponderosa!
Submitted by parent on February 07, 2023

My son completed elementary school last year at Ponderosa. He was in Ponderosa since kindergarten. Our experience has been absolutely great from the beginning. Within two weeks of joining kindergarten, my son began to read which he could not in a private pre-k school. This school has great teachers who put importance on reading and teach children the ability to self-learn which is the most important thing needed when children go to middle school and high school. The school impressed upon the children the 4 Bs of being respectful, safe, responsible and kind which I felt transformed my son into building good foundational values. I recommend this school if you are looking to ensure your child gets excellent teachers, an environment where children thrive in reading and learning that is fun and practical while building strong character.
Submitted by parent on August 29, 2021

I am very happy with the school...My daughter went to this school from 1st grade to 5th grade...last year she graduated from ponderosa...she loved her school and teachers..all the staff is very hard working...I am very pleased with her progress over the years...even the office staff is very helpful...now my son goes to ponderosa elementary school...he started his kindergarten last year...
Submitted by parent on January 28, 2021

This school is a gem! It is not a score 10, but I have did quite a bit of research and compared with several schools with scores 9 or 10, and I still decided to join this school. We have been with the school for 4 years. I believe I have made the right decision. The teachers are extremely nice. The principle was the best I have seen! There are a lot of free programs(arts, music with instruments, PE, coding and etc.) and afterschool programs (with fee) to support the development other than academics. Everything is very organized around the school. I’d definitely recommend it!
Submitted by parent on August 09, 2018

Ponderosa has been amazing since we moved here 6 year ago. I have 3 kids, one of them already now in middle school and one time we have experienced anything but support and love.
Submitted by parent on May 09, 2018

I love Ponderosa Elementary School! My daughter started here since kindergarten and graduated in 2017. She had wonderful teachers every year. She often comes back to volunteer at school events like Halloween Happenings, Walkathon, and the book fairs. This is a friendly and welcoming school that people feel like belonging to a community.
Submitted by parent on February 27, 2018

My experience with school is wonderful, both teachers and Principle are awesome. It helped my child to thrive in many fields academic, social, leadership and many more.
Submitted by parent on February 27, 2018

Great school. My child is associated with this school from past 2 years.My overall experience is good. They have very friendly staff. School runs a lot of programmes to boost the overall development of the child. They have classes on chess, Basketball,Soccer,yoga, coding, dance etc. School council conduct events to involve parents and to invoke awareness on many important topics. Day care is a blissful to working parents.
Submitted by parent on February 03, 2018

My overall experience with my 2 kids is wonderful.
Submitted by parent on August 22, 2017

Supportive caring staff and principal, positive discipline strategy, embracing diversity and outstanding event for kids
Submitted by parent on May 12, 2017

As being part of the Hispanic minority in this school our over all social experience has been great. Teachers are exceptionally caring as they carefully encourage students to be and do their best. The staff and principle do a wonderful job at teaching students to respect one another.
Submitted by parent on February 06, 2017

My child is having a really great time. He enjoys being at Ponderosa, and we absolutely love it. Teachers are fantastic.
Submitted by parent on December 11, 2015

We love this school. Awesome teachers and they are very dedicated. Mrs. Meltzer is an amazing leader for the school.
Submitted by parent on October 26, 2015

My son goes to Ponderosa elementarty since Grade 2...he is currently in Grade 4. He was in a private school before and as parents we are amazed at the positive change in his personality, level of confidence, social interactions with his peers. Responsibility and Respectfulness are taken seriously at Ponderosa and students are highly motivated by the teachers and Mrs. Meltzer to put in their best efforts. I would highly recommend Ponderosa elementary.
Submitted by other on June 02, 2015

Great school overall. Principal really on top of things, firms, caring, full of energy and good ideas. Very hood teachers and awesome parent community. Had my 3 dons there and am really happy I did.
Submitted by parent on June 05, 2014

My child attended Ponderosa from Kindergarten through 5th grade, and enjoyed every single moment of it. From the principal, Mrs. Jackson--who is a consummate professional with a loving heart and kind ear-- to all of the devoted and dedicated teachers, I simply could not have asked for better than what I found in this school. The teachers genuinely care about the academic success of each and every student, not just a select few. Whether your child needs additional support in their studies or desire a more rigorous academic challenge, most of the teachers will do what it takes to meet your child's needs. There is a strong PTA presence that strives to enrich the social and cultural side of the school in addition to providing much needed fundraising efforts. Although this is Mrs. Jackson's last year (2014) as Principal, there is a lot of optimism and confidence in the new principal, Mrs. Meltzer, an individual in her own right who is highly respected and regarded. My daughter's experience at Ponderosa was better than what other school districts or private schools offered and if I had to do it all again, I wouldn't change a thing. Highly recommend!
Submitted by parent on March 09, 2014

My daughter is going to this school for pre-k. She loves this school and our's too.
Submitted by parent on June 08, 2013

My daughter finished her Kindergarten in Ponderosa, and it was a great year for her at school. Her Kindergarten Teacher for always very responsive, and addressed my daughter's academic, social as well as artistic needs. The Principal is very approachable, and dedicated to the school programs. The PTA group does a great job in supporting various events, and communication with parents is great. I will definitely recommend the school!
Submitted by parent on September 19, 2011

My daughter just started her kindergarten here at Ponderosa. She loves it ! Her teacher is very caring for her students. We are happy at this school.