Edwin Markham Elementary School

101 Markham Avenue

School District

Vacaville Unified
Grade

K-6
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:22
Type

public

School Map for Vacaville 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 other on October 09, 2024

I wish ZERO was an option. This school has their priorities displaced. The main areas of focus are attendance, food and the parking lot. Administration cares most that there is a student in a seat to secure funding, never mind anything else about the student. The amount of ableism displayed at this campus is sickening. At every assembly, administrators mention sometimes students may not feel well, but it likely isn’t bad enough to keep them home and encourage families to bring their children sick. Then they hand out ribbons to those who showed up to school and count how many students per class to see which class has the most. On Fridays they share which grade has the best attendance and sometimes offer prizes to the top class of the month for each grade. They ensure each child receives only one free meal despite children saying they’re still hungry. No child should be refused already free food at school if a child is still hungry. One of the largest focuses outside of funding and food is the parking lot. Every spot is now marked a “staff” parking spot other than a few stalls at the very end of the parking lot by the cafeteria, on the opposite side of the office. They prefer you drop your child off in the drive through line and pick them up when the bell rings at the end of the day. The attitude of most office workers and administrators is unwelcoming. They are very rude when you do engage with them. It’s well known by students any behavior is allowed and there will be no consequences. They will reframe or twist any situation in a way that’s beneficial for them. This used to be a good school with caring staff and over years it’s deteriorated tremendously, which is a shame considering it’s one of the newly remodeled schools in Vacaville.
Submitted by parent on September 12, 2024

Markham Elementary is a fantastic school. My two children are enrolled in the SPICE program, and they thoroughly enjoy learning a second language. The teachers are outstanding, and my kids look forward to going to school every day. The PTO is also exceptional, consistently organizing excellent activities and fundraisers.However, my main concern is with the school's administration, particularly the principal. Last year, I encountered issues with unclear and unpublished rules that made school pickup extremely challenging. It seems that these "rules" are enforced inconsistently by the principal and her staff. This year, there appear to be additional new rules that we are expected to be aware of without proper communication.There is a significant lack of communication and consideration for the impact of these new policies. When I have tried to address these issues directly, I have not received any response. In the past, the administration was more approachable, carefully considered the pros and cons of new policies, and communicated changes effectively. It feels like the current administration is overly controlling, even affecting parents' access to their children.
Submitted by other on August 11, 2016

Markham Elementary school has an excellent peer immersion program. The teachers are very hands on and try really hard to help students with learning deficits, and are excellent at challenging students who need to be challenged to keep them engaged in academics. This school deserves a much higher ranking
Submitted by parent on September 03, 2014

The SPICE Program at Markham Elementary truly is the hidden jewel of Vacaville. Our three children attend the SPICE Program (Spanish/English Dual Immersion). We have been amazed at the passion for teaching and the high expectations placed on students through the years. The teachers and administrators go above and beyond to provide learning experiences, support, and a feeling of community in a fun, respectful atmosphere. Our kids already dread graduating from Markham and having to move on to junior high. They will be Markham Timberwolves for life! Markham PRIDE!
Submitted by parent on February 14, 2013

I wanted to give this school a try since it is our assigned school. However, after half a year I am wishing we never sent our daughter there. My daughters 1st grade class has 34 students, 1 teacher & no teachers aid. They are so far behind what my daughter was learning in her last school (overseas DODDS school) that we have found ourselves teaching her at home. The administration at the school is mostly concerned with raising test scores and catering to ESL students. I would not recommend this school to anyone, the only reason I gave them any stars is that there are a few very good teachers there who genuinely seem to care about the kids and about teaching.
Submitted by parent on September 22, 2010

We transferred from another dual immersion program. The SPICE (Spanish English Immersion Cultural Education) program is wonderful at Markham. Many involved parents and a diverse student body, we felt more welcomed here than the previous immersion program. Compassionate teachers who demand the best of their students, also make for a great community at Edwin Markham.
Submitted by other on May 07, 2009

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