As a parent of two sons who attended Broadoaks Children's School at Whittier College -- one from…read morepreschool through 8th grade and the other from preschool through 6th grade -- I can confidently say that Broadoaks provided one of the most exceptional educational experiences our family could have hoped for. The academics were rigorous, but what made Broadoaks truly special was the way the teachers and staff inspired children to rise to those expectations with confidence and curiosity. The students were not simply sitting at desks memorizing facts. They were encouraged to move, collaborate, play, reflect, ask questions, think critically, and problem solve. Learning was active, meaningful, and individualized. I honestly did not fully appreciate just how extraordinary Broadoaks was until my sons transitioned to public high school. It quickly became clear that the skills they developed at Broadoaks far surpassed those of many of their peers. They entered high school with strong time management skills, confidence, excellent communication abilities, critical thinking skills, and the ability to independently meet and exceed classroom objectives and expectations. Broadoaks prepared them not only academically, but as capable, thoughtful, and self-directed young people. Like many small independent schools, Broadoaks was impacted by COVID and continues to work toward rebuilding enrollment and community support. Unlike public schools, they do not have the same funding resources, which makes community support even more important. If you are looking for a school that truly values individualized education, nurtures intellectual curiosity, and develops confident, capable learners, Broadoaks is the place. In my opinion, Broadoaks represents the standard all schools should strive for.

Prospective families should be aware that the Executive Director does not operate in true…read morepartnership with parents. When concerns are raised, communication is handled in a dismissive manner rather than through collaboration or dialogue. Parent input is acknowledged superficially, key points are bypassed, and agreements made at the classroom level are not upheld at the executive level. After receiving an assessment that did not accurately reflect our child's abilities (completed less than two months into enrollment), we raised concerns about the lack of context, narrative, and communication. The teachers acknowledged the assessment was not an accurate reflection of her capabilities and agreed it should be updated to reflect her short acclimation period and current capabilities. However, when this was escalated to the Executive Director, those agreements were disregarded. Rather than updating the assessment as discussed, leadership insisted on singling out a child instead of correcting an administrative misstep. Requests to simply revise the original assessment with accurate context were dismissed. When we expressed concern about the long-term academic implications of having an inaccurate student record, we were dismissed. The Executive Director superficially acknowledged our concerns, and reasonable requests were met with inflexibility rather than problem-solving. A school's culture is shaped from the top. If families are leaving, leadership may want to reflect on how parent advocacy is received and addressed.

This is where I went to kindergarten. I remember absolutely loving school here, but that's…read moreprobably due mainly to the fact that I had a huge crush (my first!) on my teacher, Miss Pasic. I apologize, Miss Pasic, if I'm misspelling your name, but I didn't know how to read or write in kindergarten. In additional to normal kindergarten things, which were really cool, there is a really fun play area that only the two kindergarten classrooms have access to during the school day. You used to be able to sneak into this play area, but they might lock the gate now. They also had some sort of big party thing that involved a cake-decorating competition, which I won (with 95 percent of the work having been done by my dad). I don't have any idea how large the crowd was, but it seemed massive to me (I was five). The cake was really cool. It was a race car with Goofy in it, and it was my idea to use donuts for the wheels. This school is also cool because it has multiple levels and because they offer classes for kids in the summer. I took one about reptiles and another one that I can't remember.

I too, went K-6 to MRE...the home I grew up in bordered the school property. I was sad to see it in…read morethe News on Fri. Pray for the family & the lives lost. Many happy memories from Mrs Jergens in1967 to Mr Brink in 1973 to Flag Football & Fireworks during the Summer!!!

I am a PICKY parent...lol. I searched and searched for a school that I would love, and after 6+…read moreschools, I found Carden of Whittier! It was important for me that my child was NOT another number, but an individual, with an identity. That my family would be known on a first name basis, and that her school would truly be " a home away form home"! Academics had to be strong, class size had to be small, campus had to be clean and in a nice area. Carden met all of these needs. Carden has helped me raise my daughter into a strong, intelligent young lady. She is more than prepared for her academic future! She carries herself with pride, can communicate well and has huge aspirations for her future..I know this school has a lot to do with all of the above! Thank you Carden!

My two girls currently attend Carden Academy and we love our school!! I strongly believe that the…read moreschool provides my children with a quality enriched education as well as a safe and nurturing environment. My oldest who is currently in the 4th grade has been attending since the 1st grade. Both of my girls love going to school and they are both excelling academically and socially. If you are looking for an excellent academic program as well as a safe environment Carden might be the school for your child.

I love this school. My son started Kinder there and he has learned so much. He enjoys going to…read moreschool. His teacher Mrs. Tippitt is such a great teacher, she makes things fun for the kids.

They have a new principal for 2014 school year. I had high hopes for this school when my child…read morestarted kinder but admin and the people who work at front desk are rude. Several times I needed assistance and all I got was a smart ass attitude or they were too busy. They always make you write down your information and possibly get back to you. They do not care for the parents concerns. I wish the old principal was there because he actually reassured you in any situation regarding your child. Over all not good school!

Absolutely the best preschool in the area--caring teachers, a warm and nurturing environment, and a…read morethoughtful Reggio-inspired approach that supports sensory needs and encourages learning through nature, animals, and child-led exploration. Our son is thriving and loves going every day! (He's been here since two and is about to graduate to kinder, but will be staying in the afterschool program.)

This school is truly a gem. My son attended for 2 years and I couldn't be more grateful for the…read moreteachers supporting his growth here. All of the teachers/ staff are warm and kind - they genuinely care for the children. I wish this school went up to elementary school bc I have yet to find quality teachers like Mulberry. Also the Reggio inspired philosophy they apply in their curriculum is amazing! If you're thinking of enrolling your child I wouldn't hesitate. Thank you Mulberry Tree you'll forever be in our hearts!

Best school nice teachers. Lunch lady's are nice Ms. Romero is a kind teacher taught my daughter…read morewell. They keep the kids safe and have many field trips lots of fundraisers that are fun for kids

Coming from an LAUSD school, Mulberry Elementary is what I wish my school would have been like, or…read moremy sons 1st elementary. From day 1 i noticed the difference in communication and attention to the kiddos. The amount of school spirit the faculty and staff have is so heartwarming.

Our 8 year old son always had a difficult time at the schools he was previously in…read more When my wife and toured Whittier Friends School and met the staff, we instantly felt that " this is it" feeling and we were right! The way the teachers pour their knowledge, love, and kindness into the kids is a Godsend! They have amazing field trips, creative ways of teaching, small classes for a better learning experience, and a strong encouragement of parental involvement. Our son can't wait to go to school the next day! It brings us so much joy knowing that he is excelling at such a high rate. This is his second year and he will continue to attend Whittier Friends School for as many years as he can!

This is a small but amazing school. Multi age small classrooms cultivate a culture of tolerance and…read morecooperation. The small student to teacher ratio ensures dedicated and through lesson plans where students are taught in a classic lesson then pencil to page reinforcement style without screens and a lot of teacher/ student interaction. Computers are used occasionally and sparingly. This as a positive because eye contact when speaking, problemsolving and communication skills are built while learning. We get a report about how the day at pick up that include the day's class activities, behavior and reminders about any school activities or meetings that are taking place or upcoming. The school takes lots of field trips that encourage learning outside the classroom and apply to the current curriculum. This school fosters a culture of scholarship, good citizenship, physical, mental and emotional health, and tolerance. Each child is encouraged to be his or her own unique and wonderful self in a gentle and structured environment. I am so happy we found rhis school and so happy with my son's academic progress. He will be attending this school until he ages out.

Beautiful school I love it so much best teacher is Mrs hash 2 nd grade…read moreSo good school amazing lunch with the principal field trips dress up days

Some of the teachers are super rude. Especially in fifth grade, my daughter got bullied and the…read moreschool and teachers did nothing about it. Never EVER seeing this school again.