Saint Cecilia (SC) is a great school. It has two classes per grade, which separate it from other parochial schools in San Francisco with only one class per grade. SC also has a new Transitional Kindergarten. It has been a staple of Parkside, West Portal, Sunset for over 85 years. It is considered one of the main feeder schools for elite Catholic High Schools in San Francisco. There is a new administration led by a young, energetic Principal (2019), and also a new Pastor and Deacon (2018/2019). Lastly, while SC has been a relatively large catholic grade school, strong in traditional academic and athletics, there is now a big capital campaign push to remodel a new five story STEAM building in the old convent at the school (goal 2021/2022) There are well-attended clubs and activities like music, Mandarin, Scouts at the school. The large volunteer parent involvement makes the SC community stong. ~The Finest, the Greatest, the Best. read more

I'm writing this review as an update to my previous one which was written in 2018. I am a former student of Saint Cecilia school. Looking back at my experience as a student here from the early 1990s, I would like to revisit the past, but more importantly, look at the present school. First off, my experiences were from over 30 years ago now, and all of the teachers and school administration from my era there are long gone. Although my experience had its bad moments, which my previous review laid out, I did have many positive ones. And as the years have gone by, and I've gotten older and had children of my own that are now about the age that I was at the time I was at Saint Cecilia's, I've realized I do need to revisit the past. When I look back at my time at Saint Cecilia's, I have to say that I really loved my fellow classmates (as well as the 8th grade buddy system we kindergartners had once a week). I also believe that part of the problem was that I was in the afternoon kindergarten class, if I had been in the morning class I would've had a different teacher, Mrs. Watters, who was always very nice to me and loved by her students. Even at the time, I remember wishing I had her as my teacher. The afternoon kindergarten class, which I was a part of with Mrs. Lindemann as my teacher, changed the following year after I went into first grade because Mrs. Lindemann left teaching altogether, I think that says something. I think it's important to not hold grudges, and even though I did have some bad experiences, there were many good ones. I believe in forgiveness and that at some point you have to let the past go, and I think that ability often times comes with the wisdom that life gives as you get older. My memories are that essentially everyone else in the teaching staff that I remember at the school (except Mrs. Lindemann and Mrs. McNamara) were nice to me, and as I said, I really had great friends there with my former classmates (I'm actually facebook friends to this day with one of them and his mom). Most of the kids that were in my kindergarten class did not return to Saint Cecilia's for first grade the following year, I always suspected based on things I heard that it was because of Mrs. Lindemann and the experience us boys in particular had with her the previous year, she did not seem to like boys and that was palpable. But as an adult, who now has kids that age, I have to say that it does look like Saint Cecilia's is a very different place in 2026 than it was in the early 1990s. And given the changes I have seen, I would definitely give the school a shot with my own children today if I still lived in San Francisco. I do have many fond memories of Saint Cecilia and I don't want to allow a few "rotten apples" to spoil the whole barrel. There were good times in those days at the school, and I just want to put that out there in hindsight. Shortly after kindergarten ended, my family moved out of San Francisco, which is where I had been born and raised, and I will say that I really did miss Saint Cecilia's a lot when I started at my new Catholic school in a completely different city. I'm taking off one star on this new review just because those bad events in the early 1990s did happen and they were very difficult for me to deal with at the time as a small child. But that was another time and another era, and the school has changed and I've changed, and I do very much like what I have heard and seen of how the school is today. As I said, if I still lived in the city, I would definitely give Saint Cecilia's a shot at my kids going there today. I wish Saint Cecilia school all the best, it was my first school as a young child and I will never forget those days, the West Portal neighborhood, or the school. read more

As a parent of four children who have attended Saint Cecilia School, I can speak to the lasting impact this school has on families and students. Two of my children are now in college, one is in high school, and my youngest continues as a current student here. What impresses me most is the exceptional foundational academic preparation my children received. The skills and knowledge they gained at Saint Cecilia continue to serve them well in their educational journeys and beyond. Actually, my oldest college son said to me recently that if he lived in San Francisco and had children, he would send them to Saint Cecilia, wow. Beyond academics, Saint Cecilia creates a community where families belong. From cheering at CYO games to participating in beloved traditions like the annual crab feed, there's always something that brings everyone together. The school doesn't just educate your children; it invites your entire family to become part of the SC family. read more

I can't say enough good things about this school -- it truly feels like family. I went here myself, and now seeing the next generation experience the same sense of belonging and purpose makes it even more special. What sets this school apart is how it blends tradition, community, and service in such a natural, meaningful way. The teachers genuinely care, the faith-based foundation is strong, while valuing diversity and making those who aren't Catholic feel welcome. St. Cecilia students grow up grounded, confident, and kind. You'll see the impact in the friendships too -- lifelong bonds that bring alumni families back year after year. There's something rare and real about that kind of continuity in a big city like San Francisco. If you're looking for a place where your child will be known, supported, and part of something lasting -- this is it. read more

Over the past 9 years, our family has had a very positive experience at St. Cecilia School. All three of our kids attend, and it's been a place where they feel supported, challenged, and genuinely happy. The community is one of the school's greatest strengths--families are kind, involved, and down-to-earth. There's a healthy mix of legacy families and new ones, and the school does a good job of making everyone feel welcome. It's an inclusive environment where kids find a variety of friendships, and where parents show up--whether it's coaching, carpooling, or volunteering in countless ways. In Kindergarten, children are matched with an 8th grade buddy, and my kids have always treasured that relationship. The parent association (Mother's and Men's Club) is very active and organizes a wide range of events throughout the year, like Multicultural Day and Christmas Boutique, that add a lot of joy to the kids' experience. There's a sense of shared investment in the school, and it shows. Academics and cocurriculars at St. Cecilia are strong and well-rounded. The teaching staff is committed, and classrooms make thoughtful use of technology. There's a wide range of sports and clubs, and music is a real standout--students can learn instruments like piano, violin, and guitar. The music director, Cecilia, is a gift to the school, and Jill Wenzel is a kind and talented piano teacher. The Athletics Directors have been anchors at the school, and they do a standout job of making our school sports well-regarded citywide--the excitement and pride at our Friday night games in the beautiful, full-sized gym says it all. I wish I could name all of the impactful teachers, but that list would be too long. Students have opportunities to take field trips and make at least one presentation every year. Faith is woven into the school day, and always in a way that emphasizes love, kindness, and compassion, which embraces everyone. Families and teachers set a clear tone that bullying and inappropriate behavior are not accepted, and the students reflect that in how they treat one another. If your child needs a smaller classroom setting or more specialized academic support, this may not be the perfect fit. But for many families, ours included, it's been a place where kids grow into caring, thoughtful, educated, and grounded young people, all while having a lot of fun. It's the kind of school they'll look back on fondly--and maybe even hope to send their own children to one day. read more

The way they set up the tour very informative and professionally done. The principal and assistant principal presented a good presentation. They even had donuts coffee water and some fruit parfait. The school is great and students goes on to top high schools read more

I've been a part an active part of the St. Cecilia School and parish community for 12+ years as a parent to three students. St. Cecilia (SC) is so much more than a school - it is a community that seeks to help it's students and their families thrive. SC is also known for a high caliber in academics, athletics, enrichment programs, and service. Throughout our time at SC we have been so grateful to be a part of a community that supports each other in the ups and downs of life, and that our children have grown up learning the importance and value of community. My students were challenged and very well prepared for high school. Many SC graduates return to give back to the school through coaching and volunteering. The school is also a great mix of students of alumni and first-time SC and SF families respecting and honoring our rich history and traditions while also having a constant eye toward the future. I highly recommend SC for your student and for your family. SC is known as "The Finest, the Greatest, the Best" - a lot to live up to but it truly does! read more

An excellent school and a great community. We are currently enrolled and have been for some time. Great teachers, good leadership.

Growing up in the Sunset in SF, St. Cecilia was an institution. The beautiful church and clock tower with bells ringing at noon. I went to a rival Catholic school for elementary but when it came time for our kids to start school, we had considered that school, but in the end we decided St. Cecilia was the right choice for our kids and family. They had just started a wonderful T-K program that our child loved. The younger classes particularly T-K and kindergarten have quite a remarkable number of teachers and aides per child - there were 4 teachers + aides in TK for 25 kids and 5 in Kinder for 25 kids - It's amazing! For K-8 the grades are broken into 2 classes which we like a lot too. I can't say enough about the parish and school community! For San Francisco, which is soooo transient and a seemingly huge divide between the haves and have nots - this school and church includes such a wide swath of folks. Being at the crossroads of West Portal/St. Francis Woods there are the "haves", but the proximity to the Sunset District and 19th Ave. make it convenient for a wonderfully diverse group (I know several families who live in Daly City and Pacifica). Yes, there are families of techies but there are an overwhelming amount of families of first responders, city workers, and so many other backgrounds you really feel a bit of normal in this city that we all know "is not what it used to be". I have felt very little, if any, pretentiousness or cliquishness. Almost everyone I have met through the school and church have been very welcoming and fun to boot! The principal is new this year after a few years of flux in the administration as well as a newish pastor - but their enthusiasm is infectious and really has brought a wonderful energy and momentum to the school and church community. The education is very well-rounded and I know my child is getting the tools needed to grow and succeed academically, emotionally and socially. The extra programs are fantastic too - they offer an optional music program to the children during school (or after school as convenient) for many different instruments; language and culture programs; theatre and improv; and several sports options from kindergarten up. They are just getting up and running on more expansive STEAM offerings but there is currently a lot of focus on that financially and organizationally. The community and family-involved activities are the best! My kids cannot wait for the annual fall festival every year (and if you have not seen it, it is an actual fun fair with rides, games, dunk tanks and everything!), the Christmas boutique, Multi-cultural day and the food fair, Parish Picnic etc. The parents, teachers and administration put their heart and soul into making this a wonderful learning and growing environment for the kids and it really shows. This year their motto is "Be the Change" and you really see that instilled in the kids from their teachers but also with each other. We definitely made the right choice! read more

I had the best time here. Minus a star for the uniforms Peter Pan collars - paleeeeze! Albeit in the 80's but I had fun! Playing tether-ball, Red Rover, Dodge Ball or Four Square - OMG FOUR SQUARE!!!! I had all the hard teachers! Sr Bernice, Ms Little OY! Sister Marilyn was super tough! But I lived to tell the tale! Hot Dog lunches for $1 or $1.50 if you wanted 2 - Nice! But I heard it better now there is actually real food there. Loved the SC vs Holy Name tournaments!! Good Times! read more

First, please don't depend on Yelp to plan your child's academic path. For real insight, do your research. Go on tours. Talk to parents and teachers. St. Cecilia is a solid, affordable school in an area where options are limited. The teachers are hard working. The community is highly engaged, and supportive. The students are exceptional. Like any school, there are pros and cons. Your mileage will vary depending on your family's needs and expectations. read more

I love Saint Cecilia School! My oldest is an alumni of SC since 2017 and now my youngest is attending the wonderful school. We are grateful to have such an incredible student body and close community that supports our children and their goals. The school inspires our children's dreams with futures they strive to achieve. Not only are the teachers and staff supportive, but to have such an incredible support from the parents as well, makes this school extraordinary. I know that the environment SC provides will allow the children to flourish into the best versions of themselves. read more

Saint Cecilia's is rocking their distance learning! This review is long overdue!! From the start, our principal, Mr. Uskert, has handled this incredibly! Welcome to your first year challenge! In our families eyes, you have done an excellent job. Everything from communications to the parents, the students, and making sure the teachers were up for this challenge. The teachers themselves should also be recognized! They have really stepped up and learned themselves how to teach a virtual classroom through ZOOM. This is not easy on anyone and everyone is doing their best!! Including the children! From what I am witnessing, the teachers are checking in with their students not just about course work but about their wellness too! They care, and they really do!! Although I understand, it saddens me that COVID-19 is preventing these children from finishing off the school year together. My heart breaks for the memories lost for the classes that had "special" celebrations this year. We won't give up Saint Cecilia! We will "BE THE CHANGE" and come back "STRONGER TOGETHER!" - Baisman's read more

Wow! I can't believe there are only 2 reviews for son's alma matter, Saint Cecilia School. My son attended SC from K-8 and I have nothing but heavens high praises for the school - Msgr. Harriman, the principal, teachers and administrators. Phenomenal community spirit and rock solid Catholic foundation to bolster any child that attends and will attend SC. How I wish there is high school grades 9 -12 program from SC so I didn't have to join the rat race to go to other high schools. God bless SC and may you live and thrive for a thousand years! GO IRISH!!! read more

Saint Cecilia is a great school for all children to go to, although, there are some tough times while at Saint Cecilia. I love going to SC, but the homework sometimes was a little but too much. I learned to cope with the load, plus, when you get to high school the load doesn't seem as much to you as it does to others. I loved all the SC vs. Holy Name tournaments, of course, SC always won. The Spirit days were fun, and of course, Free Dress. I loved SC and would recommend the school to others. The teachers for sure prepare you for the future and help you form your own moral beliefs. read more

I can firsthand express how wonderful the school community at SC is. From the well planned and reflective retreats in the junior high grades and the exciting Holy Name tournaments, St. Cecilia School represents unity. The best part is by far the class sizes. Not only do you get perfectly sized (at most 32 students) classes, but two classes per grade, resulting in shuffling up of specific class members, highly encouraging socialization among as many classmates as possible. Also, I can honestly say the junior high classes prepared me well for high school and helped me easily expect what the environment of St. Ignatius would be like (work load, variety of teachers and students, etc.) I am also proud to say I am a member of a large SC family. In addition to myself, I have had 6 cousins graduate from the school, and a relative who taught for some time at SC. I am very grateful to have attended as wonderful a school as Saint Cecilia's!! read more