Like so many parents in the Pasadena area researching private schools, we did alllll the tours. We hadn't heard much about Saint Mark's and always assumed from the name that it would lean heavily religious, which wasn't something we were looking for. We also didn't like that it ended at 6th grade (something we later decided was actually a plus). Toward the end of the touring season we decided to stop in simply because it was close to our work. I am not exaggerating when I say we walked out of that little school under the shady pine trees like "this is The One". Coming from a strictly play-based non-academic preschool, we really wanted to continue letting our kids be kids, learning through play and curiosity. But we also knew we wanted them to be challenged academically. And not to sound boastful but we have nice kids; we wanted them surrounded by other nice kids. I didn't want my kids to lose their sense of just being nice, kind humans. What we found at Saint Mark's was a balance that really worked for us. Academics are strong, learning is hands-on and meaningful, and the kids are still excited. Their teachers clearly care about them. The kids are happy. And nice. Polite and well spoken. During the tour, they looked like they were having a good time being at school, laughing, joking with friends at lunch, singing on the way back from recess. Overall we've been really happy since enrolling. We are now in our third year here. Watching what they do, even in Kinder, has been impressive. They have Writer's Workshop and write diary entries about their Halloween class pumpkin decomposing in a tub for months. In another unit, they raised tomato hornworms we brought in from our garden and watched them transform into hawk moths, documenting the whole process. For Valentine's, I offered to drop off homemade pink play-dough to our worldly first graders (an homage to my pre-k co-op years), assuming they'd say the kids were too old. Instead, they embraced it with rolling pins and cookie cutters. The teachers are so special and genuinely know each kid as an individual, even across grade levels. Small groups in the classroom let kids learn together at the same level, wherever that may be. When my DK-er had a rough start to the school year, his teacher rearranged the daily schedule to help him feel comfortable/safe and wrote me daily emails of his progress. And speaking of progress, I never expected that it would be normal for a progress report from his teacher to include a personalized letter detailing his personality, strengths, leadership, character... It was just so unexpected and thoughtful. I'll admit that when we enrolled, I was focused entirely on academics, student/teacher ratio, kind teachers, diversity, outdoor space, and letting kids be kids. While Saint Mark's checked all those boxes, I didn't realize how special the community would be. They interviewed us as parents and not just our kids, which felt like they care about building a community of families with the same values. (I joke that I would vacation with almost any of these families, and we could definitely get through a zombie apocalypse together) Socially, there are grade-level parent parties in the Fall so you can get to know the other families, sans kids. There are events like the Fall Fest with petting zoos and bounce houses and bake sales and confetti eggs, there are potlucks and picnics, book fair, hikes. There is an annual gala fundraiser where parents can let loose for the night, as well as smaller socials that make it easy to build friendships. There are ways to be ON campus: classroom jobs and PA positions and many ways to give time/talent/donations. You can sign up to stuff red envelopes for Lunar New Year or hand out hot lunch on campus and spy on your kids while they eat. After the fires we did consider relocating. And while it may seem unusual to be temporarily housed on another campus, our kids do get to use the beautiful outdoor spaces, fields, gym and basketball court at EF. What I was initially worried about has become somewhere the kids love to be. We did still have moments of doubt about relocating or not. Ultimately Saint Marks was a big factor in our decision to stay. I know it's wild to think elementary school is what kept us from jumping ship, but we stayed in the Pasadena/Altadena area because of this school. Our kids love it and we love it for our kids. We plan to remain living locally through sixth grade because of the school, and probably longer after hearing where the 6th graders matriculate to. We're really looking forward to the rebuild. We feel incredibly lucky that we found this small, somewhat under-the-radar school almost by accident. It's hard to explain how great the culture is here until you walk through the classrooms and campus and talk to some of the students, parents, and faculty. Like any school it won't be the perfect fit for everyone but for our family our experience has been very very positive. read more

Dear school seekers, Ultimately we chose Saint Mark's for our children because it displays balance- we see both modern ideas surrounding whole-child social emotional culture with a more traditional classroom/academic load and structure. Saint Mark's has true authenticity when it comes to role-modeling what community means for our children. The Episcopal elements of school feel universally welcoming to all. As a multi-racial family, we feel very at home with Saint Mark's where DEI is not a department, an option, or a fad but a natural part of the school's identity. When we chose the school we were intentionally seeking academic rigor for our kids; and because the school embraces differentiated learning groups, we know our kids will get what they need in all subjects. The children have lots of movement throughout their day with a wide variety of subjects to explore. The school maintains boundaries with being responsible, respectful, and safe which allows all the students to take risks and lean-in knowing they have a foundation of structure and support behind them. I have noticed our children's imaginations have been flourishing due to their time at school. The teachers are joyful and friendly which invites a warmth. The parent-community is strong (and fun) which is deeper than a good time when we realize we are showing our student-body what it looks like to work-together and create something bigger that everyone can enjoy. The leadership prioritizes modern changes to education while keeping the jump-ropes and math text books in close reach. To open a new campus about six weeks after the Eaton Fire is a true symbol of how strong the community is. Come and tour! All the best, Melissa read more

We are endlessly grateful to Saint Mark's. Before our very eyes, we have watched our child grow into the very best version of who she is meant to be, supported every step of the way by devoted and expert educators who guide her to learn and flourish in ways we never would have imagined. We began there in the 3 year old program, and honestly didn't know much about the school beyond the preschool. When it came time for Kindergarten, your child automatically has a spot in the elementary program (a huge plus), but we still wanted to look around at all the competitor schools to make sure we were choosing the best possible place for our family. Our child was so well-prepared coming out of Saint Mark's preschool that she was accepted everywhere we applied. An amazing credit to the preschool! In the end, as we compared all the independent schools in the area, Saint Mark's was the place we found that equally prioritized strong academics, social emotional wellness, extracurricular opportunities, and just being a genuinely good person. We looked no further, and haven't looked back. Lots of these schools will help your child become the best version of their kind of student--Saint Mark's helps your child become the very best version of themself. read more

We have been with Saint Marks for 8 years! My oldest first started in the 3s preschool and will be graduating from Saint Marks in 2 years. We couldn't be happier. Saint Marks has exceeded our expectations in every way. The teachers are dedicated and genuinely invested in each child's success. This really rings true for my youngest who has a learning difference and needs a little extra help. His kindergarten year his teacher went above and beyond and connected with his tutor to make sure they were aligned and working on the same thing to ensure he kept on track. She also started the morning out with math after she noticed he excelled at math, it built up his confidence at the beginning of the day to ensure the remainder of the day ran smoothly. This year his teacher connected him with a learning specialist on campus during group reading time to give him the extra attention he needs to build up the confidence to read in front of his peers. The teachers really know your child and will do whatever it takes to ensure they are all getting the exact attention and help they need. The administration is approachable and responsive, always putting students first. There's a real sense of community here. Both of my sons have gained confidence and a love of learning thanks to the nurturing and engaging atmosphere. We couldn't be happier with the quality of education and care provided here and couldn't recommend Saint Marks enough!! read more

We started our journey at St Marks in fall of 2020 with our eldest starting preschool. At an unprecedented time, the school did an unbelievable job of creating an incredible in person learning environment! We have now been at the school 5 years with two kids enrolled and are so happy with the choice we made to attend this gem of a school. My husband and I grew up in the area and had always heard unbelievable reviews of St Marks from our friends, family and coworkers. And now, we are in that grouping of people who speak so highly of our beloved school. The children gain a deep love for learning and learn how to learn. Their wellness is important as well but not in a way that overshadows academics. It's the perfect hybrid of strong academics, taught in age appropriate ways... with the child's wellbeing taken care of. And on top of this, everyone we know that has graduated and gone onto prestigious independent schools in the area say that St Marks prepared the students incredibly well. We are beyond happy with St Marks and what it's provided for our children. read more

TL;DR: You'd be missing out if you didn't check out this hidden gem! I could go on and on about everything, but to save your time and mine I'll point out some highlights. - Low student to teacher ratio. Preschool is 15 kids/2 teachers per class. Elementary max of 20ish kids/2 teachers per class. Allows for differentiation in the curriculum so your kid gets a lot of attention and is being challenged at their level. - Focus on teacher retention: very good, nurturing teachers with lots of experience that are invested in the school long term. - Excellent 7th grade admissions stats. - Amazing school community: I do not know how I would raise these kids without this village and all its resources. People (administration, teachers, parents, etc) are truly authentic and caring. - Episcopalian school but actually very light on the religion. More focus on being a good person and social, emotional, moral education. Very important in this modern world. Many diverse families here, not just Christian. read more

I have had the privilege to send multiple children to Saint Mark's School. While I still have a young one enrolled and thriving, my other children got into their first choice school and are both doing very well. While being academically prepared is obviously a concern for many parents, I was more worried about making sure they had a balanced upbringing. One of the school's main missions is to "Honor the Student's Childhood." That really resonated with me because in this day in age, I feel like we are in a big rush to make our kid's "grow up" so quickly. The community at Saint Mark's School is very tight knit and you can really feel the love for each other. Of course, no school is perfect, but I think any of the adversities faced are perfectly normal and ends up building character for the child and the parents alike. I feel so lucky to have my family be part of Saint Mark's School and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to any young family who values a good balance. read more

Such a gem of a school. We are very happy we made the move and enrolled our daughter to this lovely elementary. Our daughter gives it a 10 out of 10 and comes home with a smile everyday. Teachers and admission team are wonderful. The school feels like a small community of great minds. read more

I am a parent of twins and we began Saint Mark's School in the first grade. Our experience has been an incredible one! My children have really embraced the experience at this school, there is a balance between academics and social emotional learning. This wholistic approach builds on year after year and it prepares the kids in a developmentally appropriate way, my children have enjoyed their teachers and rave about the community that makes Saint Mark's so special. COVID was a difficult time for all and I have such appreciation for how quickly the school was able to pivot and begin online instruction for the students and since then, they have not skipped a beat in making sure that students and teachers are safe as we continue to navigate thru these times. It brings me so much joy to know that my kids are ready and prepared for the next stage in their education, middle school! I have Saint Mark's to thank for preparing them to be kind, strong leaders with a hunger for knowledge read more

My son has been attending Saint Mark's since Pre-K4 and is now wrapping up his 2nd grade year. We have loved the strong and balanced education he is offered. The enrichment class opportunities he receives have a dedicated teacher, including: art, science, technology, music, Spanish, library, wellness and PE. We enjoy the down to earth culture and diversity of the community, including the amazing teachers. His past three teachers and Teacher Interns (TI) have been incredible. Every class has a TI to assist in academic and social settings, which is an incredible asset to the students. My son is happy, thriving, and well adjusted (especially through the pandemic). He has made life long friendships and looks forward to going to school each day. read more

We have been a part of the Saint Mark's Family for 3 years now, and our two children are thriving for so many reasons. The low teacher-student ratio really helps the faculty get to know each individual student and assist individual needs. Being a preschool-6th grade only, your child learns to become a leader at an early age. Our graduating 6th graders are well spoken, confident and compassionate leaders. Community is central to everything. The families come from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and are warm and welcoming. We have made many close friendships here. The families are also very supportive of the faculty and staff. They truly want the staff to continue to grow in their education and other learning avenues. We feel very blessed that our children are able to receive a first rate education in such a warm and positive environment. read more

This is our second year at Saint Mark's School. We love our children's Pre-K, K and 1st grade teachers. There are small class sizes and two teachers per class which facilitate personalized learning. The kids' needs and abilities are addressed both academically and socially. It is a warm, supportive environment with great parents. The school provides a lot of fun activities and events which balance out the academics, so my kids really want to go to school. In fact, my children ask to stay for extended day. I love the partnership St. Mark's has with its sister school in Haiti. There is an annual walk that we do to raise funds for the school. The walk lasts as long as the students' daily walk to school. Children raise funds and share information with the Haitian school throughout the year. This and other efforts help to develop empathy. We are not a religious family. My children are culturally Jewish. I do appreciate that this school is Episcopal because I think the church emphasizes kindness and compassion while celebrating differences. Last year the teacher told me proudly that my son had drawn Hanukkah candles on his Christmas tree. She was thrilled. I love that St.Marks is a Pre K to 6th grade program. It gives my children a chance to grow up in a safe and loving environment. It also gives them the opportunity to reinvent themselves for middle school or high school. I would highly recommend this school to others. read more

I will be remiss if I did not post this review. Parents with children of color, please think twice before entrusting your child to this school. Saint Mark's, unfortunately, perpetuates all things that are wrong in today's society. The school lacks patience to deal with families that are different from what is considered "societal norms". Thus, single working parents are misunderstood. Children of color are labeled and misunderstood. And when it becomes too much for this institution to take time to understand your circumstances, your child is asked to leave with a tarnished record. I write this review in the hopes that the school will change its culture, mindset and methodology. I was asked to pay upwards of $30 an hour to have a "helper" follow my child around the school. A privileged child who could afford to pay for this luxury was permitted to stay in the school while my child was asked to leave. Although devastated at the time, I thank God for the challenge and direction. My child is now thriving at another school and is in fact exceeding expectations as he needed guidance, dedication and academic rigor that saint marks could not provide. My recommendation is to shop around and make careful observations. For the money that this school receives, they are part of everything that is wrong in systemic racism that grapples American society today. read more

As a parent at Saint Mark's, I have to respond to the untruths of the previous reviewer. I am definitely a believer of telling both sides of the story, but only with facts. Saint Mark's has never represented itself as progressive. They use textbooks in the classroom and administer standardized tests. They are also very child-centered. The teachers we had went out of their way to structure activities and lessons geared to our children's strengths. Yes, they have ipads and smart boards on campus, but technology is integrated into the curriculum as a teaching tool, rather than shiny toys for display. And, I am sure every teacher would LOVE a relatively large raise each year, but it is simply not the case. The school shows the parent body every year a chart with Saint Mark's teacher's salaries compared to other schools in the area, both private and public. The obvious truth is that our teacher salaries are much lower than our counterparts. Finally, our Head of School has most definitely NOT checked out. She continues to lead Parent Association events to educate the parent body. She meets individually with each of the sixth grade parents during the middle school placement process. She attends grade-level plays and Saint Mark's sporting events. Her devotion to the students here at Saint Mark's has not wavered. Our children have truly thrived here at Saint Mark's! read more

I noticed that the St. Mark's in Upland doesn't have an account on Yelp so I thought I would leave my review on this account. I've gone to St. Mark's since kindergarten and graduated with the class of 2012. My experience at St. Mark's is something that I wouldn't change. The academic program they have is amazing and really prepares your son or daughter for high school. I could only imagine that the St. Mark's in Altadena does the same as well. read more