Putting toddlers in school is always a scary thought, but not at St. Nicholas. I could not have been happier with the experience my older child had in fact, it was so good, that we put our younger child in the day he was eligible to start. The care and warmth that every staff member has at this school are just unmatched. Beyond the immense progress both kids have made, there is also a beautiful community that exists here for parents and kids alike. All of our future plans are centered around the kids being in this school through 8th grade. I truly love it here. read more

I wanted to take a moment to recognize a true hidden gem: St. Nicholas. Our family has had the pleasure of having all three of our children attend this school. Our love for St. Nicholas began about eight years ago when we enrolled our twin daughters at 18 months old, and continued six years later when their little brother joined them. What makes St. Nicholas exceptional starts first and foremost with its community--staff, teachers, and parents alike. Every single person is genuinely invested in the well-being of each child. This isn't just something that's talked about; it's something that's consistently demonstrated. The second major strength is academics. Even at the young age of 18 months, the activities the children engage in are intentionally designed to help them learn and grow. I especially appreciate the early introduction and consistent use of phonics. This foundation has truly helped our children develop strong vocabularies and reading skills. Now, as parents of elementary-aged children, we continue to see the benefits of St. Nicholas's thoughtful academic approach. I greatly appreciate that the school does not over-index on technology as the primary teaching tool. Instead, children are taught essential foundational skills--such as writing, researching, and using glossaries and dictionaries--and then later use technology as a companion, not a substitute. To me, this approach is critical in developing strong critical-thinking skills, which will serve them well throughout life. I also value the principal's leadership, particularly when navigating challenging situations involving student conflicts. Rather than stepping in to resolve issues single-handedly, she partners closely with teachers and empowers them to guide the resolution process. This gives teachers ownership and reinforces a consistent, thoughtful approach to conflict resolution. To round this out with areas for growth, I do wish the school had more playground equipment for younger children, or a slightly larger campus that could accommodate bigger play spaces, such as a field--especially for after-school sports. I would also love to see the return of emotional intelligence courses that were offered a few years ago. Lastly, while I wish there were an easier way for parents to have visibility into homework, I also respect the balance St. Nicholas strikes as children get older--encouraging responsibility, accountability, and natural consequences as part of their learning journey. read more

Our daughter attended this school for several years, but overall the experience did not align with the high cost of tuition. Academically, the program felt mediocre. Students consistently received straight As regardless of effort, with very little homework assigned. There did not seem to be strong expectations for academic rigor or accountability. In some cases, the content itself was questionable, including history lessons that did not appear to be grounded in accurate information. We observed consistent preferential treatment toward students connected to staff or teachers. This was reflected in how situations were managed, with concerns involving these students frequently overlooked or inadequately addressed, including bullying reports. From a staffing standpoint, teachers do not appear to be well compensated. The school relies heavily on older teachers, including some brought out of retirement, and many teachers are former students. Grading was consistently delayed, making it difficult for students to receive timely feedback. Extracurricular activities require additional fees across the board, including sports, yet even basic items like team shirts are not included and must be returned (loaned). The quality of these programs did not justify the cost. For example, a theater program charged several hundred dollars, but the final recording was extremely poor in quality. comparable to a low-effort home video. We also heard multiple accounts from parents and students of unprofessional behavior from the priest, including instances of adults being spoken to inappropriately, with no meaningful follow-up or investigation. Lastly, when we made the decision to withdraw our daughter, we notified the school via email and received no response whatsoever, no acknowledgment, no follow-up, and no attempt to understand why. After years of paying tuition, volunteering, and contributing additional funds, the complete lack of response was not only disappointing but unprofessional and dismissive. Overall, the cost does not match the quality of education, extracurricular offerings, or level of professionalism. read more

As both a proud alumna and now a parent I can wholeheartedly say that St. Nicholas School is truly exceptional. From the moment we drop off our children each morning we feel complete peace knowing they are surrounded by love, care and attentiveness not only from their teachers but also from the administrators, clergy and every member of the school community. The curriculum at St. Nicholas is wonderfully balanced. It is academically rigorous yet filled with a variety of enriching extracurriculars that nurture creativity, leadership and personal growth. The values instilled here go far beyond the classroom shaping confident, compassionate and well rounded children. As someone who once walked these same halls I knew there was no other school I would want my children to attend. The friendships they are forming both among classmates and families are truly lifelong. St. Nicholas School is more than just a place of learning it is a second home and a community built on faith, excellence and love! read more

St. Nicholas isn't just a school, it's a community. Every day when I drop my kids off, I know they're in the hands of educators who care about their success... And not just for the day or their time at the school, but molding them in to productive and contributing members of society. Each year that we have had children at the school, they've continued to improve the grounds, the classrooms and the curriculum. They use teaching methods that have passed the test of time such as hands-on engagement and interactive learning. We truly love the staff! Every teacher puts their heart and soul in to their classrooms every day and it shows by the kids enjoyment of going to school. We also can't say enough good things about the wonderful office administrators, the Greek teacher, the coaches, the art teacher, the music teacher... Everyone! We highly recommend St. Nicholas School. read more

St. Nicholas School provided our daughter with the best education. Our daughter attended St. Nicholas from preschool thru 8th grade. Now in high school, she earned 4.0 GPA and received numerous academic awards after her first year. Her high school teachers ask us what school she came from, because she is so well prepared for higher education. St. Nicholas instructs the the students how to properly study and prepare for an exam, proper grammar skills, a wonderful art and music department, as well as history and science education beyond their grade level. The teachers are dedicated and supportive. The principal and staff are always available. The athletic program, while small, is strong, and the coach teaches the students not only how to hit the ball, but how to truly be a part of a team. When my daughter was diagnosed with diabetes, Mrs. Damato went above and beyond. She researched the disease in order to provide our daughter with the necessary support she needed, as well as to educate the other teachers how to respond to her needs. That meant so much to us and so that she/we would feel comfortable to leave her in their care each day. I can not say enough about the excellent education, staff, facility and program at St. Nicholas School. They truly are a secret gem. read more

My family has been a part of St. Nicholas School for 12 years. Both my children graduated from this special school. This school is ideal for parents looking for small class sizes. The small intimate class environment allows for a lot of individual attention and better learning. It is a true classical Christian education. They pride themselves on their academics. At times it's a very rigorous and heavy work load however the children handle it very well. They learn great discipline from this style and it prepares them for higher education. The school has a a true community feel. You'll be amazed at how the students develop and maintain genuine friendships. You really feel like you're a part of a big family and it feels like a second home. Most importantly they have a stellar religion department. The middle school biblical studies are taught by the Greek Orthodox priests. Your child will build a strong spiritual foundation. Rest assured they will come home inspired and enthused to share with you what they are learning. The class develops the whole person not just academics. They do a great job at cultivating the heart. This part of the school does not disappoint. The solid biblical foundation is the heart of the school. This class inspires the best version of themselves. You can look forward to a strong alumni community. Many generations have attended this school and are still a part of it in one way or another. You will also want to be a part of this community long after your child has graduated. The sports and athletics are one of the fun parts of of this school. They have a great coach. The children respect and admire him. He's really great at inspiring and encouraging their athletic journey. This school is truly a special place. I encourage you to come and find out more. Call the office and talk to Matia. She is the heartbeat of the school. Best of luck to you! read more

Then only good thing to come of Covid is that we sent our two children (4 and 6) to Saint Nicholas! Both HATED going to public school - it was a struggle to get then out of the house every single morning. At St Nicholas, they seem to hate vacation time! The difference in attitude and feeling of just "fitting in right" has been tremendous for us. St Nicholas a created a foundation of God and family in our kids and we couldn't be any happier! read more

I absolutely love this school. My son started at St. Nicholas' Toddler Program in 2016. When I had my second this May, we decided to put them in a child care center so that they could be together. Big mistake. Luckily, we were able to return to St. Nicholas and have our oldest continue in their two year old/preschool program. The teachers are nurturing and kind yet structured and disciplined. At 2.5, my son knows his ABCs, speaks in full sentences, and can count up to 15. There's no academic pressure to learn - the environment they create for the kids is organic and makes them excited to be there. My son actually runs back to the classroom at pick up time because he doesn't want to leave. I'm so grateful for the teachers and administration at St. Nicholas. I'm looking forward to enrolling my youngest in their toddler program for the 2018 school year. read more

St. Nicholas is a hidden gem located in the San Fernando Valley. Everyone is welcome at this school, whether you are Greek or not. When comparing notes with friends and family, who have children at other schools, it became apparent that this school's academic program is head and shoulders above the rest. The teachers are truly engaged and care about the student's academic growth and character. There is no mediocrity here. If you want a superior education for your child you should check it out. read more

I could go on and on about the quality education I received throughout my 10 years at St Nicholas School. I will forever be grateful to my parents for making the decision to send me and my sister to private school, and in particular, St Nicholas. Following the Valley Greek Festival which is held annually on the campus, I was reminded of the friendships and bonds I developed at the school when I reunited with my childhood friends, joking about who was better at the fadeaway jumpers (it was me, of course) However, it's the nurturing environment at St Nicholas that keeps me raving about the school. I grew up here, my values, my ideals, my character, all developed on that campus. I still remember each of my teachers names, their kids names; and each of my classmates names. To the class of 2007, I miss you, and I hope all is well! read more

St Nicholas School has been an inspiration to many who have been blessed to walk its grounds and grow in its classrooms. Founded in the early 70s, I was fortunate enough to have my parents move me and my brother there from public school. St Nicholas help lay the ground work for all of my future schooling. The fact that classroom sizes are small allow for the teacher and student to interact on a more personal level and create an environment ripe for learning and growing. I have found comfort knowing that teachers have long-term educational service to this school. In fact my 2nd grade teach is still teaching there! My wife and I both graduated from here and we have recently had one of our two children graduate (Class of 2020) with top honors from the school. She was accepted to all private schools she applied. Our youngest is a student here as well, excelling in all aspects of this accelerated academic program, which challenges students to work hard and earn their grades. While the course work is challenging, the aspect that separates St Nicholas from other schools is the caring environment provided by the staff and faculty. The honest love of the children, they are entrusted with, is beyond parallel. The safety the campus provides puts us at ease. There are many after school programs the school provides from athletics to additional education. With recently renovated classrooms that have advanced Promethean boards, the teachers are able to reach children still home learning remotely.We have been truly honored to be part of this school and community for the past 45 years. I encourage you to take a campus tour, meet the faculty and see for yourself how St Nicholas can provide the academic and social setting for your child to thrive and feel like they are home. read more

The best school in the valley. My daughter has been there since kindergarten and she loves it. The teachers are very professional and committed to get the best results. Good environment, the lunch service the school offers is one of the healthiest choice around . Teachers are great, all of them very professional and they really care for the kids. I highly recommend the school to anyone who wants their kids to grow confident and develop all their skills. read more

My review will focus only on the Preschool at St. Nicholas School. The preschool is for children 18 months through Pre-K. At each age level, a highly educational curriculum with an emphasis on all aspects of development (cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual) is implemented. The entire preschool staff is dedicated to ensuring that all students are well respected and that their developmental needs are not only being met, but exceeded. There is definitely a "family feel" in the preschool community. A half-day program is offered from 8:00am to 12:30pm. Full-day is 8:00am to 3:00pm. There is also before and after school care. The amazing toddler program offers potty training. St. Nicholas School is truly a beautiful environment for preschool students! I adore this school! read more

Our family started St. Nicholas over 2 years ago with our first child. Now the first child is in 1st grade and our youngest stared the toddler program. We are beyond happy and satisfied with St. Nicholas School. The teachers and administration are wonderful and professional. The academics are so ahead of the average, we could not be more impressed. The school has a such a strong history, making St. Nicholas a well oiled machine. The program builds upon the preschool as it's foundation and carries forward to the elementary ensuring the kids are reading by mid year Kindergarten. They also take security seriously which is another factor that led us to St. Nicholas. One last big thing that truly makes us love and adore where we are, is the community St. Nicholas cultivates. The Boosters are so involved ad they work so hard to support the experience for the students. The Miller Family highly recommends St. Nicholas School. Call to make an appointment for a tour, you will definitely be as impressed as we are. read more

St. Nicholas is our family blessing. My children love attending and we as parents couldn't be happier. It's been a great 4 years and counting. Curriculum is competitive and helps our children be the best they can be and the staff and entire school community is respectful and attentive. We couldn't have asked for a better school family. read more

As as grandma of three Yiayia Olga S I will like to take a minute to praise the academic prospects of the school of St Nicholas.Most of all a teacher Mrs Chobainian This the second time that we had the pleasure to have her as teacher The perfect example of a teacher .Her educational abilities are beyond expectetatios I watched her in the zoom period to take time on the end of the session one to one explained math and analyze science To her students .She is calm always but she have limits and rules she knows how to pulled the positive points out of her students and build their confidence.We are aware how kids can push your limits and thank you of the bottom offer hearts IIdon't think anyone else been touched in such way by a teacher like Our Demetrios With you as a teacher and his effort we maybe see results on his spelling Thank you again for everything you do for our children I felt the need to express my gratitude Olga Semizoglou A grandma of three read more

I am truly thankful for my daughter's education at St. Nicholas. Academically, it is a stand-out school in Los Angeles. In addition to the core subjects, St. Nicholas offers a well-rounded education included classes in music, art, Greek, religion, PE, and computer/technology. Many course offerings are given after hours as well. The yearly academic fair is impressive with students in each grade presenting projects spanning all the subjects. More than anything else, I've been impressed by the teachers who are deeply caring and the emphasis the school focuses on kindness. Students are awarded for good behavior and consideration of others. All the teachers at the school know my daughter's name and are pleasant and glad to see her. I'm thankful for St. Nicholas and the kindness and care extended in the program. read more

The BEST school in the Valley!!!! Our son went all the way through Pre K-8th grade, from there went to Notre Dame high school and UC Davis undergrad. Today he's in medical school on the east coast. He had the best start by us sending him to St. Nicholas School. It's truly the greatest! read more

We have been part of St. Nicholas Church since my parents were married here in 1970. It's home for us and now all of my 3 children attend school here. St. Nicholas is a place where we feel safe and know everyone. The quality of education, the caring teachers and the attending families all make St. Nicholas School the only choice for my 3 girls. read more

St. Nicholas is a school long characterized by its nepotism. After checking the website I can see that many of the teachers that were there when I was a child, are still there or have even moved further up the chain and into administration. When I think back to my childhood, I can easily distinguish the preferential treatment between both students and staff like night and day. I do not have fond memories of this place, and would never recommend this school to anyone who wants their child to have an open-minded learning experience. Class sizes are outrageously small (imagine having an entire grade level of twelve students!), and there is too much attention applied to performing and conducting mediocre "programs" to entertain the parents as opposed to the actual curriculum. The faculty does not take bullying seriously, and will brush your concerns away. Its not about what you can become, its about who does your child know at this school or go to Sunday school with at the church. If you genuinely have interest in this school, make sure you go in and ask questions. Ask about teacher's credentials, continued professional development, and where the children play during recess. Make sure you spend some time doing your own due diligence. read more

Incredibly strong private school for academics, athletics, and a solid Christian moral code that won't break your bank account. This school is so worth it! read more

I enrolled my kids in El Oro followed by Frost. I was "fortunate enough" to have both of them in the accelerated magnet program. Well, aside from the education not being accelerated, the culture of Frost Middle is terrible. There is no sense of community and the values of the students do not align with our family. Thank goodness for St. Nicholas, a place where the academics are strong, actually much stronger than the magnet since it holds students much more accountable, and the culture is even stronger. There are no inflated grade books that assign grades based on completion of simple in-class assignments. Students take rigorous comprehensive midterms and finals, and must study to succeed. Coupled with the strong sense of community and family, parents are at ease when they head to work. I no longer have to worry about the inappropriate comments and advances made on my kids. The families are close knit, and the kids are allowed to remain innocent for just a little longer. I appreciate the attention each student receives at St. Nicholas and I also appreciate the strong athletic program and many after school clubs and activities. It is a joke to even compare this school to Robert Frost, but for families looking for education of the whole student, St. Nicholas is second to none! I highly encourage you to take a tour and check it out! read more

I cannot express my gratitude to every administrator, teacher and staff member at St. Nicholas School for their guidance, Love, support and ability to nurture every student that graces the grounds of St. Nicholas School. I watched my son blossom from a very shy preschooler, to a confident young man with a strong moral character with lifetime friendships, thanks to the St. Nicholas School Community. There is no place like it. Our children are our prized treasures and as parents we ONLY want what's best for them. Choosing a school is a very critical decision in the life of our children. I witnessed both my daughter and son develop both academically and personally into very hard working, respectful, kind young people with a moral compass that is the foundation of their being. I attribute this to the very structured and rigorous work load provided by the curriculum at St. Nicholas, that not only taught them that it takes time and effort to achieve their goals, but that they possess the ability within themselves to reach those goals. I am proud to say, that my two oldest children entered preschool and graduated Jr. High School at St. Nicholas School class of 2017 and 2018. I would not have changed that for anything. It has been a true Blessing. As a mom, I have made lifelong friendships at St. Nicholas School that I cherish to this day. Our children's school years are very important as they navigate this life and develop who they are meant to be. There is no better place than St. Nicholas School. It is more than academics for this mom. It's protecting them and guiding them in a very big world, that has now become a virtual one. I believe, it's ok to know how to write in cursive and if there is compassion, love and a safe place to grow, beautiful souls will blossom. Having two graduates and one 7th grade daughter along with our youngest preschooler attending Saint Nicholas, I am confident that as a family we have made the right choice for all four of our children. For those parents considering Saint Nicholas School for their own children, I can sincerely say that this is the best place for children to learn and grow. It really is a hidden gem in Los Angeles and probably the best kept secret of what it means to be a great school all around ! Having dropped off at preschool, very small still developing young innocent children that only knew their mom and dad and handing them over to their teachers only because we as parents knew this was, what was best for them and it was time to start school. And as we second guess everything we do, because we only want the best for them. I can say that it is the best decision thus far and I have only been amazed watching them go from their ABC's and 123's to Algebra and building their own websites to blossoming into teenagers that we can all be proud of ! Every teacher, administrator, volunteer and staff member modeled what it means to be a kind, responsible, intelligent and compassionate human being and for that we are forever grateful to Saint Nicholas School ! Don't take for granted how quickly our children's school years pass and how important it is we invest in their education that goes way beyond the classroom, but gives them the tools they will need to navigate life. Feeling safe as you drop your children off at school is priceless ! This is what I feel every time I do ! Sincerely, A momma that Loves St. Nicholas School read more

As a St. Nicholas Alumni who's currently graduating UCLA and heading to D.C. for law school, I can honestly say I owe a huge part of my success to St. Nicholas School. Not only did St. Nicholas give me a strong academic foundation, it also aided me in building a strong moral character. No words can express how blessed I'm to have been a part of a wonderful community. The friends I made at St. Nicholas are still my best friends to this day. I can't wait to have children and send them to St. Nicholas so they to can feel the warmth, love, and happiness the St. Nicholas community has given me. read more

St. Nicholas' relatively high tuition does NOT, in our opinion, give children the competitive education you are promised. If we had the chance to do it again, here are some of the questions we would ask before considering St. N's elementary and/or middle school: Which teachers are currently credentialed? How many hours of continuing education do they receive each month? How often do children go to the computer lab and what is taught? What is the condition of the school? [Take a look at the bathrooms.] What are the expectations if my child is a non-Greek speaker? [Mandatory Greek is taught by grade-level NOT by knowledge level; the teacher does NOT individualize.] Are there other languages taught? Where do kids play at recess and lunch? [The parking lot-no basketball hoops but gravel and uneven ground.] Is there a nurse on campus? Are there after school sports; how are kids transported? Why does enrollment continue to decline? Why does school start later than other schools? Is the principal responsive to parents' concerns? Are there any current parents on the St. Nicholas School Board, and how do complaints reach the board? read more

My two children go to St. Nicholas for the past three years. I have my daughter currently in Kindergarten and my son in 5th grade. We cannot be more thankful of the excellent and outstanding academic program at St. Nicholas Elementary school. We are so pleased and honored to be a member of the beautiful St. Nicholas family. An amazing and distinguished program, a very well developed curriculum that goes above and beyond CA standards and common cores. My son, just recently got accepted into gifted/highly gifted magnet program for middle school and I'm proud to say his high academic achievements are significantly aimed by the exceptional education and guidance he has received at St. Nicholas in the past three years. A family friendly, safe environment with outstanding educational program that serves the community of San Fernando Valley wholeheartedly. If you are looking for a preschool and elementary school, St. Nicholas is the place to be! Highly recommended. May god always flourish St. Nicholas with blessings and grace. read more