Sunnyside Elementary School

Sunnyside Elementary School is a small neighborhood school with a diverse student body and a focused, hardworking staff. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive education that will develop students who are well prepared to succeed in the complex society of the 21st century. We believe that every child must get what he or she needs academically, socially, and emotionally in order to succeed. This will not be equal, as each child has his or her own specific needs, and will require being stimulated, supported, and challenged at different levels and in different ways in order to be successful. At Sunnyside, we encourage students to enjoy coming to school, be prepared to work, and actively participate in their own learning. We encourage students to take school seriously and do their best. We believe the classroom should be a place where students feel excited, self-motivated, and curious about the world. We want our students to feel safe taking chances, and to bounce back from frustrations. We help them become capable problem-solvers and effective team players.

Our program develops and challenges students' brains while also nurturing their sense of caring, compassion, and responsibility. We believe that the arts, as well as solid academics, develop well-rounded citizens. In addition to our diverse classroom teaching techniques, we offer positive programs and activities that build confidence and self-esteem such as reading buddies, student council, attendance incentives, cross-grade buddies, safety patrol, compost monitors, and monthly Spirit Day assemblies. We maintain frequent and friendly communication with families through daily interactions, newsletters, parent meetings, email, parent conferences, and other means. We use the Caring Schools Community program in all classes. We welcome parents and families as partners with the school to help all students achieve personal success.