William G. Paden Elementary School

Paden is a gem of a school and one I truly wish we could have stayed with. The principal, Drew Sarratore, went above and beyond for our family in the short time we were able to attend. We came into the school with a PG kid, looking for extreme accommodations to match her learning needs. Mr. Sarratore did no bat an eyelash at our suggestions, instead he worked with us to find the best solution for our child in relation to what resources were available at his school. I can’t tell you how refreshing it is to have a school administrator listen to you (the parent) about your child’s needs and respect that while you may not be a professional educator, your opinion of what is best for your child is of great value in the decision making process. Mr. Sarratore listened to our thoughts, offered tremendous resources, including testing, and personal observations, experimenting with different classrooms, etc... Most importantly, he followed up with us every step of the way. Caring communication on a “daily!!” basis was incredibly comforting during this process. Mr. Sarratore is extremely professional, energetic, creative and fun! He is a rarity in the industry and Alameda is very fortunate to have him. Every morning he invites the entire school community (including parents) to join in an uplifting warm-up to the day which includes fun music, dancing and humor, right before giving morning announcements. Keep in mind the backdrop to the campus is a stunning view of the marina. We’re from NYC so perhaps others take this for granted. It’s really quite special. Everyone walks into school with a smile. What better way to start the day! I should also mention that the staff as a whole are exceptionally warm and inviting. Sue, the office manager is so friendly and upbeat. She is great with the kids and parents. Absolutely beats the mean school secretary stereotype. We of course cannot speak for every teacher in the school but my daughter loved Mrs. Kitrena Swanson. Ultimately our daughter wasn’t able to stay due to space issues in grade placement, however, we would move back in a heartbeat if a seat opened up.

Overall my experience as a PARENT at Paden has been Neutral. I see there is some room to grow, but it's going to take some real commitment from the SCHOOL BOARD (AUSD) and from all of us PARENTS TOO! I think this could be a great school, but it has the potential to fall from good graces as well from my standpoint. I am actively looking at other schools but don't want to move my student without a "sure thing" environment. Effectively this is a place of complacency not ideology.

We have loved our experience at Paden. The school is academically challenging, with a progressive approach to homework and dedicated, effective teachers (including an award-winning librarian). I love their recognition of the importance of play in educational development (rather than just teaching to get to certain test scores, like many schools in town). I also love the innovative learning plan, focus on the development of character and life skills, and the amazingly diverse community. Our students learn to celebrate their diversity; and with this experience, they will be ready to be future citizens and leaders in a diverse world. I couldn't ask for a better learning environment for my children.

Paden is a great school- academically challenging, supportive, and diverse. It exemplifies the best of the Bay Area with its rich culture, full of educational opportunities (with fun school traditions around math, music and PE), and imparts the importance of community and stewardship.