My name is Yadira Montesdeoca. I am the proud mother of two Rowe Elementary scholars – a ten-year-old a son and a six-year-old daughter. My decision to send my children to Rowe Elementary School was one of the best choices I have ever made for my children’s education.

Before we moved to Rowe Elementary, my children attended a small district public school – it wasn’t even 350 students! It was a good school. The teachers were thoughtful and were truly concerned about how each of their students were progressing emotionally and academically. Teachers and other staff members knew every child’s name and some staff continue to check in on us today.

This school, as warm as it was, did not support our family in ways that we needed it most. For example, there were no after school or summer programs for my children to participate in while I had to work.

Then, I learned about Rowe Elementary School. While I studied for my own degree, I was placed at Rowe for an internship in their IT department and they eventually hired me on full-time. After seeing the high academic standards, resources to support families, and encouraging school culture,  I made the decision to move my children to attend school there – and I always encourage others to do the same!

The foundation of a Rowe Elementary education is their strong academics. To be honest, the transition from our district school to Rowe Elementary was tough! In the middle of last summer, I announced to my children that I signed them up to attend Rowe and that summer reading would start immediately! After a few weeks with the new structure, heightened expectations, and opportunities outside of school, my children are secure and thriving. Classes here are not all about sitting still and listening to a teacher lecture. My children spend their day learning from a teacher and each other. They make learning fun.

They have a number of support resources for families. The before and after-school programs are incredibly helpful. Enthusiastic school staff is there as early as 6:30am. We usually arrive at school for breakfast at 8:10. Because I work at the school, we stay as late as 5:00pm. There are always programs going on for scholars and families.

 One of the greatest things about being a part of the Rowe Elementary community is that they treat every student and parent as if we are all a part of a big family. Whenever anyone needs anything, no matter how small, just ask and you’re helped! We all take care of each other. For scholars, the school also runs weekly Community Circles. This is a fun opportunity to celebrate scholars’ hard work and good behavior as well as listen to inspirational speakers. Parents are always welcome to attend. It’s great for us parents to get to know the culture of Rowe.