Mt. Everest Academy
San Diego, CA 92117
Phone: (619) 605-8700
Fax: (858) 496-8797
District: San Diego Unified School District
GreatSchools Rating
public • Grades KG,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 • 232 students
Mt. Everest Academy, a public school located in San Diego, CA, serves grades K-12 in the San Diego Unified School District.It has received a GreatSchools Rating of 9 out of 10, based on a variety of school quality measures.
Mt. Everest Academy is a public school located in San Diego, CA. 232 students attend Mt. Everest Academy.
School Ratings
| Category | Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test Scores | 10/10 | The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) data from California Department of Education, and using 2025 California Science Test data from California Department of Education. |
| College Readiness | 10/10 | The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using 2019 SAT percent college ready data from California Department of Education, using 2019 Average ACT score data from California Department of Education, using 2019 ACT percent college ready data from California Department of Education, using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2025 4-year high school graduation rate data from California Department of Education, using 2025 Percent of students who meet UC/CSU entrance requirements data from California Department of Education, and using 2025 demographic data from California Department of Education. |
| Student Growth | 6/10 | The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from California Department of Education. |
Posted: January 22, 2026
This school is amazing, I have been here since I was in second semester of 8th grade, I'm now a senior about to graduate. The staff is so supportive and I feel that because of the small class size I could know all of the staff amazingly, the counselor and principal know all of the students by name and are amazing with helping with anything you need. I have only had one problem with another student at this school and the staff handled it immediately and effectively. This is an amazing education and experience as a school, with tight nit groups of students (without being clicky) and caring staff.
Posted: January 22, 2026
Posted: January 22, 2026
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Posted: July 26, 2024
My girls (kindergarten and 3rd) have had an absolutely amazing experience at MEA. We came from a small private school, and while both girls had been doing fine, they are thriving at MEA. They love their friends and teachers, and are now genuinely excited to learn. Their curiosity has returned and we couldn't be happier.
Posted: July 26, 2024
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Posted: October 17, 2023
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Posted: October 17, 2023
This school is independent study, so you will be learning a lot on your own. If you only try to complete the assigned work, without trying to learn the material, you will not learn it. Being able to take classes at Mesa College is super great for learning higher-level math or other subjects. The teachers here are all quite nice. It feels like they all want you to succeed. If you explain your situation, they're likely to understand and they are understanding of mental health. There is a mental health club on campus which you can go to. Additionally, there is a GSA. While the school is independent study, there is a close-knit community of people if you make an effort to be on-campus and participates in clubs/other extracurriculars. From what I have seen, there is effectively no discrimination or bullying on campus. In terms of family engagement, it is more heavily emphasized in elementary and middle school than in high school. The expectation is that by the time you are in high school, you will be able to seek the resources you need on your own. Overall, Mount Everest has been a great school for me. I have learned how to manage my time to finish work and been able to take a variety of classes both at Mount Everest and at Mesa College. There is a good community here and the teachers are approachable. I would highly recommend it.
Posted: May 22, 2022
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Posted: May 22, 2022
I write this as a reflection of our (student and parent) years at Mt. Everest. This is an independent study school, a totally different approach to regular public, charter or for that matter private schooling. My child came to this school in 5th grade; transferred from a private school. She is now a senior, graduating in a few weeks and will be attending a 4 year university in the fall.
Our experience during the 8 years at this school has been nothing but exemplary. The entire staff all work together to ensure the success of each student that attends. The teachers are a big reason for the success of the kids. I have never had a time where help wasn't offered if needed. The principal ALWAYS returns emails or phone calls the same day. Reading other students reviews, although opinions are just that, I found that being an independent learning school, what you put into it is what you'll get out of it. Traditional homework isn't a part of this school. By traditional I mean that you work in school, then get extra work to do at home. All work is done at home so it isn't "extra" homework. I didn't understand the "busy homework" comment. Due to this concept, the students must learn how to demonstrate time management skills or they'll be lost in this school. Parents must assist until the student gets the hang of it. This is a needed skill in all future endeavors like higher education or a work environment. In my thoughts, it's an invaluable lesson to learn. *During quarantine, this school took no time off, transition was easy, the students lost no learning time at all!*
This school is a peaceful community, with lots of extracurricular activities. There are no sports team programs here. But with the time management skills learned, sports not affiliated with schools is definitely doable. My student is an athlete who never missed a practice or competition due to school. The school definitely supports this type of "time off needed" and will work with you to make sure there is a school/life balance. I have never witnessed an type of bullying or drug use. In fact, I have seen nothing but acceptance of all students. Friendships are not easy to make at this school since they don't attend classes everyday. The key to this, join one of the clubs. Drama, chess, ASB, music, etc. All will allow the students time with the others to make great friends.
If I had to do it again, I'd have my kid attend this school. No regrets AT ALL!
Posted: May 5, 2020
My child struggles with severe separation anxiety and depression since he came out as Transgender last October. Mr. Zappala and Courtney have been working with me regarding Gabriel's 504 plan and communicating with his teachers to make sure they are all on the same page. This is extremely important in regards to what is required of him on a tier in order to achieve a passing grade. They understand he doesn't hear and see their teaching as every other child in their class.
Posted: May 5, 2020
My child says that all the students have been nice.
Posted: May 5, 2020
It's been a little hectic since we just transferred in February but I am confident the bumps with any change are in the past. Come next year we should be sailing smoothly.
Mr. Zappala and I have communicated and are both on the same page in making sure we are all doing what is best for Gabriel at this time.
Posted: May 5, 2020
The requirement of daily homework is feasible verses Correia Junior High. Dana and Correia gave way too much homework. Kids need to be able to enjoy life outside of being in school all day.
Posted: May 5, 2020
Mr. Cate is definitely a great teacher who empathizes with our situation. My child struggles with severe anxiety and depression. Mr. Cate was very supportive when Gabriel was having a bad day with a panic attack. It means a lot to me as a mother to know he has support when Mr. Zappala is not available.
Posted: May 5, 2020
Upon my sons first day the teachers made sure another student took him around so he wouldn't feel alone. All the students are mature and respect one another.
Posted: May 5, 2020
I appreciate how interactive Mr. Zappala and Courtney have been assuring me my child will progress considering our personal situation. The fact that I can email one of them and know they will get back to me in a timely manner is absolutely crucial for confirming we made the right choice transferring to MEA.
Posted: October 13, 2019
We have been an MEA family from late elementary thru 10th grade now and can't imagine going anywhere else. As a parent I have seen my child succeed and fail many times with this curriculum. It's NOT easy by any means. That being said, you get out of it what you put into it. Having read the reviews from other students/parents, I can understand each one of them.
This school is run as a "packet" school. Meaning that each month, each class is given assignments for the month that must be completed on the assigned date. By doing it this way, the students have to manage their time effectively (sometimes with parental monitoring, if need be) in order to have the "flexibility to pursue their passion". This is a great learning opportunity for success in the future as well as now.
At the due dates, testing is proctored by the teacher for each class. If I was going to find a fault with this curriculum (or maybe it's this school) this would be it. All the testing is done in the same week. I'm sure there's a reason for it, but in my opinion, it causes a lot of stress! Like I said, we've be doing this for awhile, but at our house, when I feel the stress level go up, then I know what week it is. I will give one caveat, if extra time is needed due to other circumstances (i.e. competitions, work/volunteer work, special performances, illness, etc.) accommodations can be made in advance. The teachers are awesome!
This is a very small, diverse school and it certainly isn't for everyone. The whole family has to want it. I have been on campus many times and have never heard any vulgarities. Nor have a heard of any students showing disrespect to the teachers. The teachers I am sure wouldn't hesitate to consult with the parents and principal about inappropriate conduct. This isn't your local neighborhood school. The family signs a code of conduct at the beginning of the year with the express understanding that any rules broken will be cause for disciplinary action.
The counselor and principal are extremely involved with the students, teachers and parents. They want the best for the kids here. They are extremely knowledgeable and always get back with you if you have any questions.
Take a tour of the school. Shadow a class. Talk to the parents that have been here awhile. Most of all, know your child!
Posted: September 20, 2019
Our experience has been more than great. We have been at this school for several years and we have had great support from the teachers and the principal. I have to disagree with the students below. The students who haven't learned a thing probably don't know that this is an independent study program. The teachers guide you but most of the learning is done by the student. So unless you are a good independent learner, I agree, you are better off elsewhere. If you like a small school, tight community, responsible students and don't want to deal with bullying, drugs etc. then this is your place. This is not a school where you can just put up your legs up and not do anything. A certain amount of work is expected so sorry for the soccer playing boy who couldn't attend practice because he had to do some school work. During all those years at MEA I haven't heard a single student cussing neither on campus nor in the library etc. Whenever I go to the library all I see are kids studying and it is ALWAYS quiet. I think it's best if you visit the school, visit the library and talk to the people on site to get a better picture. Don't solely rely on reviews.
Posted: September 20, 2019
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Posted: May 26, 2019
Posted: May 26, 2019
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Posted: May 26, 2019
I've been going to Mt. Everest Academy practically all my life, and I do it admit it is a great school, until you get to the older grades. The elementary part is great! I loved my childhood at Mt Everest Academy, but the middle and high school of it are horrible! Most students have no respect and go around cussing all the time. The only part of middle school I enjoyed at Mt. Everest Academy is the teachers and the light load of homework. Otherwise, unless your willing to deal with rather unkind students with no respect for teachers and others, I wouldn't choose this school.
Posted: May 26, 2019
Posted: December 17, 2018
So overall this school is OKAY because I do have more time (on the weekends only) to do something other than WORK ALL THE TIME!! But usually, I don't have time at all. I've even had to skip soccer practices just to do the stupid busy work they assign. Also, when I first came here, I thought I would make a lot of friends, but it's actually hard to make friends because all the kids there already knew each other for a really long time and they're not really accepting new people into their friend group. Also, there's like a group of "popular kids" (that actually would NOT be popular if they went to a normal school) that are kind of annoying because some of them don't do their work and just sit at a table watching youtube or something and laughing REALLY LOUD (like I can hear them from the library, and it's really distracting) and then always complain at the end of the month that they have SO MUCH work to do! (Well who's fault is that)
Also, those kids sometimes go into the library (already towards the month) to do all that work that they haven't done, but they don't actually do the work, they just sit around watching stuff on their phone and laughing super loud (in the library). It's extremely annoying, and I have to get up and ask the librarian to tell them to shut up. Then even when she does, they are quiet for 5 seconds (at the most) and then start laughing again. The librarian has to tell them at least 4 times to be quiet, and still they don't listen. So that's the issue with respect in this school. Then eventually they leave because they're late for class or something.
The one thing I do like is that most of the teachers are really nice and will answer questions. There's one thing for you, Mt. Everest. Oh, and don't think that you'll get to sleep in or anything. (That's what I thought). You still have to be there in time for class, unless you just don't go (which you are allowed to do, except for Biology class, which you aren't allowed to skip in high school), but then you still have to work at home (even if you're sick!) or you'll fall reallyyy behind. So yeah good luck if you go to this school, you're not going to like it just saying.
Posted: December 17, 2018
Way too much homework. I go to high school here and I thought I would have a lot more time, but it's actually the opposite: I'm extremely stressed with all the homework, and most of it is busywork.
Posted: December 17, 2018
Some of the teachers are good, but some don't even teach you and just talk about other stuff with the kids during class.
Posted: December 17, 2018
Integrity: Not really, because I know a lot of kids that cheat on tests, and when there's take-home quizzes, they just look up the answers on the internet.
Compassion: Not really, because there's not enough people in this school, so I'm not really sure how compassion would work...?
Respect: Now this is a problem. A lot of the kids are really obnoxious during class, like for example in my German class. One day the teacher printed out the wrong worksheet, and was going to go print the correct one out and one of the kids called him a "silly goose" or something like that. A lot of the kids challenge the teachers and it's quite annoying because it wastes a lot of class time.
Posted: December 17, 2018
In normal schools, ASB people come into the classrooms and talk to the kids about what's going on. In this school, I'm not even sure if there is an ASB. If there is, then I've never seen anyone do anything or remind people to do anything.
Posted: December 17, 2018
Probably yes, because there's so much "help" (supposedly) at this school.
Posted: December 17, 2018
I'm not really sure, because I've never been bullied here (yet) or witnessed bullying, but I think that the staff SHOULD at least resolve conflicts, since there's only like 200 something students there LOL
Posted: May 2, 2018
Yes, if there is any case of bullying, the staff immediately jumps in to stop and solve the bullying.
Posted: May 2, 2018
I would say that overall this is a great school. But one of the main problems my child had at this school was Spanish. Learning a new language is very hard, and only having class once a week is very hard. My child did all of his Spanish at this school and we regretted it. He had two different Spanish teachers for his two years of Spanish. After his first year of Spanish, the teacher retired. But his next teacher was not a better experience. I would recommend that if you do take Spanish while attending this school, take it outside of the school until Spanish 5,6.
Posted: May 2, 2018
Yes, they sometimes give a pacing guide for the kids to follow to finish their homework on time.
Posted: May 2, 2018
There are some teachers whose classes your child should always go to. My student had Mr. Greenwood and Mr. Huy and we highly recorded to never miss their classes if possible. But there are also some teachers who are just not a right fit for how this school works.
Posted: May 2, 2018
Yes, one of the main reasons why my student loves this schools is because there is little to no bullying at this school. Almost all the kids get along with each other, but like every school there are some exceptions.
Posted: May 2, 2018
Posted: May 2, 2018
I don't know very much about this due to the fact that my child hasn't needed to use these resources.
Posted: December 2, 2017
Our experience at Mt. Everest Academy was incredible. After a year at a different district school, we transferred to Mt. Everest and didn't look back. The staff is incredibly caring and helpful-the librarian even kept a book series that been donated for my child because she remembered how much my child enjoyed the books. Ever teacher goes to great lengths to ensure the children are progressing at every level. I felt at home and my kids felt very secure and confident to go to school and participate in the activities. The principal is also incredibly involved and helpful. We are moving far away, and the only thing I will truly miss is this school. It is like a family and every child feels the support. We leave with full hearts and positive experiences.
Posted: December 2, 2017
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Posted: June 14, 2017
Our daughter transferred to Mt. Everest Academy part way through high school after attending a different school in the San Diego Unified School District. We were looking for a school with less social pressure and stress. What we found was a very caring and academically-rigorous environment, led by an incredible principal, Courtney Browne. The Mt. Everest approach at the high school level is more akin to college: the students have to take responsibility for managing their own learning, but in exchange they are treated as mature beings, and given the freedom to learn in their own style. It's a small community, and there are some things that the school simply can't do or offer, compared with the larger high schools in the district (e.g. on-campus athletics). But Mt. Everest is able to offer a surprisingly wide range of advanced classes and extracurriculars. The administration and counseling are top-notch. As for the original reason for the transfer--to get away from social pressures that were getting in the way of learning and growth--we couldn't be happier with how things turned out. This is a place where students are accepted and supported, and in turn they learn to accept and support each other. And in this environment, many of the teachers are able to truly inspire their students, many of whom go on to attend very selective colleges. Mt. Everest is not for everybody, but for certain types of students, it's a really great school.
Posted: June 14, 2017
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Posted: June 12, 2017
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Posted: June 12, 2017
We are so glad to have discovered this great school. Our child was struggling at the very highly rated middle school in out district. We transferred him to MEA just before his spring break. And he loves it. He loves taking more control over his education... He is highly capable of pacing his schoolwork and completing the assignments on time. So, now, he loves school, wants to go to the weekly study groups, and overall has increased his interest in learning in a positive way. As a result, we have more time to schedule days where we can do "field trips" to the local museums, attractions and other activities our great city offers. The only caveat is that it is really necessary for a parent to be home full time to help, at least for the younger students. I highly recommend this school if your child is self motivated and has good study habits. The teachers, staff and principal are all terrific, and are there for you when you need it.. We love our child's new attitude and love for school. He loves the flexibility and we do too. And learning how to do the work without constantly being monitored on campus is a skill that will be so useful in the future. We love it.
Posted: May 29, 2017
Posted: May 29, 2017
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Posted: May 29, 2017
Our daughter has attended MEA for the past three years (6th, 7th, and 8th grade). It has been an excellent experience. In 5th grade, we couldn't find a public middle school that was a good fit for her (private school was not an option). We needed a middle school that was safe, had a positive atmosphere, had challenging academics, offered foreign languages, and could accommodate our daughter's advanced math skills. We came up empty handed. The middle schools did not have what we needed and, frankly, the administrators we talked to were not helpful. We scheduled a visit to MEA. Then principal Mike Rood and then counselor Ethel Lapham were friendly and sympathic from the beginning. They said our daughter could take the foreign language class (she had attended a language immersion school for 3 years) and the math class at the level she was capable of handling. If the level of either class proved to easy or too difficult after the school year began, it could easily be changed. We were shocked. It all seemed too good to be true. Well, three years later we can say that it wasn't too good to be true. Our daughter has had a wonderful time at MEA and has thrived both socially and academically. The current principal, Courtney Browne, and current counselor, Ron Zappala are just as caring and flexible as their predecessors. We love Ms. Browne's message of instilling "grit" in students and we love Mr. Zappala's efforts to ensure that all students are more than ready for college. MEA is an absolute gem and a secret treasure within SDUSD. Our daughter has made good friends and we have met some nice families. Independent study is different, but is a very efficient and flexible way to do school. In addition to class subject matter, your child will learn self-discipline and how to really organize their time. One thing to be aware of: many people do not understand independent study. Homeschooling families sometimes scoff because MEA uses the state-approved curriculum (and not a private or religious curriculum). Families with kids in traditional schools will assume that you are homeschooling. None of that matters! If independent study is a good fit for your child and your family, go for it. Ms. Browne, Mr. Zappala, and the teachers at MEA are so supportive. We are incredibly grateful that MEA exists and are happy our daughter has had such a good middle school experience there.
Posted: May 29, 2017
Posted: May 24, 2017
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Posted: May 24, 2017
This has been a great school. The flexibility has allowed us to work more on areas of weaknesses and to find more challenging activities for areas of strength. His reading has improved more than 2 grade levels in just 1 year while here. And, the counselors, staff, principal and teachers are all fantastic and really individualize things for the students. We have been to several schools, and this one is a KEEPER!!!!
Posted: May 19, 2017
Very happy student! Engaging and intense, but also friendly and very supportive. Great leadership. Exceptional teachers. Very smart students.
Posted: May 19, 2017
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Excellent academics, outstanding and dedicated teachers and administration. Professional and enthusiastic counselor. Very rigorous academic curriculum coupled with focus on individual needs and potential of each student. Welcoming and nurturing community.
Posted: January 30, 2017
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Posted: January 30, 2017
The teachers and staff our quite supportive. The campus environment is safe and students can relax and learn. Teachers actually want the students to succeed which was missing from our previous school. Thank you Mt. Everest!
Posted: October 18, 2015
I can't say enough positive things about the teachers at this school. They are the best you could hope for!
Posted: October 18, 2015
There really isn't "homework" as with other schools. The majority of studies are completed at home and turned in on a monthly basis. It really eliminates the "busy work" that other schools mandate for the students.
Posted: October 18, 2015
I think the teachers respect the students. They understand them and treat them all fairly. I believe the students here have learned by example and are exactly the same way.
Posted: October 7, 2015
I feel the majority of the teachers are fantastic and do a great job of utilizing their study groups effectively. A few are not necessarily the best teacher for the subject due to lack of organization or personality. This is true for just about any school.
Posted: October 7, 2015
Because of the format of this school there really isn't homework, as all work is "home" work. Instead of sitting in a classroom all day, 5 days a week, they have study groups once a week for 1 hour and 15 minutes. During this time, they review troublesome subjects, do labs, have discussions, etc. Then they go home or work at the school to complete the work and become fluent in the subject and test monthly.
Posted: October 7, 2015
The students work together when the opportunity calls for it, but I am not aware of any instances of plagiarism or cheating. The grading seems to be standard for all students without bias or favoritism.
Posted: October 7, 2015
This is our first year at MEA, although we have been homeschooling and homeschool chartering for 10 years. I have children in 7th and 9th. This is the best of both worlds as far as I am concerned. You have the freedom of learning at home, with study group sessions at the school. The children have the ability to learn at the their own pace, but still have time lines that need to be met.... isn't that like life, work and college?? Not every student is an over achiever here, but the campus has a very college bound feel. In fact it really feels like a college campus. Students coming and going, teachers moving about campus, studying on the grass, etc.
My children and I are very happy with the teachers and the offerings of the school. The support for parents is growing and the support for the students is top notch.
Posted: May 23, 2015
Posted: May 23, 2015
Posted: May 23, 2015
We've had a positive experience at MEA. This is our third year. We come from a homeschooling background and this has been a nice addition to our kids' education. Definitely worth checking out if you think a mix of homeschooling/traditional school could be a good fit for your child.
The school offers the usual state textbooks and worksheets, but there is a lot of flexibility to do what you want at the elementary level and a good bit at the middle school level (though the optional once-a-week classes are more useful in middle school if following similar curriculum at home). I've been impressed with the high school teachers and think many teens could benefit from the freedom and responsibility MEA provides.
I find it to be a positive, tolerant, and encouraging environment. A big thanks to the teachers, staff, and families that share their love of learning at Mt. Everest Academy!
Posted: June 5, 2014
My daughter is finishing her 2nd year (8th grade) at this school. Enrolling her at Mt Everest was the best thing we ever did. She can progress at her pace, especially in math where she is 1 year ahead. She learns much more on her own at home than she would be by sitting in a classroom everyday for 6 hours. One day of study group with the teachers and others kids is plenty. She is learning to work independently and howt avoid procrastination. The teachers are great, very supportive and always available when they are not teaching. The school offers a lot of extracurricular activities, field trips, performances, etc... We are hoping she can stay at the school until she finishes high school. However, there is no magic: if your kid is not motivated, doesn't work well independently, especially for higher grades, a more traditional school is better. We tried it first for a couple of months before making the jump.
Posted: March 13, 2014
Amazing parent involvement and seriously' the best of both worlds, homeschooling with all the support from the teachers!
Posted: October 23, 2013
If you are looking for the best of both worlds, look no further. The staff is extremely supportive for your home schooling efforts and really come alongside you to assist and encourage you. The class size is unbeatable and with having freedom to use my own chosen curriculum (for younger grades), I can't complain. As long as we are working hard and meeting standards, we are given all the choices a regular home schooling family could want. The only difference is you get a regular group of kids to meet with and they are taught by certified elementary teachers who know how to teach and what best practices are out there. That with the combined elective choices and free resources- MT Everest is hard to beat. I love seeing the principal walking around campus engaging in the student body and parents every time I'm there. It's hard to imagine putting my kids in a regular school after doing this one. Visiting is what sold me, and although I'd love to keep it a secret, I have to be honest and say as a former teacher- this school is amazing! You just have to see it in action to believe it.
Posted: September 2, 2013
My school is amazing. In my ten years of school, I have been to eight different schools, always returning to this one. I'm a student, and I think this is a good school for kids with initiative. The teachers expect a lot from us, and it's hard. But for people like me, with a want to learn as much as I can and get into a good college, it's perfect. It's not at all anti-social, in fact we are better speakers than most other kids. I think that people leave our school because they feel they are not getting enough support. Bu the teachers will help anyone who wants it, as long as they ask. My history and English teachers are amazing, and I wouldn't leave this school for anything.
Posted: December 2, 2012
Good and bad... This is our first year here and my child is in kindergarten. The pros are they offer in-person classes and activities for those wanting their child to have a social outlet. The families are great and it's almost like a mini private school, but free! The campus is nice and clean and the playgrounds are nice for those with younger siblings. The cons are the teachers can be a bit disorganized and a lot of the curriculum was unavailable at the start of the year. We were left to fill in the blanks ourselves. Also, for those who want a true homeschool experience in which you choose what to teach, that isn't really the case here. You're handed a HUGE stash of books and work pages and expected to turn in this stuff at the end of each month. You can supplement your own materials for extra learning, but when it comes down to it your student is still a public school student and you're obligated to teach what they think your child should know. Also, you're still subject to public school rules and regulations. For some this isn't a big issue, but if you want true freedom of homeschool you shouldn't choose this school. Overall, great place though.
Posted: November 14, 2012
Is this the school for you? Hello, I too know what it's like to spend countless hours on this website.. trying desperately to find the *RIGHT* school for your little ones. This will help those that are considering starting/continuing homeschooling. Okay, so here it goes. I HIGHLY recommend this school for children in grades K-4th. The teachers for these grades are great, attentive, personable, and flexible. Your kids will make good friendships here and the teachers work with you. They become your good friends. Now.. For kids in middle school, there are lots of expectations, which make for a stressful learning experience. Which honestly robs the job of homeschooling that you desired to have in the first place. No curriculum options (Just one type provided). Trying to plan lessons, that align with the teachers expectations are just.. confusing. High School? Forget it. I have NO idea how the high school parents do it. I did however.. notice that most those that have high school students.. only have one child. Maybe two at the most. That must be how they do it. For those of you that have more children.. anything past 4th grade.. I'd look at other options to keep your joy and sanity. :)
Posted: October 8, 2012
This is our first year here. I only wish I would have known about it long ago. My son is in 10th grade. He has the option of doing one school subject at a time versus all subjects at once. This gives him more time to focus and build upon what he has already learned as the weeks go by. Work load is handed at the beginning of the month. Due at the end of the month. All the resources are made available to you either on campus or online through their website. 1-3 (optional) classes available during the week depending on grade level. Homework help also available apart from the regular classes. Great 1on1 assistance. The staff is super friendly. Principal Reed is wonderful and fully engaged in every aspect of his school. You can tell he cares about his students, staff and parents. The kids my son has befriended show pride in attending there. Lots of school spirit. I love that it still offers fieldtrips, events on and off campus, and lots of interactions. Many electives available. My son is dually enrolled in another near by school to attend an elective not offered at Mt Everest with no problems. The best of both worlds. Sack lunches also provided. Even got my own 'Teacher' Id card.
Posted: September 11, 2012
This is our third year at MEA. The pros: Terrific office staff Clean campus Conscientious and for the most part fabulous teachers Modern computer lab and net books in class rooms Promethean technology Fun music program Counseling and therapeutic help is excellent Cons: Ridiculos work load (math) wait till you see the books and curriculum. I drive my kids to have an actual class and the teacher doesn't teach but tells the kids to study for a test... ? That's what they do at home. This happened a lot last year. Maybe better this time around. Students are often allowed to be loud, rude and obnoxious during the precious class time.. I understand some of that but come on. -------------- Ok, here it is, the classes this year are huge. Way bigger than the last couple of years. 12 kids in a class last year has turned into 26 kids. I was attracted to this place because of its small size. Now? I'll wait and see
Posted: June 1, 2012
My daughter is ending her first year at MEA as a high school student and couldn't be happier. The teachers she had this year have been outstanding. It's a very special school and I'm so glad we discovered it, it's been a perfect fit for her. My son has been at a traditional public high school and I feel that MEA's academics are above and beyond a tradional school. Thank you MEA!
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spectrum Center Blvd, Kearny Mesa | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 2.9 mi | |
| 2 | Riverfront Condominium Rentals | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 4 mi | |
| 3 | Canyon View | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 4.6 mi | |
| 4 | Mission Hills | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 5 mi | |
| 5 | Ocean Beach | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 6.4 mi | |
| 6 | The Heritage | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 7 mi | |
| 7 | Del Cerro | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 7.3 mi | |
| 8 | City Heights | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 7.5 mi | |
| 9 | Apartment | Apartment Complex | Coronado | CA | 8.8 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University City | San Diego | CA | 2.9 mi | |
| 2 | Serra Mesa | San Diego | CA | 3.4 mi | |
| 3 | Old Town | San Diego | CA | 4.5 mi | |
| 4 | Old Town San Diego | San Diego | CA | 4.7 mi | |
| 5 | Mission Hills | San Diego | CA | 4.9 mi | |
| 6 | La Jolla | La Jolla | CA | 5.3 mi | |
| 7 | Loma Portal | San Diego | CA | 5.6 mi | |
| 8 | Kensington | San Diego | CA | 5.9 mi | |
| 9 | North Park | San Diego | CA | 6.4 mi | |
| 10 | Broadway Pier | San Diego | CA | 7.2 mi | |
| 11 | Del Cerro | San Diego | CA | 7.4 mi | |
| 12 | Gaslamp Quarter | San Diego | CA | 7.6 mi | |
| 13 | Seaport Village | San Diego | CA | 7.7 mi | |
| 14 | Mira Mesa | San Diego | CA | 7.8 mi | |
| 15 | Point Loma | San Diego | CA | 8.6 mi | |
| 16 | Coronado | Coronado | CA | 9.2 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| Miramar MCAS | 4.9 mi. |
| MCRD San Diego | 5.6 mi. |
| San Diego Naval Medical Center | 6.8 mi. |
| North Island NAS | 8.5 mi. |
| Naval Base Point Loma | 9.9 mi. |
| Coronado Naval Amphibious Base | 10.1 mi. |
| San Diego Naval Base | 10.2 mi. |
| Camp Pendleton | 38.9 mi. |
