Golden Hill K-8 in San Diego | Military Town Advisor

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	4/10	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.
Student Growth	2/10	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: May 20, 2026

Our daughter is finishing her TK year at this school, and weve had a wonderful experience. She loves her teachers, has made great friends, and is excited to go to school each day. The principal does a great job keeping families informed and involved through programs like Family Fridays, where parents can visit campus, hear school updates, and spend time reading in the classroom with their child.
Weve also been impressed with the Spanish immersion program and how quickly our child's confidence and knowledge have grown this year. Shes even reading, which we did not expect at the start of TK. She especially loves getting to participate in music and art each week.

Overall, we are happy with our experience and recommend this school.

Posted: May 20, 2026

Posted: October 3, 2025

Really horrible experience. New principal warden acting. Class room smelly. Teacher some good some ok. Bullies and discrimination happened there with lazy involvement, food bad old direhha . Good luck with front office with some good or bad day. Pre K adorably and has Mr Dobb is fantastic fun and kind kids favorite teacher .

Posted: October 3, 2025

Firstly, it has come to my attention that bullying and discriminatory behavior have been allowed to persist within the school environment, with little to no effective action taken to address the situation. As a parent, I believe that every child should feel safe and valued in their learning environment, but it seems that the school's administration has failed to provide adequate support for the victims of bullying.

Moreover, I have observed troubling interactions with the principal, who seems to hold a biased and unfair attitude towards parents who are unable to contribute financially to the school. Many of us, myself included, are juggling multiple responsibilities, including full-time jobs and financial challenges. Unfortunately, the principal has made it clear through her attitude and actions that parents who cannot afford to make large donations or commit significant time to fundraising are viewed negatively.

This has created an environment where parents who are struggling to make ends meet or who are simply too busy trying to provide for their families are made to feel like they are neglecting their childrens education. The principal's condescending and dismissive behavior towards parents who do not donate large sums of money is both inappropriate and hurtful. Rather than fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community, the principals actions have created an atmosphere of division and resentment.

As a parent, I feel unfairly judged and alienated by someone in a leadership position who should be working to create an environment of support, not one of exclusion based on financial status. Parents should be able to contribute in a variety of ways that match their individual circumstances. Financial contributions are not the only way to show support for a school.

I hope that the school administration takes these concerns seriously and begins to address both the bullying issues and the unprofessional attitude of the principal. Every child deserves a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment, and every parent deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of their financial situation.

Posted: October 3, 2025

Posted: September 4, 2025

I am very proud to be a Golden Hill parent! We have enjoyed having our son at Golden Hill since TK. Both as a Mom and a Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician, I have found Golden Hill UTK-8 School to be an excellent school in terms of the academics and dual language design, while also being a supportive environment that fosters a strong sense of community aligned with the Eagle Way. Making a donation to this years Eagle Fun Run makes my heart smile because I know that all of the funds that are raised go towards supporting the students and the amazing teachers and staff at our school.

Posted: September 4, 2025

Posted: August 27, 2025

This is my third year at the school, and I have to say at first, I was hesitant about sending my child here. But after touring and learning that it follows a 50/50 Bilingual model, I was completely sold.

As an experienced UTK parent, I can confidently share that the kids make incredible progress. Within the first semester, theyre already learning to write their names, mastering sight words, and are far ahead of many new incoming kindergarten students.

One of my favorite features is their little oasisa private entry and exit just for them. It gently introduces the school environment in micro-bits, without overwhelming their young minds.

The staff and teachers are wonderful, and the school does a great job of keeping families informed through multiple channels: Class Dojo, weekly newsletters, the PTO bulletin boardyou name it.

I truly love this school and would recommend it to anyone considering a bilingual education. If youre on the fence, take a touryoull see firsthand what makes this place so special.

Posted: August 27, 2025

Posted: August 26, 2025

This is a disappointing school that feels like a prison.

The school is not equipped to handle TK and appropriate communication with parents. Teachers are trying and lovely but we have no understanding of learning goals or what actually takes place at school.

The office is a mess. I submitted paperwork three times and what is on file is still incorrect.

Parents are overcompensating for poor funding and poor leadership by the principal who acts like a warden.

There is more emphasis placed on Spanish language than actual learning. I will actively seek out sending my child to any other local school even though we live 3 blocks away.

Posted: August 26, 2025

Posted: August 25, 2025

We just started our 7th year at the school and love it! The teachers are amazing! Always caring and supportive of our kidsthey provide my kids with an invaluable bilingual Spanish education which will open doors for them in their future pursuits. The Principal works tirelessly to continuously elevate our school and is so supportive of her staff and students, and welcomes new ideas from staff and parents. The PTO has grown tremendously over the past 3 years into a strong and supportive organization for our kids, investing in our classrooms, field trips, essential software and equipment, afterschool programs and clubs, fun community events and so much more. Being at the school for some time now, we have seen a positive influx of families that live in the neighborhood and have chosen to invest in their neighborhood school. We are so happy to have found our community!

Posted: August 25, 2025

We have been at this school for 8 years now and we love it! Our kids feel safe, theyre challenged academically, they have social supports, and the teachers are amazing! Highly recommend!

Posted: August 25, 2025

Posted: August 22, 2025

My childs teacher prevented bathroom access everyday and because of this my 8 yr old child was coming home in severe emotional distress and in their own excrement.

My kid frequently ran to me after school crying because the teacher wouldnt let them drink water from their water bottle in class.

My child came home crying with heat-related illness during a severe weather day when SDUSD safety policy is to avoid exercise during PE.

And one day the teacher prevented my child from getting their lunchbox.

Of course I reported it all to both office workers, both nurses, both counselors, and requested a principal meeting, but the principal dismissed my concerns of the unsafe and unsanitary classroom conditions. The unprofessionalism, injuries, and dismissal, forced us to transfer to a safer school. We did not want to transfer because we loved the school. I was a school sponsor involved in the PTO and fundraising events.

I would not recommend this school while this principal is still there.

Posted: August 22, 2025

Posted: August 12, 2025

The new principal is unprofessional and she creates an intimidating environment for the students. The PTO constantly asks parents for money, yet theres no visible benefit for the kids it feels more money hungry than student focused. Communication is poor, and concerns go ignored. I would not recommend this school.

Posted: August 12, 2025

Posted: May 27, 2025

We have had an amazing experience with TK and K, thus far. We love the principal and all the teachers along with the PTO! Highly recommend, as a parent with a child on an IEP.

Posted: May 27, 2025

Posted: December 7, 2023

Our child started kindergarten and weve been very impressed by the teachers and other staff at Golden Hill. Our child is learning to read and write in Spanish and English and excited to go to school. The staff is highly involved and are dedicated to their students. The new principal has a PhD in dual immersion leadership and is focused on ensuring teachers have the resources they need. The school is in need of more regular funding however the group of parents involved in the PTO is beginning to get activities started. Families are encouraged to be involved and there are regular monthly family Fridays where parents can come to school. Would definitely recommend.

Posted: June 9, 2023

I have lived by this school for almost 11 years. My older child was established in a previous school so I did not move her. My younger child started at Golden Hill this year in TK. Her experience has been wonderful. She is reading in English and Spanish. TK at Golden Hill has far exceeded my expectations. Her teachers were caring and effective. We will be staying at this school for kindergarten. I would definitely recommend Golden Hill.

Posted: June 9, 2023

Posted: May 7, 2021

My son has done very well here!

Posted: May 7, 2021

Posted: July 15, 2020

This K-8 gem in Golden Hill is relatively unknown to parents looking for a brilliant alternative to the highly regarded (but often disappointing) charter school. Large Campus with many amenities. The motivated, highly-skilled, and high educated teachers are devoted to this school --evidenced by how few leave. Project based learning here is not the ordinary process of tossing kids together to compete a project--rather it's a well-planned process through which students learn real-world skills. I love this school. I have never received so many "thank you's from students when I volunteer. Respect and kindness are valued here. If you want your child to learn Spanish, writing skills, history, or high-level math; you can stop looking, because this is the school where it happens.

Posted: July 15, 2020

Posted: October 24, 2018

Concerning my childs education and growth, I would highly recommend Golden Hill. The leadership involving the school to come together to learn and grow is outstanding. For anyone to nay-say, really hasnt participated in the projects or truly has volunteered their time. It amazes me how the school not only cares for my childs education, but also her personal confidence in being her own person.

Posted: October 24, 2018

Packets are sent weekly, and teachers keep in contact with class dojo.

Posted: October 24, 2018

Ive never had issues with communication or when it came to positive or negative feedback about my child.

Posted: October 24, 2018

The school promotes group activities where each student is encouraged to participate, and have a voice.

Posted: October 24, 2018

We are so happy we enrolled at this dual language immersion neighborhood school! Students receive music, physical education, yoga, and emotional learning in addition to an incredible academic learning environment. They have access to a library, nurse, and a free breakfast/lunch program!

Posted: October 24, 2018

We have some incredibly kind, supportive, and dedicated staff at our school!

Posted: October 24, 2018

Mr. Elizondo is an awesome leader! He leads by example and encourages kindness and trying your best everyday.

Posted: October 24, 2018

Posted: May 9, 2017

The culture of the staff seems to lean more towards punitive and less towards support and nurturing children. I do not feel my kids are cared for, they are treated more like they are a nuisance to deal with. I feel this treatment and culture has been damaging to their character.

Posted: May 9, 2017

The vice principals answer to every little miss step from a student is suspension. While my sin loves this, I feel that it's ineffective in correcting the undesired behavior and is hurtful to their learning. In my experience the vice principal is extremely petty and is more focused on excessive punishments than ensuring the students have an environment that promotes learning.

Posted: May 9, 2017

There are many students with learning disabilities in my son's class. They just kinda wander around the classroom in my many experiences there.

Posted: May 9, 2017

My sons best friend was allowed to be bullied severely for 2 years. My son finally beat up the bully and now the bully leaves him and his friend alone.

Posted: May 9, 2017

I was very hopeful that this school would work out despite its poor ratings. Its a beautiful campus and close to my house. But unfortunately it sucks as bad as it is rated. My kids don't do well in such a negative, petty culture and I will be seeking out a school that has love for their kids.

Posted: March 17, 2017

This school is not like the other schools here in San Diego, it really is a part of the community and the community is a part of it. So happy to be a part of Golden Hill!

Posted: March 17, 2017

Posted: October 14, 2016

I've worked at Golden Hill K-8 for three years now as an Ed Specialist and I know how hard all the staff from Pre-K all to 8th grade work to help our students perform and push towards more proficient test scores and more demanding standards. Staff is constantly being provided with trainings, new technology, and better ways to handle classroom behavior. Our new V.P. is doing a great job with the culture of the school and really understands the students needs. Our new dual-language program is helping all students excel in both English and Spanish understanding. We are starting to have more after school and before school programs such as running club, and Primetime that allow students to be in a safe environment while their parents work. The kids are good kids and they want to achieve their best. The PTO does a great job with fund raising and adding to the school spirit. We are fast becoming a school to look out for in all grade levels! Come visit us and see!

Posted: January 22, 2016

Golden Hill's new dual language program is phenomenal. My daughter entered kindergarten not knowing any Spanish and now is a 1st grader who is reading and writing both English and Spanish. My daughter has been challenged academically and is very happy with her teachers and fellow peers. I would recommend this school to anyone, especially those looking for a Spanish and English curriculum.

Posted: May 6, 2015

My daughter is currently in first grade at Golden Hill. She started in pre-school, than kindergarten and now first grade. From pre-school on, all the teachers have been caring and encouraging. They have a lot of activities ( father-daughter movie night was my favorite) and they really try to get the parents involved. We are going to be moving soon, so we will have to say good bye to Golden Hill. I feel my daughter got a great start to her education here. I will truly miss Golden Hill and the teachers and the principal!

Posted: September 4, 2014

Golden Hill k-8 was lacking a lot of activities. With the help of PTO, ASB and new VP we have been able to get this school moving. Staff is great and students have a lot of potential. The school has a lot to offer. They just need to open up more activities. Specially because it's a middle school as well. It lies in such a beautiful neighborhood! Academics are getting better and better every year. There's a lack of parent involvement, but I know that'll change fast.

Posted: April 1, 2013

I was very impressed with the art exhibition the school had recently. The CARE program from Balboa Park worked with the third, fourth, fifth and sixth graders for seven weeks teaching them about drama, photography, painting, and art. The cumulative activity was the exhibition. It is wonderful to see the museums (MOPA, La Jolla Playhouse, Mingei, and MOA) working with schools in their community!

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	City Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	San Diego	CA	1.6 mi
2	Legacy Walk	Condominium/Townhouse	San Diego	CA	2 mi
3	The Heritage	Apartment Complex	San Diego	CA	2 mi
4	Mission Hills	Neighborhood/Subdivision	San Diego	CA	3.4 mi
5	Riverfront Condominium Rentals	Apartment Complex	San Diego	CA	3.9 mi
6	Apartment	Apartment Complex	Coronado	CA	4.3 mi
7	Del Cerro	Neighborhood/Subdivision	San Diego	CA	5.4 mi
8	Canyon View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	San Diego	CA	6.6 mi
9	Spectrum Center Blvd, Kearny Mesa	Neighborhood/Subdivision	San Diego	CA	7.5 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	North Park	San Diego	CA	1.7 mi
2	Gaslamp Quarter	San Diego	CA	2.2 mi
3	Seaport Village	San Diego	CA	2.8 mi
4	Broadway Pier	San Diego	CA	2.9 mi
5	Kensington	San Diego	CA	3.6 mi
6	Mission Hills	San Diego	CA	4 mi
7	Coronado	Coronado	CA	4.1 mi
8	Old Town San Diego	San Diego	CA	4.7 mi
9	Old Town	San Diego	CA	5 mi
10	Serra Mesa	San Diego	CA	5.7 mi
11	Eastlake of Chula Vista	Chula Vista	CA	5.8 mi
12	Del Cerro	San Diego	CA	5.9 mi
13	Loma Portal	San Diego	CA	6.1 mi
14	East County of San Diego	La Mesa	CA	6.8 mi
15	Point Loma	San Diego	CA	7.1 mi
16	West Chula Vista	Chula Vista	CA	7.6 mi

Base	Distance
San Diego Naval Medical Center	1.4 mi.
San Diego Naval Base	2.5 mi.
Coronado Naval Amphibious Base	3.7 mi.
MCRD San Diego	4.5 mi.
North Island NAS	4.9 mi.
Naval Base Point Loma	7.2 mi.
Miramar MCAS	10.8 mi.
Camp Pendleton	46.8 mi.

Golden Hill K-8

San Diego, CA 92102

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Golden Hill K-8

San Diego, CA 92102

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