Darby Avenue Charter School in Los Angeles

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	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	5/10	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 16, 2026

Darby Avenue Elementary has been a great school for our family. The teachers are patient, thoughtful, and truly supportive of the students. The campus is always clean and well cared for, and theres a very positive, welcoming atmosphere throughout the school. Being located in a quiet residential neighborhood really adds to the sense of safety and community. Weve been very happy with our experience here.

Posted: January 16, 2026

Posted: January 15, 2026

Darby Avenue Elementary is an amazing school. I have two daughters currently in 1st grade, and theyve loved both kindergarten and first grade. The teachers are patient, caring, and truly invested in the students. The principal, Mrs. Wong, is wonderfulshe listens to parents and is very engaged with the school community. The campus is beautiful and clean, and the school is located in a great residential neighborhood with no commercial traffic, which makes it feel especially safe and welcoming. We feel very fortunate to be part of this school.

Posted: April 29, 2024

I have three children at this school, grades K, 2, and 4. There's the right balance for academics and enrichment activities. For the most part, we have had great success with teachers who provide feedback on assignments that we can review with our kids (not just marking items as right or wrong, or simply giving points for work). Our children enjoy going to school and we are seeing them grow and develop through their experiences. Ms. Wong makes it a point to learn students' names and builds connections with them. We live out of the area, but make the drive everyday to and from school, because we recognize the quality experiences they are getting. Parents and families appear to be involved and form a community. I would highly recommend this school.

Posted: April 29, 2024

Posted: November 24, 2023

My son has been going to Darby since Kindergarten and is now in 4th grade at the school. Not only has the teaching staff been exemplary, but the school takes great care with students who have learning disabilities. My son is on the autism spectrum and would be considered high functioning, so many may not recognize his autism. But the school and staff surrounded him with support to help him excel in areas beyond simple academics, such as social development, and peer-peer interaction, helping him with social cues and behavior in group settings, things where his autism may have hampered his ability to integrate and excel. I credit the Darby staff with with their incredible effort on my son's behalf, without which I think his social and academic performance would be severely underdeveloped from where they are now. I cannot say enough good things about our experience at this school after 4 years of attendance.

Posted: November 24, 2023

Posted: January 5, 2023

I have mixed emotions about Darby. On the one hand - some of these teachers are briliant, sweet, and very hard-working. On the other hand, these same teachers seem to be under alot of pressure and underapreciated by their leadership. While some schools foster a team effort among the teachers, my impression of these teachers is that they compete with one another, rather than working collabaratively.
The leadership itself , led by principle Lucy Lee, is not very friendly or positive. The principle specifically does not seem to enjoy the children at all. I live near the school and walk around the school during reccess time. This school seems to cancell reccess much of the time and I'm not sure why they do that.
I've asked my son, but he is not able to explain to me. I've asked his teacher, but I don't really have a answer on this question. Principal Lucy Lees out there yelling at the children and their seems to be alot of rules as to were the children can play or not play.
I've tryed to get an appointment to talk to Miss Lee, but if I'm ever let in to talk to her, she brushes me off very disrespectfuly.
I'm really not sure how I feel about this school.

Posted: January 5, 2023

Posted: March 21, 2022

My daugther ,who's a 5th grader, experienced bullying at school. Teacher was informed as well as principle and nothing was done to resolve this issue. My daugther was slapped, kicked and called bad names. Teacher knew about the bullying which still continue. My daughters' teacher didn't punish bully kids, but accused an innocent child of doing something she did not do. My daugthers classmate bit a piece of cheese put it on the table. The aid blamed my daugther told the teacher and didn't let her explained it wasn't hers it was someone elses. The aid and the teacher forced my daugther to clean the entire cafeteria during lunch and recess preventing her from eating her lunch. My daugther is a good girl who respects her peers and didn't deserve this horrific, traumatizing, humiliating punishment. Kids threw food on the floor while she was cleaning and nothing was said to those student not only was this embarresing for her, but also traumating in a sense that kids point laugh and shes in the stage where shes figuring out who she is. This won't help, shes all ready struggling in making friends now the teacher bulling her. I asked for her to have a different teacher and it was denied. I asked to change schools denied. At the end I took matters in my own hands went to the school that she belongs to where I live and they took her right in. Parents help your children if you don't help them then who will.

Posted: March 21, 2022

Posted: June 18, 2021

WONDERFUL Principal and caring staff. During the Pandemic the school really strived to provide a sense of calm to the community. The Principal and 5th grade team also planned a wonderful in person culmination for 5th graders. This school is a gem.

Posted: June 18, 2021

Posted: June 1, 2021

A lovely community. The parents and PTA are very involved, which is great. My child has had truly wonderful teachers each year, and accommodations are made to help challenge bright students and keep them interested. The teachers really care about their students, and it's clear they work very hard to make sure the kids feel supported and engaged.

The school has a library, which is wonderful and uncommon in LAUSD. The campus is freshly painted and in great shape. The principal is kind and approachable. The teachers each have their own homework policy, which I agree with-- teachers know their students and the material best (even though I'm personally not a fan of homework in elementary, I trust the teachers.)

The special needs and resources educators are wonderful and very involved. The school does a great job at integrating students with different learning levels, abilities and disabilities into one community and making sure no one is left behind. The school also has a gifted magnet, which I don't know much about, but it sounds like another great option for keeping bright students motivated and engaged. They school has a small but nice theater auditorium, so the students are able to put on little holiday shows. There's even an orchestra option the older students can join to learn an instrument.

During the COVID pandemic the school did a great job providing devices and keeping kids learning. They also brought in the school psychologist to talk with the children and helped them to talk about their feelings, which impressed me. The students did yoga, mediation, dancing and stretching together over Zoom. I do think the school tries their best to help support the whole child.

My only concern us that bullying isn't addressed at all-- children come home with black eyes and the parents of the bully aren't even alerted. If your child is bullied your child & family are left to "play defense" and fend for themself, the school will not address it in any way. They desperately need to implement an effective system (or any system at all) for addressing bullying. Both for the student's wellbeing, and to avoid lawsuits.

But overall, a school is defined by its teachers, and Darby has excellent and caring ones. They are true educators who teach, adapt, encourage and challenge their students. I'm thankful my student goes to Darby.

Posted: June 1, 2021

Posted: August 18, 2020

Both my sons attended Darby and loved it. Its a great community of families and teachers

Posted: July 28, 2020

I went to Darby back in the 1960s - there were close to 1000 students - the vice principal use to swat kids who misbehaved with a paddle. It was a different age way back then. Lots of good memories - I left 6th grade in 1971 and am now a retired gteacher.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Homework reinforces what they learn in class, gradually increasing in complexity.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Our child learned a lot and had several caring teachers.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Besides academics, the school focuses on character values. Awards are given each week for students who exemplify the good character traits.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Many organized events for staff and families. A lot of encouragement for all to participate.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Great sense of community, strong academics, family fun nights, and caring staff and principal!

Posted: August 31, 2019

When the teachers send a class bully to the office, the office sends them right back to the class or Miss Lee lets them play on her computer to "decompress"

Posted: August 31, 2019

Good teachers - poor leadership - very sad situation there at Darby

Posted: August 31, 2019

The teachers all have different homework. There isn't any school wide consistency - which is fine.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Darby has some excellent teachers, although many of the truly excellent teachers have left due to the new leadership.

Posted: August 31, 2019

No time for character development - it's all about the test scores

Posted: August 31, 2019

The new principal lacks inspiration and a caring spirit. The former principal Miss Ghoniem was far superior.

Posted: August 31, 2019

Posted: May 30, 2019

I agree with the previous reviewers, the office personnel and teachers are rude. I would add that the principal is is not very kind either and inapproachable. We had very disappointing moments with this school, and I heard the same from alot of parents. Many parents feel really bad they have to take their kids from their "home school" to other schools because of the issues this school has. We hope the district will do something about it, because the problems are getting worst and worst.

Posted: May 30, 2019

Posted: May 11, 2018

My daughter had a wonderful experience at Darby. At first I was worried about the diversity of the student body and how she would be treated by staff and students, but every day of Kindergarten was a great day for her. She loved the Darby Reads program, P.E. with YMCA, and all of her classroom experience with her teacher and subs. We are transferring her out because she was accepted into a magnet school, otherwise we would be so happy for her to remain at Darby 1st-5th grade. Great staff in the office, playground, and classrooms, and a great PTA program with events and fundraisers that make it easy to get involved.

Posted: May 11, 2018

Posted: June 28, 2016

My child culminated from this school 3 years ago , and we still remember how great this school is especially the teachers.One in peticular is Ms.Elcayam , my child's kindergarten and 5th grade teacher, she is probably the greatest teacher I personally have ever seen, my child learned so many great skills from her that she still uses to this day.

Posted: September 20, 2015

I have had my kids here for many years and would've given it the "great" rating if it weren't for one "bad apple" in the main office named Debbie. She is very rude and snobby. I have waited on more than one occasion for her to get off her cell phone to acknowledge my presence in the office upon my arrival. It was quite apparent on these occasions by her tone and language that these were personal calls! I have also witnessed her being mean and rude to students who have to sit out their lunch due to injury. She told them to "sit down and be quiet!"- and NOT in a nice way at all. This behavior would not even be justified if these students were in trouble, for I believe it is possible to do her job AND be kind at the same time; she obviously sees it very differently. I find it hard to believe she doesn't realize how horrible she acts to kids, parents, and teachers. I also find it hard to believe she is still working at all.

Posted: September 20, 2015

Posted: March 2, 2015

This is school has great PTA program parents are very involved however the main office personnel are beyond rude!! They treat us like second class citizens & i guess we're not the only parenta here who are not satisfied with the service. They good teachers some do need to improve their social skill. My kid is recently transferred to more "advanced" class & they begged us to move our kid to another class instead of getting the same treatment we are treated like again second class citizens. The teacher talks to with different tone & the look that she gave us?? I'm very disappointed with the attitude of the office staff & one of the teacher.

Posted: April 16, 2014

We love this school - great teachers, great parent involvment - great atmosphere. Have been here for 2 years now and love it so far.

Posted: June 5, 2013

My daughter has been at this school for 2 years now and loves it! I was so hesitant about putting her in a public school knowing that she was coming from a private preschool, however my nervousness was quickly gone within the first month! The school is extremely in touch with the needs of their students and has sooooo many fun FREE activities for the children throughout the year. My daughter always looks forward to going to the events and ALWAYS says that she had a good day at school. Even when she has had a problem with another student, the teachers are always willing to intervene and assist with the issue. They have more after school programs than I have ever seen at any school and I really appreciate that being a full time working mother. It's hard enough to be away from your child all day, however it is comforting knowing that they are in a safe, fun and academic environment that they actually enjoy! PTA is awesome and is always willing to help! Great school!

Posted: June 5, 2013

My daughter has been at this school for 2 years now and loves it! I was so hesitant about putting her in a public school knowing that she was coming from a private preschool, however my nervousness was quickly gone within the first month! The school is extremely in touch with the needs of their students and has sooooo many fun FREE activities for the children throughout the year. My daughter always looks forward to going to the events and ALWAYS says that she had a good day at school. Even when she has had a problem with another student, the teachers are always willing to intervene and assist with the issue. They have more after school programs than I have ever seen at any school and I really appreciate that being a full time working mother. It's hard enough to be away from your child all day, however it is comforting knowing that they are in a safe, fun and academic environment that they actually enjoy! PTA is awesome and is always willing to help! Great school!

Posted: October 29, 2012

In reference to the post on Sept 12, 2012: A few facts: 1. This parent consistently dropped off their child late to school (as in more than once a week, and more than a few minutes). 2. This parent brought up the concern at back-to-school night at the Question and Answer session and then pulled their child out of the school the next day. My child is in Mrs Elcayem's class and her expectations are high and works hard to give individual attention as needed to each child. As with most of the teachers at Darby and Principals goals, expectations are high. Tardiness is not tolerated and 100% attendance is strongly encouraged. If you are interested in starting with at least this goal and more, Darby is an excellent public school. If education is not a priority and you can not work with teachers to help your child learn and grow, there are many other schools to choose from.

Posted: October 29, 2012

I am very happy at Darby. When we had to move our kids from private school to public school, I immediately came to Darby. I was very impressed with the principal, staff and teachers. I knew it was a perfect place for our boys. I am especially please with the 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Elcayam. She is extremely dedicated to her students and committed to preparing them for middle school. I couldn't be happier. Darby also has a very active PTA. The PTA helps out the school whenever and where ever they need help. Go Darby!

Posted: October 29, 2012

We pulled our son out of private school to attend Darby. This is our 4th year at Darby, and we've been thrilled with the decision to come here, ever since! The PTA is phenomenal, the Parent Center is always buzzing with activities. Mrs. Ghoneim does not tolerate bullying, and deals with any hint of it immediately. This year, my son is in Mrs. Elcayam's class. We LOVE her. There is always that one teacher that a person remembers, years down the road. Mrs. Elcayam will be that teacher for us. She is incredible. Passionate. Truly dedicated to her profession and her students. I saw a difference in my son's writing abilities the very first week. I see a difference in his study skills, every day. She is helping him realize his potential, and he proudly shows us his weekly progress report, every Tuesday. I volunteer in the class regularly, and I love witnessing the learning that is taking place, the interesting and exciting ways Mrs. Elcayam reaches her students, and how her love of learning rubs off on the kids. This school is amazing, and we feel blessed to be a part of it!

Posted: October 10, 2012

I have two children who attend Darby and we have been happy here! Darby has mostly great teachers, an involved principal and very active PTA. Our favorite teacher is Mrs. Elcayam! Her passion for learning is contagious and she is amazing and my kids have learned so much from her! The parent who commented negatively about her(very outnumbered in her views) is also a parent who brought her daughter to school late almost daily so she needs to be more respectful!

Posted: October 1, 2012

Not very pleased with this school. The office staff can never answer your questions. Few incidents where gates were wide open after school hours. I feel so bad that my child goes to this school. Kudos to a very active PTA though.

Posted: November 2, 2011

Darby Elementary is a good quality school with a very active PTA, hard working, good teachers and a very involved principal. The principal leads every school tour in the spring, dresses up & walks in the Halloween costume parade with the students, holds weekly morning assemblies for families and sends weekly phone communications. The school has a super low teacher turnover rate. The teachers are approachable and helpful. The school has maintained its School for Advanced Studies designation & provides challenging academics. The 5th graders are prepared for middle school. The PTA holds FREE and educational events for students and their families during the year (Ice Cream Social, Talent Show, School Dance, Homework Club, reading incentive program, & more) and doesn't put too much pressure on the families for fund raising, which I appreciate since I have multiple children attending. The custodial staff and classroom aides are very helpful and friendly; Mr. T rocks! In addition, the school has 3 Autistic classrooms, an Occupational Therapy Center, Intervention/Resource teachers, Creative Kids after school care program & free orchestra program. It's an all-around great school!

Posted: November 2, 2011

My child started at the school during the middle of the school year last year and I am quite happy with the school. I'm very impressed with the dedication and hands-on manner of Principal Virginia Ghoniem. Also Mrs. Elcayam, one of the 5th grade teachers is an EXCELLENT teacher. She is great at preparing the students for the transition to middle school. The school as a whole did very well last year with respect to test scores and increased their API from 871 to 900. The PTA is also very good and organized. I would definitely recommend this "gem in the Valley" to any parent.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Northridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Northridge	CA	3.1 mi
2	Hollyglen	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Hawthorne	CA	26.6 mi
3	Foothill Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Camarillo	CA	29.8 mi
4	Camarillo	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Camarillo	CA	30.2 mi
5	Del Prado Town Homes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Camarillo	CA	31.3 mi
6	RiverPark	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Oxnard	CA	36.8 mi
7	Hollywood Beach	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Oxnard	CA	40.5 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Central Camarillo	Camarillo	CA	30.2 mi
2	Oxnard	Oxnard	CA	37.2 mi
3	Ventura	Ventura	CA	39.8 mi

Base	Distance
Los Angeles AFB	25.6 mi.
Point Mugu NAS - Naval Base Ventura County	34.2 mi.
Los Alamitos JFTB	38.7 mi.
Port Hueneme - Naval Base Ventura County	38.9 mi.
Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station	43.8 mi.

Darby Avenue Charter School

Los Angeles, CA 91326

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Darby Avenue Charter School

Los Angeles, CA 91326

School Ratings

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