George Washington Charter School in Palm Desert

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	7/10	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: November 6, 2025

The new princioal is absolutely horrble. If your child has a learning or behavioral disorder, I would not recommend this school. Your child will be treated poorly. They are more concerned about the schools pretentious reputation and status rather than dealing with any child that fits outside the norm. There are many other grest schools in the valley.

Posted: November 6, 2025

Posted: September 13, 2025

The new principal has demonstrated a lack of organization and poor people skills. Since her hiring, the overall quality of the school has noticeably declined.

Posted: September 13, 2025

Posted: August 14, 2025

Very bored stuff, specially the head of the school claiming shes kind, but she is exactly opposite. I dont even want to think what they teaching the little kids avoid of all cost.

Posted: August 14, 2025

Posted: September 24, 2024

Front office staff is not very helpful. They have preference at this school and it just became very clear to me. At my sons previous school, Carter Elementary everyone was more welcoming and knew my son by name. At Washington Charter theres no way of having that same friendly, welcoming environment unless you are part of the clique.
Apart from academics what this school is known for us preferential treatment to certain families. My son deserves better but my husband sadly has a bias from what he has heard about this school and has not realized it is far from reality.

Posted: September 24, 2024

Posted: February 16, 2023

Hi, I used to be a student at this school. I look around this comment section and see many who disagree with the schools methods, which many I agree with. But they dont treat you any better even if you pay large sums of money, I used to be one of the biggest trouble makers at this school, and my grandpa paid large sums of money during the walk jog a-thons and other fundraising events, however, I was still treated and dealt with like any other would be. I do not know how much money my grandpa gave me, but it was enough to secure a place to have lunch with the Principle (which was a high honor?). Their teaching method is rather harsh, but it works I suppose. But yeah, in my experience, this school doesn't treat you differently if you pay good money, but some kid did choke me one time and I told on him and absolutely nothing happened to him. I am pretty sure he has big money so... honestly I don't know. Some teachers were nice, but I was the biggest jerk and an idiot so in my memory, its just me being mad at most of my teachers, a few were cool and I loved those guys. The yard duties were strict but, as I said, I was a big trouble maker. Anyways, they teach well but maybe their way of fundraising and treating others is not so good.

I recommend this school if your child is a good kid and eager to learn, they may be bummed out because some fundraisers have prizes, but it wont matter compared to a good education.

Washington was kinda purgatory for myself, but I also probably have the biggest record known to mankind in that school for all the shenanigans I caused, I''d preferably not list what I caused.

I bet if I went their now, I would love to get to know my teachers better and apologies for everything.

Posted: February 16, 2023

Posted: July 15, 2021

by far the best school in the valley

Posted: July 15, 2021

Posted: April 2, 2019

overall probably no better than any other school. Please refer to my comments in question three.

Posted: April 2, 2019

The majority of the teachers are very dedicated. There are some that are just the opposite. Our two boys have been here several years. We are having a terrible experience with our youngest boys third grade teacher. We have had no help from the principle at the school. I hate to say it but it appears that people who can donate large amounts of money get better attention.

Posted: April 2, 2019

we have no experience in this area.

Posted: February 28, 2019

Absolutely. Apart from a very small minority, most are excellent teachers, caring and accessible.

Posted: February 28, 2019

Definitely, but only in certain grades, depending on the teacher.

Posted: February 28, 2019

Not if the bully is the child of a generous donor.

Posted: February 28, 2019

The Principal runs the school in a dictatorial manner. A few teachers agree with that sentiment and are not supportive of his methods. Academically the school is good, thanks to the great teaching staff. A certain administrative staff member requires lessons in manners and cease treating both parents, and more importantly the children, as non entities. Fund raising is important to all schools, but at WCS, the more cash you raise, the better your child will be treated, especially by the Principal. He is so egotistical and considers his fund raising efforts far above the academic and emotional needs of the children. Time for him to retire!

Posted: February 12, 2019

My overall experience here was great. Nice people, great RESPONSIBLE teachers, CARING STAFF, etc.

Posted: February 12, 2019

If any child didn't have homework done teachers would give us detention

Posted: February 12, 2019

Teachers here really care about students and grades

Posted: February 12, 2019

Posted: September 21, 2017

This school needs to make changes to how it deals with children with learning differences. Exclusion, shunning and gossip are serious forms of bullying. Kindness requires acceptance and tolerance.

Posted: September 21, 2017

Posted: August 30, 2017

If you are not donating a ton your child will go unnoticed . My kid missed one day had 2 tardies due to the late bus and she couldn't even get a effort award. There are honor awards and effort awards for the children who make effort to be on time and not miss any days. Mind you this is her first year missing a day. So I can recognize her effort . Apparently they cant.

Posted: June 9, 2016

We like this school. It has been a good overall experience for my child so far.

Posted: April 28, 2016

My children have attended this school for three years now and all I can say is that we are so very lucky to be here. We have had only excellent teachers and I can assure you, this school and staff truly CARES. I have sent my children to a private school, I have home schooled and I am now at a public, charter school. There is no "perfect" option, no matter what, you (PARENTS) need to be all up in your child's business and school work in order for them to be successful. The parents here who expect to dump their children at school and presume they will be magically educated by the teachers alone should spend some time in the common core curriculum and try to figure out how to teach it to one student, much less 30.

That being said, we are absolutely certain that we have the very best teachers possible for our children at George Washington Charter. For example, Mrs. Santos is probably one of the most gifted elementary school teachers I have ever encountered. She is unbelievably skilled at motivating my son to do better and he works so hard for her, it's amazing. His reading and math skills are off the charts, thanks to her!

The front desk staff have gone out of their way to accommodate my kids and our needs on multiple occasions and I know that they all know my children's names, which is no small feat in a school of so many children! My son suffered a terrible accident and was taken out of school for about 6 weeks. During that time, his teacher came to our home to give him one-on-one tutoring a few times a week so that he didn't fall behind in his studies. I know no private school that would do this, only George Washington Charter.

If you can get your children into this school, they will have the very best start to their education that is possible.

Posted: February 11, 2016

It is not fair to the teachers to lump them all together for this question. Some teachers are outstanding. They know the balance between caring compassion and disciplinarian, they can motivate their kids and focus them to teach. Yet we have had a teacher who didn't do this, sat on her computer all day, name called and didn't teach my child much at all.

Posted: February 11, 2016

I waited until year 2 to submit my review because I was torn on my review. I have come to the conclusion that our children's experience has everything to do with the teachers. Just like any school, there are the good and the not so good, and I guess one of my children just had the worst of them last year. This year, she has the best of them, and all I can do is rave about WCS. We love the diversity, we love all the "specials", superb music class, real PE, learning Excel in elementary school!!, after school activities and a great group of kiddos! My son is in 5th grade and he is learning a lot with a good teacher, but he seems to be working too hard for a 10 year old. He's doing great, but doesn't have much time to just play with his friends and be a kid. Other then that, we are thrilled at all great levels... as long as you get a good teacher.

Posted: February 6, 2016

This is my first year at wcs, my daughter is an only child. Let me just start by saying i went in with a open mind. My daughter was invited to a bday party and i met another parent who said a parent volunteer who helps in the classroom speaks badly about the children and where they struggle academically. I was shocked how can you grown adult woman do this? If your going to help in the classroom than help but volunteering just to gossip is beyond disgusting, shama on her! And no use bringing it up with the principal he loves his vounteers they do the teachers job because how can a teacher to 25 kids get to them all? Oh and dont even get me started on the in class work coming home marked as if its correct. I go over the in class work when my child comes home. I feel like I am doing the teachers job!

Posted: May 16, 2015

I have to agree with you. WCS is over rated. why they test children before enrolling? anyone know why?!

Posted: March 2, 2015

Why do these problems get so bad that the parents feel that they have no options? I think that the troubled teachers undermine good ones. For example, the teacher who talks about "problem parents" on Twitter should focus her efforts on respectful communication and helping people assimilate. That could go a long way in creating a positive environment for ALL families.

Posted: February 25, 2015

It's an overrated school. It is not what others led you believe. It's maybe a tag better than Lincoln Elementary School. I beg you do more research before you make a decision to send your child there. There are teachers that should never became a teacher. They seem to hate their career, life. You can hardly get a smile out out them. They seem so miserable most of the time. . And trust me, that would effect your kid big time. They don't know how to communicate via their messages. Most of the time they are so conflicted within their messages. Another word, they don't know what they want. Additionally, we do most of the teaching at home. They don't teach anything in class. That's why our kids are now doing homeschool. It's not the best solution, but it's certainly far better than Washington Charter. If you have the money to send your kids to private school, then stay away from WCS. I wish Mr. Lehman had an open mind to except the fact that at WCS there are some teachers either have more training how to deal with kids, or they should not be there at all.

Posted: October 29, 2014

As parents you try to do you due diligence and make sure your child gets the best education.We were so excited to have won the lottery and to be able to give our child what we hoped to be a prideful school with great teachers and staff. Going to a new school, not knowing the teachers history, You really do not know what you were in for. This teacher has be the worse so far in my child's education. I could not believe the foul language used in meetings, name calling of students and complete unprofessionalism. I am dissapoonted that this childish, unprofessional, selfish teacher would have the discretion to decide my child faith at this school or classroom. The teacher does not know the fundamentals of communication, not only did she have the control to kick my daughter out of her class because she doesn't want to be "monitor" by parents. I am sorry but you do spend more hours in the day with my child and I want to know what's going on and to see the higher up's support her behavior is very disappointing. This is what you call "Bullying" at the fullest. My child is an A+ student, well behaved and all past teachers were grateful for my child and parents like us that care.

Posted: June 24, 2014

Wow! This school is amazing! I am very proud and honored to have my daughter attending here and I have had nothing but positive experiences with the teachers, counselor, and principal. Even when I got in trouble and had to have a meeting with my daughter, husband, and principal for her frequent lateness one year, I felt very proud of how it was handled by Mr. Lehmann. We were being held accountable respectfully yet seriously, and had to sign a contract to improve the matter, and we did :). As for the office staff they can be curt and cold, but it isn't always that way. It can be unnerving, but I brush it off as they are good at their jobs and are good to my daughter. The teachers and staff are hard working, caring, and all share the same goal and thats to give your child a great education and learning experience and I believe that every year that is achieved for the vast majority of their students. I am not close with any of the parents at the school, but the ones who volunteer are always nice and welcoming and I have yet to experience the cliques that were mentioned in comments below and I hope I never do. As for the fundraising I think its great and very beneficial.

Posted: June 1, 2014

WCS is an amazing school. I have a child with mild special needs and the teachers and the school counselor are willing to work with myself and our OT. My other child is not a quick learner and her teachers have been amazing working with us to keep her moving at the same pass of the class and does not make her feel bad or awkward.

Posted: February 26, 2014

It's pretty simple, if your child can fit within the WCS mold and you can stomach the social jockeying and labeling, this school is great. However, if your child is struggling or has innate differences, it can be a very cruel place. Try to avoid the front office and the gossip moms who are parked there much of the day (literally).

Posted: February 12, 2014

Is your child different? Quirky? Creative? Special needs? This is NOT the place for them. You will quickly learn that children (& parents) outside of the "norm" are less than welcome. Two teachers, and the school counselor, suggested retention and actually used the word "lazy" in describing my child, said they wanted to help, but offered zero solutions. Very quick to blame child and parents. Three way conversation via speaker phone with my child and the principal. Principal accused my child of lying, "I find it impossible to believe that you're reading so much yet have taken no AR tests. How is that possible?" Made no difference that my child was reading a large book at that time. Gossip/passive-aggressive/cliquey behavior from parents/staff who are old enough to know better. Many students are quick to exclude different kids from non-class activities. My child went from smiling and open to being withdrawn and sad. Heartbreaking that a school will not (cannot?) properly address children outside of the norm, and have little problem crushing a child's spirit for API scores. Improvements? Study and implement Finland's school structure, for true quality in education & learning.

Posted: November 2, 2013

Gossip is a problem at this school. I've witnessed it in the front office with staff, self-important parents and teachers alike. Sadly, the subjects have no recourse and tend to be labeled as troublemakers. As long as you can avoid the "line of fire", you can have a positive experience at this school. I've found that the teachers who are not the most "popular" ones tend have better critical thinking skills and are more effective educators. The fundraising does provide extra programs and activities.

Posted: October 27, 2013

The truth is that all it matters is if you donate money at all times ( by the way it doesn't matter if you put many hours at the school helping in the classroom as a parent volunteer ), and also if you become good friends with the teachers. Some of the teachers are fair but others are not. Too bad Mr. Lehman who is an excellent principal is unawared of this issue. This will help your child get the top awards. If your child gets better scores on their Star testing and their academics well too bad!!! What counts is how much money you give and who you are friends with. So sad for the children that actually deserved high academic excellence. After all their scores help the school rankings. They make the school look good!!!!!

Posted: October 14, 2013

soo soo true about the office staff. They ruin an otherwise nice school. Agreed ..they are both so passive aggressive and very unpleasant. Everyone I speak with has had awful experiences with both front staff members, makes for an unfortunate supposed "welcoming and helping" initial school presence. Maybe everyone complaining on here is not the way to change the problem. I suppose nothing can be done, since obviously the higher ups are aware of this too. Maybe nobody, except school parents who have to deal with this all the time, care about it! The teachers are very helpful and do a great job, and there is a lot to offer the children. Class size was supposed to go down, but didn't really see that happen.

Posted: September 4, 2013

We are proud of the school and understand why fundraising is important. It's worth it for the kids. The school has always been transparent about how they raise money for the programs. Parents know this before the enroll and I hope it continues to be successful. We appreciate the staff and volunteers dedication - a big thank you. Truly a wonderful school.

Posted: September 3, 2013

So much for being honest and posting your exp. as stated by the person who wrote the last two posts. Think about taking your child elsewhere. Se this is what you get if you voice your honest opinion. Unfortunately, at WCS some parents are very clickish and think they themselves are attending WCS. The front office staff is very negative and passive aggressive. I avoid it. As for the school. Keep quiet about the fake bake immaturity. Go along, donate money every other day and let them double dip on transportation.

Posted: August 31, 2013

I have sent my two boys to this school, and even though it has made many changes throughout our time there, one thing remains constant, they will do whatever is best of the student. Teachers and staff are very dedicated and proud. It has been one incredible and terrific experience for my kids and our family.

Posted: July 30, 2013

This school is very "tight", criticism is not going to be well received. However, there are legitimate problems in the front office. It's especially annoying when the person being rude is the same voice on automated phone calls reminding parents of fundraising events. Instead of making excuses for the behavior it would only benefit the school to address the issue.

Posted: June 27, 2013

This school is by far the best in the valley. I have spent endless time there and know first hand what goes into a day of running the front office, working with parents, staff, and principal. There are not many people out there that could do what they do on a daily basis for 10 months out of the year. On another note, the parent club is fabulous. They could not offer all the programs they offer with out help from fundraising. So, yes, funds are asked for on a regular basis. It only contributes to what makes this school number one!

Posted: June 11, 2013

Amazing!!!! This school is hands down the best school that this valley has to offer. The staff is so supportive and truly care about your child's education. They do so much to help your child. They offer so many extra activities that gives your child a head start above the rest. Thank you to WCS for giving my children the best education and experience. Thank you for allowing me to be such a huge part of my child's growth at school.

Posted: June 8, 2013

This a great school just getting better (I'm going to ignore those below whose primary experience of their child's school is how much time the office staff has to chat with the parent, other than to say they've added a third {wonderful} office staff so the other two are no not so overworked.) Not only does this school excel in academics, such as sending teams to the STATE science fair and the WORLD Odyssey of the Mind Championship, but they are REDUCING class sizes so everyone gets a better education, and they have placed multiple laptops in every classroom. I'm so proud my children go here.

Posted: March 16, 2013

I have to comment on reading the recent posts. School is what you, as a parent, put into it. If you have a problem with the office staff, look at how you are communicating to them? Are you kind and pleasant or are you irritated when you enter the office? They are doing an excellent job at dealing with parents and I cannot believe people would single out the ladies like this. I am surprised that this website actually posted your mean comments. I have seen the behavior talked about, but it usually happens when the phones are ringing and chaos is going on in the office. Get over it, they are human. Give the front staff a break. Also, you want your child to have the best education from a public school, then fund raisers are necessary. Complain to the powers in Sacramento, not Washington Charter. So the next time you have to interact with the front office, try to be more understanding of the fact you are one parent out of hundreds that they see everyday. My son has been a student here for 5 yrs now and we have had ups and downs and the support of the staff has been great!!! So instead of being a complainer, take a moment and think about a more positive solution.

Posted: February 19, 2013

I agree with the complaint below. My, my husband's, & fellow parents/friends have experienced very negative experiences from the front office, specifically w/Ellie and Mr. Lehman. We parents have expressed among ourselves how we were certainly "wooed" by this same staff when applying for this great school (& I do believe it is a great school), but the moment we were accepted, we felt completed abandoned as NEW parents. Front office is impatient & extremely condescending to any parent w/questions--particularly when taking OUR time to come in & verify vague &/or contradicting notices sent home en mass. I understand & appreciate bad days, but the front office interaction is too consistently negative to simply having a bad day. They do send home a lot of fund raising, money request...even using "no weekly homework" for your child if he/she can donate, etc. My husband & I are fairly active volunteers in class/campus as well as parent club events. My ONLY complaint lies with the front office staff & their rude behaviour. They have "No Bullying" motto & "Ridicule Free Zone" signs, yet they treat parents to the point of feeling bullied. Teaching staff however is EXCELLENT--no complaints!

Posted: February 18, 2013

I am going to tell you the honest truth about this school. The front office staff is completely rude. Fran has no people skills at all in fact I have witnessed her raise her voice to seniors that are visiting their grandchildren for an event. Ellie has ran out of her office to yell at a helpless single disable mother that was parking near the teacher spaces. She ran out of her office! Not in her job description and is a bully. The school asks for money two three times a week, you get recorded phone calls with Fran's voice reminding you of money or money donated events. The school's kindergarden gives homework for reading even though they have not learned any reading skills. Very money driven school that has women participating in the dail fashion show, which is actually the time to pick up their children.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Murray Lane	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Yucca valley	CA	28 mi
2	Shafter Avenue	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Yucca valley	CA	28.1 mi
3	Turtle Rock	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Twentynine Palms	CA	35.5 mi
4	Redhawk	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Temecula	CA	45 mi
5	Amberwalk Townhomes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Murrieta	CA	49.3 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Smoke Tree	Twentynine Palms	CA	32.8 mi
2	Murrieta, California	Murrieta	CA	44.2 mi
3	Temecula, California	Temecula	CA	44.8 mi
4	Murrieta	Murrieta	CA	46.3 mi
5	West Side	murrieta	CA	50 mi

George Washington Charter School

Palm Desert, CA 92260

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George Washington Charter School

Palm Desert, CA 92260

School Ratings

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