Jefferson Elementary School in San Diego

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: May 8, 2026

As other reviewers have stated, this is not a good school for children with IEPs.

Posted: May 8, 2026

Posted: March 7, 2026

Jefferson has a wonderful community and many excellent teachers. My family has been very happy with our experience at Jefferson. The free afterschool clubs are a real stand out that most other local schools do not offer.

Posted: March 7, 2026

Posted: March 4, 2026

Our kiddo is in first grade at Jefferson, and so far we've had a wonderful experience. Teachers are caring and committed to their students. School administrators go above and beyond and seem to have great relationships with staff, students, and families. And the community of parents and caregivers is phenomenal. There is a strong parent-teacher organization that raises funds for enrichment activities, including dance, art, and garden, and hosts wonderful school-wide events throughout the year, like a fall festival, a holiday performance at the observatory, and a Valentine's Day dance. Plus, there are lots of informal opportunities to connect with other parents, like after school, when folks hang out and chat while the kids play on the joint-use playground field. The school really lives into its IB and STEAM charter, and these elements are present in the curriculum and school culture. I encourage any family who is considering Jefferson to take a tour and see for themselves what a special place it is.

Posted: March 4, 2026

Posted: March 3, 2026

Our family has been at Jefferson for three years, and it has been an incredibly positive experience for us.

Our kids are genuinely excited about what theyre learning. They come home talking about projects, books, garden time, art, and things theyre curious about. Learning feels active and engaging, not just something they have to get through.

The teachers are respectful, warm, and clearly care about their students. They set high expectations while also being supportive and encouraging. Weve consistently seen them motivate kids to try hard things and believe in themselves.

Jefferson also does a strong job supporting students socially and emotionally. Theres an emphasis on kindness, inclusion, and helping kids work through challenges in healthy ways. Weve felt that the adults on campus really pay attention to how students are doing, not just academically but as whole people.

From what weve observed, students who need additional support receive thoughtful accommodations and care. The school works to meet kids where they are and help them grow.

Safety has never been a concern for us. The environment feels structured, calm, and welcoming. Its a place where kids can focus on learning and being kids.

Finally, Jefferson truly welcomes families as partners. Communication is clear, parents are invited in, and there are so many ways to be involved. It feels like a community that shows up for each other.

We feel very grateful to be part of this school.

Posted: March 3, 2026

Posted: January 31, 2025

Jefferson Elementary School in North Park, San Diego, is a shining example of educational excellence. The students are enthusiastic and engaged, contributing to a vibrant learning environment. The dedicated faculty and staff are committed to fostering both academic and social-emotional growth, ensuring each child thrives. The schools International Baccalaureate (IB) and STEAM curricula enrich learning, promoting critical thinking and creativity. Parents praise the warm and welcoming community, noting the exceptional programs and unique opportunities available to students. Jefferson Elementary truly stands out as a cornerstone of quality education in San Diego.

Posted: January 31, 2025

Posted: September 15, 2024

I am a proud Jefferson Elementary parent. My child has had a fantastic experience at Jefferson. The teachers, community, and equitable programs are exceptional. Students are offered so many unique free enrichment opportunities on a weekly basis. This includes art, sports, garden club, dance, performing arts, music, Spanish, and even free after school clubs. In addition, Jefferson is a STEAM and IB magnet school. I highly recommend this school.

Posted: September 15, 2024

Posted: May 31, 2024

Jefferson Elementary is a wonderfully diverse and culturally accepting school, it's the schools views on students with disabilities and neurodiversity that is severely lacking. Their idea of placement for these kids is outdated and many of the younger kids with an IEP end up getting sent away to another school, on "parent request." The Education Specialist will make strong "suggestions" to parents, using phrases like, "your only options are..." Many students with challenges get sent away, the rest of the staff isn't trained or knowledgeable on the best practices for these kids. For special education there is an equity and belonging issue. There are several children, this year, that they tried to send away, certain "difficult" students with an IEP are not being given a chance. If your child is on an IEP I would be wary. But also come here, show them our children do belong at their school of residence.

Posted: May 31, 2024

Posted: February 24, 2024

Jefferson is a wonderful neighborhood school. Truly a special place and amazing community to be a part of.

Posted: February 24, 2024

Posted: February 8, 2024

I am a mom of a kindergarten student at Jefferson Elementary and I am very happy with my experience since deciding on this program. We moved to San Diego over the summer and was trying to specifically find an IB program for my son (If you don't know about IB schools, I would encourage you to look into them as it is a really amazing program.) By far, from all the message boards I scoured, moms and parents I reached out to and school programs I reached out to Jefferson families, and staff were the most responsive and helpful while I was trying to find a school for my kids from another state. They have welcomed me into the community circle with warmth and kindness.

My son is thriving in this school. I love that he exposed to diversity with his classmates & teachers, different cultural elements are weaved into so much of what they do daily. They spend a lot of time outside which is important to me. There are many club opportunities for after school like soccer, art, lego club, and garden club through Good Neighbor Gardens. But the every day curriculum includes dance, spanish, arts, music, and what I feel like is a great balance of learning, play and creative outlets. They really focus on kindness, critical thinking skills, and your childs place in the world. If you are on the fence, I encourage you to reach out to the Friends Of Jefferson groups on facebook, or online, (This is the PTA for the school who is very involved and active in the school and community.) Check out a neighborhood school, I think you'll be so surprised on the quality of education and sense of community.

Posted: February 8, 2024

I am a proud parent at Jefferosn Elementary. I also work as a leader in education in San Diego county. My child had grown academically as well has emotionally at this site. The STEAM and IB program has allowed children to soar and be inspired to change the world. The staff and community are exceptional! Highly recommend Jefferosn!

Posted: February 8, 2024

My daughter is in kindergarten here at Jefferson and I have to say this is a fantastic school! Her kindergarten teacher Mrs. Pallieto-Lima is amazing! My daughter loves going to school and has learned so much. I love how family oriented this school is, they invite families to the school once a month for family Fridays to be part of your childs class. Also, they make it very easy for families to participate in school activities and for families to be involved as much as they can! Jefferson also has great after school programs that are free! Dance, Art, Lego, Harry Potter club and chess to name a few. If you live in North Park and are looking at your neighborhood school and Jefferson is in your location you wont be disappointed I promise!

Posted: February 8, 2024

Posted: November 7, 2023

While I can wholeheartedly recommend this school for a neurotypical kid, I would think twice before sending a kid with Special Education needs. Note that the suspension rate for kids with disabilities is 7%, which is significantly higher than any of the neighboring schools. Our family experienced this personally and are still deeply unhappy with the way our child was treated at Jefferson.

Posted: June 11, 2019

We were blown away by the personal tour given by principal Morga. They focus on bringing STEAM skills to bear on international problems. Happy to have both our boys there next year.

Posted: May 18, 2018

We have one child that has an IEP and the school has made efforts to ensure he gets extra assistance in areas where he needs it.

Posted: May 18, 2018

Our three boys attend Jefferson and we're happy with their academic progress. We love that they attend a wonderful neighborhood school within walking distance. The teachers and staff are nurturing; they really care about the students and families. Our kids had the same teachers as they advanced and it has given us the opportunity to really get to know them. It's a wonderful little community with a great principal and office staff. Take a tour and see what the school has to offer in its IB and STEAM curriculum as well as the environment your child will be learning in. We don't think you will be disappointed.

Posted: May 18, 2018

The teachers are awesome! They are the heart and soul of the school and really care about the students and their development.

Posted: May 18, 2018

The IB learner profile is focused on the development of the whole student and nurturing curiosity, acting with integrity, and empathy for others.

Posted: May 18, 2018

The principal is awesome and extremely engaged with students, parents, and staff. He gets to know the students and families and is always helping out where needed.

Posted: April 15, 2018

Our daughter is in her second year at Jefferson and our son will start Kindergarten there in the fall. We couldn't be happier with the education our daughter has received, both in and out of the classroom. We're impressed with the IB and STEAM curriculum and the way it is incorporated into the classroom from Kindergarten on up - and in the "extras" they receive like the gardening, art and Spanish classes. Not only is our child learning important concepts about reading, math, science and social studies; she is also learning how to form a community with kids from different backgrounds and how to respect and learn from one another. The teachers and parents we've met are kind and excited for the kids and the school. The North Park community support has also been outstanding, including fundraisers at local NP businesses. Sending our children to Jefferson has been a great way to meet and get to know other families in North Park. Jefferson is a great school. We're glad we decided to take a tour and see what it's all about before looking outside our neighborhood.

Posted: April 15, 2018

The homework component has varied by teacher my daughter has had. In Kindergarten, she had reading and writing that needed to be completed each week and I appreciated that it allowed me to see what they were learning in school and where she was at. In first grade, she had no homework assigned, as the teacher believes kids should be active and playing after school, which I wholeheartedly agree with.

Posted: April 15, 2018

It's obvious that the teachers at this school care about the students and work hard to provide a good environment for everyone to learn at the pace appropriate for them. Many of the teachers have been at Jefferson for many years.

Posted: April 15, 2018

The IB learner profile traits are regularly incorporated into the curriculum in the classroom, the Monday morning assemblies, etc. My first grader understands concepts like patience and integrity, etc. in part because they are regularly used and discussed at school.

Posted: April 15, 2018

Principal Morga is outstanding. He goes out of his way to make sure new families feel welcome and clearly cares about Jefferson.

Posted: April 15, 2018

Posted: November 6, 2017

We have two children who began at Jefferson and are currently in 2nd and 3rd grade. All of the teachers here are very engaged with the kids. The STEAM and IB Programs are two programs that have been implemented extremely well and all of the teachers are dedicated to providing a diverse and well rounded education. We couldn't be happier with the hard work from the staff and the leadership and dedication from Mr. Morga, the principal. Additionally, we are part of the parents group Friends of Jefferson and we love all of the community support from our local business and the engagement and dedication of many of the parents to help make this school one of the best in San Diego. Send your kids local and don't read too deeply into test scores showing up here. Go to the school, meet the staff, meet other parents and get involved. I assure you that this will be a great place for your children.

Posted: November 6, 2017

Posted: October 11, 2017

My daughter comes home every Monday and can't wait to do her homework. I appreciate how careful the teachers are in not over assigning homework and are careful to make sure the homework is relevant.

Posted: October 11, 2017

It is obvious the teachers are caring and dedicated to the children they spend the day with. Thank you!

Posted: October 11, 2017

My introvert daughter is fast becoming a "risk taker" and volunteering to stand up in front of her class.

Posted: October 11, 2017

Principal Morga's enthusiasm is contagious! It is obvious that he and the staff are dedicated to making Jefferson a leader in education.

Posted: October 11, 2017

We have lived down the street from Jefferson for 16 years. We have watched it transform into one of the most progressive and forward thinking schools in the area. When we found out we were having our first child we knew she would attend Jefferson. She started this year and loves it! And I love that she and I can walk to and from school.

Posted: October 3, 2016

The teachers are highly trained, not only in the standard pedagogy, but also in the IB and STEAM curricula. There is a very low turnover rate and every teacher I have met has had a huge amount of affection and dedication to the school and students.

Posted: October 3, 2016

These characteristics are built in to the International Baccalaureate program, and are reinforced every day in class, at assemblies, and through signs and artwork on campus.

Posted: October 3, 2016

In the time that we have been at Jefferson, I have heard very few reports of bullying. It doesn't seem to be an issue there, which indicates to me that it is effectively dealt with.

Posted: October 3, 2016

Principal Morga is a force of nature! He is full of positive energy and he knows how to get things done. He has a great relationship with the kids, parents, and staff.

Posted: October 3, 2016

The school, at least at my child's grade level, have backed off on the homework load this year, and are making sure that the homework they do assign is relevant--not just busy work.