Lake Forest Elementary School in El Dorado Hills

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	8/10	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: October 27, 2025

Need to get better at the bullying issue they have at this school and actually call the parents when it happens not wait to the end of the day and write on a paper about it. I'd rather get a call to actually here what happen.

Posted: October 27, 2025

Posted: April 11, 2024

My kids have gone through Lake Forest from TK-5. Lake Forest Elementary is a wonderful school. My children have thrived here. I will miss it after this year. The teachers have been fantastic and both of my kids are well prepared for middle school.

Posted: April 11, 2024

Posted: January 18, 2024

I have 2 children at Lake Forest Elementary and another who recently promoted. Although there have been some changes in leadership (one leaving to become a superintendent after many years at the school, and the other who it turned out was not a great fit), we have finally found a principal, Dr. Mallot, who is vested in the school, the kids, and the community. She immediately implemented some great ideas including student council, kids announcing news in the morning, STEM after school programs, a cool down room for kids who need it -- she hit the ground running. She also leads by example, never asking her staff to do something she wouldn't do herself. She's an advocate for gifted kids -- which will no doubt help our Academic Progress score increase since we already have above average test scores. She does a good job balancing and meeting the needs of the sometimes difficult-to-manage stakeholders. The parents seem happy, the teachers and staff seem more involved, and most importantly the kids are always put first. We also have supportive parents as evident by the PTC events and involvement. Overall, we are proud to be a part of this amazing school -- especially under this new administration!

Posted: January 18, 2024

Posted: January 16, 2024

Our child is in kindergarten so we are basing this off of six months of experience at Lake Forest. But we moved to this area for the great public schools and we are extremely pleased with the decision. Our kindergarten teacher is incredible, fostering a safe and challenging environment for kids by meeting them at their differing academic levels. There is always a school sponsored event for the families to attend. The after school enrichment classes for kids are ones I wish I could have taken growing up. And our principal is enthusiastic, transparent and inspiring.

Posted: January 16, 2024

Posted: October 18, 2023

Weve been at Lake Forest for four years and three principals, and this is the first year I can confidently say the administration is on the right track. The current principal is fantastic. Her approach is student-first, and she has been highly responsive in meeting individual student needs. She fosters a strong rapport with staff and demonstrates leadership to help navigate the complex teacher-student-family-PTC dynamics. Every teacher weve had has been a 10. Its clear the teachers here are passionate about what they do and have their students best interest in mind. The community here has been warm and inviting, and theres a high level of parent involvement. Overall, we are happy with the educational experience at Lake Forest.

Posted: October 18, 2023

Posted: May 11, 2023

So funny how a bad review all of sudden prompts a bunch of 5 stars? Almost like someone has spread word to review higher. The new principal is not a good fit for this school. She is not nice to the older children and many times my child came home to say she made another student cry. The principal wants to look the part and try and say the right things to parents but when it comes down to making the right decisions, she will not protect the students. Many many students do not feel safe at this school and dont look forward to going there.

Posted: May 11, 2023

Posted: May 4, 2023

There has been some sort of campaign recently to bring up the scores of this school raving about the principal and her abilities to run the school. I cant agree with most of it. The communications from her and the administration is terrible. Her ability to hear feedback is very poor. She places far more importance on her presence and extracurricular activities than academics. I havent heard one thing during this school year about trying to raise the academic performance of our kids, adding new programs and enrichment for the kids. There has been one math program to help prepare kids for middle school math, and the administration seems to be completely unaware of whats going on with it as its run outside of their offerings. I went into the office once when it first started and the office said they have no knowledge of the communications coming from the organizer. This math program has been the one bright point of the programming this year. That same day the principal was reminding parents about sports activities that afternoon. I am thrilled that my child is leaving Lake Forest for middle school after one year, and truly hope that there is a huge intervention and transformation of how she runs this elementary school for 2023-2024.

Posted: May 4, 2023

Posted: April 20, 2023

This was my childrens first full year at Lake Forest and I am so impressed by many thing: the principle, the garden program, parent involvement, the quality teachers my children have had, the campus energy, and the fun family and community events to name a few. My children are thriving here and we love being Lake Forest Lakers!

Posted: April 20, 2023

Posted: April 19, 2023

we love Lake Forest elementary school. Love the campus, teachers and the principle.

Posted: April 19, 2023

Posted: April 18, 2023

I have two children at Lakeforest and they love being there! The school is safe and the teachers are attentive and responsive and inclusive. Additionally, they have a great program to have those with special needs integrated into classrooms which is always a benefit to both those with special needs and those that dont require extra assistance. Ms. Vermette (principal) has been such a refreshing addition to the staff. My children currently have Mrs. Colter (3rd grade), who is fun but no nonsense and is such a pro, and Mrs. Reynoso (Kinder) who is such a great addition to the Lake Forest team. She is kind, firm, and organized and works so hard to make sure the kids are learning in a fun way so they retain it. I would recommend Lake Forest to anyone who is lucky enough to be able to enroll their children here.

Posted: April 18, 2023

Posted: April 17, 2023

We have been at LF for a few years and have loved it! The teaching staff is amazing! Our new principal is just what was needed.

Posted: April 17, 2023

Lake Forest is a great environment where students feel welcome. There is a great focus on social-emotional intelligence as well as making learning fun.

Posted: April 17, 2023

Posted: April 16, 2023

As a parent of three children who have attended Lake Forest Elementary, I cannot praise this institution enough for the incredible experience it has provided for my children and family. It has been a nurturing, inclusive, and academically enriching environment that has helped my children grow and flourish.

First, the quality of education at the school is top-notch. The curriculum is well-structured, and the teachers go above and beyond to ensure that students understand the material and apply it to real life situations. They provide individualized attention and tailor their teaching methods to cater to each child's specific needs, which has significantly impacted my children's learning and development.

One of the most impressive aspects of this school is the nurturing and supportive atmosphere it provides. The teachers and staff genuinely care for the students and are always available to address any concerns or issues that may arise. They have always gone out of their way to create a warm and welcoming environment for my children, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

The school's commitment to inclusivity is another aspect that makes it stand out. Lake Forest Elementary has a diverse student body, and the school does an exceptional job of celebrating and embracing the different cultures, religions, and backgrounds represented. My children have not only learned about different cultures but have also become more empathetic and compassionate individuals through their interactions with their peers.

In addition to academics, Lake Forest Elementary offers an array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts programs. These activities have allowed my children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. The school's focus on fostering well-rounded individuals is evident in the numerous opportunities it provides for students to grow and develop.

Another noteworthy aspect is the school's continuous emphasis on fostering a sense of community. Through events like the annual school carnival, parent-teacher conferences, and volunteer opportunities, Lake Forest Elementary has provided me with the chance to actively participate in my children's education and become part of a supportive and caring community.

In conclusion, Lake Forest Elementary has been nothing short of amazing for my children. It was an upgrade from our "10 out of 10" school back in the Bay Area.

Posted: April 16, 2023

Posted: April 13, 2023

Lake Forest Elementary is a wonderful school. We are in our second year here and have been so impressed by the community that comes together for this school. Our principal, Mrs. Vermette, is involved and puts in so much time and effort for our school. I am so grateful my children are at Lake Forest.

Posted: April 13, 2023

Posted: April 2, 2023

Lake Forest is so much more than a 6. Its a true neighborhood school with caring, supportive adults across all settings. Its so inclusive of all abilities! We love our school, love our teachers, and our new principal!

Posted: April 2, 2023

We came to this school when it was rated much higher and before we knew anything about different school ratings but over the last few years we've seen the ratings drop. In researching what could cause this we see that it has We came from a private school education and we had our doubts about coming to a public school. What we quickly learned is that the private school education we had been paying for was NOT properly preparing our child. He was behind his peers and we had no clue. We have loved the families we have have met and the amazing activities the school puts on all year long. I know that the memories they are creating with our kids will be treasured for a long time. The Teachers we have had have all been great for the most part, even in years when we have thought we didn't get the best teacher for that grade, we have found that we did have the best teacher for our child.

We got a new principal this year and we cant say enough great things about her. She was exactly what the school needed to really be a 10 in our eyes.
We had one of the first school districts in our area to go back to in school learning after the pandemic and we are so grateful to be in a community of like minded individuals who felt so strongly about the need to be back in school. This year they have added additional support to help catch up the students who fell behind during that time. Our new principal is easily accessible, reasonable and fair (even when its not always what a parent might want to hear) She has our students in the forefront of her mind. She also is at Drop off and pick up greeting the students (and parents) every single day rain or shine. She comes to all the events the school puts on and she PLAYS during break and lunch time with the students. I know the district made the right decision hiring her and my kids all love their new principal.

We have a special ed group on campus and we personally have loved having them there. The school had a special week about "demystifying differences" and we loved what our kids came home talking about. I have questioned whether the Special Day program being on campus has lowered our school rating with test scores but if that is the reason that is just ridiculous.

We will be sad to move on from this school when the time comes.

Posted: April 2, 2023

Posted: March 1, 2023

Weve now been at this school for multiple years and really cant say enough about how great the school and staff has been. The new principal is EXACTLY a what the school needed in every way. The classroom sizes are great never over crowded, the teachers have all been great. The campus is older and could use some updating but I can tell you for certain my children dont notice those things and they are getting a great education. We came from a private school and are very happy with the education, support and community here at lake forest! We love love Mrs Vermette, the front office staff and the kids teachers. What more could we ask for?

Posted: March 1, 2023

Posted: April 21, 2022

The communication at this school is terrible! Parent onboarding is non-existent. Everyone assumes because they've always had a certain event, or because something has always been done this way that everyone should just know. No extra details or information need to be provided. All communications are supposed to go out electronically, but a lot of the very important ones are sent home with the kids in a blue folder. The first time I ever saw a blue folder was February!!!! I receive electronic communications from the school multiple times a week, and still have no idea what is going on. Every. Single. Solitary. Week I get a text message reminding me that "Wednesday is early dismissal", but school events and extracurriculars get one notice (if that). And those notices usually come very late, sometimes 2 days ahead of the deadline. The school says all of its flyers are online, but good luck finding them. And any reminder emails reference attachments in previous emails rather than reattaching.

Poor communication seems like it would be a very small part of the overall school experience. But as a parent these school communications are MY ONLY personal interaction with the school. I don't walk into the classroom, see what's written on the whiteboard, interact with the teacher and/or administrators, and hear from them what's going on. My kid gets to experience that, but I don't. Part of the administration's responsibility is creating a school community; students, teachers, administration, and parents. There may be a thriving community that I am unaware of. But if there is, it's despite the administration's efforts not because of it.

Posted: April 21, 2022

Posted: May 5, 2021

Moved from larger schools to LF and appreciated smaller class sizes and neighborhood feel. The teachers we've had have all been wonderful. Each has recognized strengths and weaknesses and I feel challenged or reviewed appropriately. Leveled instruction for above level and students struggling was available and made a difference in my student's progress. I appreciate teachers that we've had were transparent about level progression, ie, math pathways into middle school, what expectations and opportunity would be for language, music, and science after elementary school. Previously I've felt "what your child will need to know" for future placements was a guarded secret. Our LF teachers identified strengths and challenges and then laid out what that means, or could mean later. Regarding HW, I feel LF has been fair. I think some re enforcement of school day is beneficial, if not for student but for me to wrap my head around what students are doing, so long as not too repetitive. Practice assignments, reports, or presentations to practice at home have drawn me into what is being taught in a way I would not have, if everything were completed at school. I like Jupiter Grades, if it is adjusted or explained so single entries do not "grade panic" a student. It has taught my child to check their grades and assignment status as it will be expected in middle school. It also leads to few surprises at progress/report cards. While the principal is less involved than we've worked with before, he was responsive and approachable. He did not claim to know our kids better than we do, which I have also experienced before when schools make class choices or program placements. I have witnessed, and heard from my student, about discipline for "bullying" behavior and felt it was timely and appropriate. Librarian is wonderful. Student population have been friendly-- students feel "younger," in a good way, than some other schools I have interacted with. On the negative, more school spirit around student events would be beneficial. COVID threw a wrench in year but I believe school could have been more engaged, connected. I feel the PTC tries to do these things with little overall school support. My impression is that the teachers could use more support to feel part of the LF "team." I would look to some local school(s) that seem to have stronger school connectivity & spirit for ideas.

Posted: May 5, 2021

Posted: July 28, 2020

We dont have experience in this area.

Posted: July 28, 2020

Our children love Lake Forest. They have learned and grown so much. The teachers are excellent and very engaged.

Posted: July 28, 2020

Posted: February 12, 2020

This school has been wonderful, my daughter has been here 3 years and every teacher shes had has been wonderful

Posted: February 12, 2020

Posted: October 5, 2019

I do not have a special needs child at this school

Posted: October 5, 2019

We are getting better. One effort that could help us to deal with this issue is to address the covert parent to parent bullying that has been evident in the past couple of years. Children learn what they live.

Posted: October 5, 2019

Changes are happening this year between the school admin and PTO. Its nice to take part in events and activities that are clearly supported by faculty, staff, admin and parents alike. The historic divide has done damage to the sense of all-for-one and one-for-all, but we are getting back there!

Posted: October 5, 2019

Current research suggests that homework at the elementary grade level is not effective and actually works against the students academic performance. The exception is reading - children should read and/or be read to daily for 20/30 minutes. The rest of it is an exercise of futility and a battle of the wills.

Posted: October 5, 2019

In the years weve been here, theres only one teacher that reaps the same feed back from her students parents, and it isnt good. With that exception, teachers are dedicated to their students success, compassionate and caring. The kids love their teachers, which says a lot!

Posted: October 5, 2019

Like most schools these days, every effort possible should be made to develop and strengthen the character of our kids. There are definitely bullies at this school, but thats the case everywhere. A counselor was added to the faculty last year and it has helped.

Posted: October 5, 2019

I read the other comments about the principal and Ill say this about it: Theres a lot more than meets the eye! Do not believe everything you read - go see for yourself. And while youre there, be very selective of those from whom you take information. Theres an agenda there and its not in the best interest of the kids.

Posted: June 22, 2018

The principal only superficially supports efforts aimed at strengthening character, and only after complaints from parents. Leading by example is important, and when it comes to character the principal does not lead.

Posted: June 22, 2018

The principal is actively hostile towards programs and people that aim to improve the school - parents that volunteer and teachers that go out of their way to do special work. The net result is a negative effect on everyone, where people stop trying and stop caring.

Posted: June 22, 2018

While some teachers have taken an interest in addressing bullying, the principal has been hostile towards suggestions that bullying occur and takes any such suggestion as a criticism of him. He has done very little to acknowledge let alone address this issue.

Posted: June 22, 2018

Many of the teachers are great and parents at this school are very engaged, but the leadership is a complete failure. Unfortunately, many students and even some teachers have left the school as a result.

Posted: June 22, 2018

Posted: October 26, 2013

The teachers are prettygood, but the Principle has no idea! So glad we took our child out of this school and sent him to a different.

Posted: September 19, 2013

Incredible kindergarten program--night and day from what we experienced at another local public school for our son. Both teachers are engaged and enthusiastic. They create a wonderful learning environment in the classroom and beautifully address learning for the whole child. So pleased over the small class size and the fact that there are two teachers working together in the classroom plus lots of parent volunteer support. Not as pleased with the practice of using combo classes at the upper grades. This practice is unfair for students who have to make do with half of the regular instructional time and teachers who have a huge workload in planning, prepping, etc. for two different grade levels. In spite of efforts on the schools' part to ameliorate this situation, combo classes just don't work and the children pay a price. The district needs to step up to address this problem, either by reducing class size or hiring full-time aides to assist teachers assigned to combo classes.

Posted: August 8, 2013

Lake Forest Elementary has a fantastic group of teachers! It also has a very active Parent Teacher Association and a lot of great/friendly families that are willing to pitch in/help make their children's school phenomenal. We have been super happy with this school.

Posted: January 5, 2012

Lake Forest is an awesome school. We pulled our child out of another school in the district and transferred him here 2 years ago. It is a longer drive each day, but the instruction and school are worth it. Mr Peters is a wonderful involved principal. He responds to your concerns quickly and is always willing to help. They do a great Veteran Day program each year honoring our country and those who have fought for it. Among the best in the region!!

Base	Distance
Coast Guard Sacramento	17 mi.
Beale AFB	32.1 mi.

Lake Forest Elementary School

El Dorado Hills, CA 95762

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Lake Forest Elementary School

El Dorado Hills, CA 95762

School Ratings

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