Sunset Valley Elementary

I was so disappointed in this school. We sent our child for the dual language program. At first, we loved the school, the teachers and the community. The exposure to another language for our child was wonderful. As our child began to advance through the grades we were incredibly disappointed with the academics. Every teacher we had worked incredibly hard but it wasn’t enough. The dual language model was not followed very well. Even within the same grade the curriculum had very little consistency. This made it really hard to gauge the true performance of the dual language program. Once Spanish language arts was introduced in the second grade it became clear that our child would not be even remotely close to “fluent by middle school”. We went in with the knowledge that the program would progress as the kids advanced through elementary school. We were willing to be patient with the program. I was not prepared for the subpar academics across all subjects. Now that our child has moved to another school (just one year removed) it is very clear that SSV was struggling to keep up in all academic areas.

We love SSVE and the dual language program.

We drive past one of the top ranked AISD schools that is closed to transfers and less than 1/2 block from our house, to take our son to Sunset Valley Elementary School for their dual language program. Although we sought SSVE for the Spanish, we have discovered incredibly involved and caring teachers and staff (including Principal Kim Placker and Vice Principal Emily Bush). We have also enjoyed learning the true culture behind so many of our first generation Americans.

Since becoming a Dual Language school, a large number of very involved parents have arrived and have made a huge difference in turning this school around. Kids that attend Sunset Valley elementary will have a huge advantage over the kids from most of the public and private schools in the Austin area. Speaking and writing in both English and Spanish will be so beneficial for these kids as they get older. It is a shame that more schools in America do not implement foreign language programs at a younger age.

The influx of very involved parents that seek out diversity and culture and drive their kids to a program for a second language also brings about a significant improvement in assistance for the teachers and staff ultimately resulting in rising test scores and academic ranking. The kids in the dual language program at SSVE are just now old enough to begin their standardized testing, and will not be too long before we see a large jump on the ranking of Sunset Valley Elementary.

I sincerely hope that, if you are researching schools for your children and if you value diversity and culture, you will consider Sunset Valley Elementary and at least pay a visit to the school and meet with the staff and parent volunteers. It has been such a rich and rewarding experience for us. : )

Teachers at SSV are dedicated, loving and very supportive. My children are thriving at SSV in the dual language program.

My daughter is in 1st grade at SVE, and it has been a wonderful experience. She is in the dual language program and we have been very impressed with the program and the school. From the principal, the teachers, counselor to houskeeping there is a strong sense of community and dedication to the students. I feel that my participation and involvement in my childs education is welcome and encouraged. And I really appreciate that!