Echo Horizon School, PK-6 (Private)

Echo Horizon has provided our children with an excellent education for over ten years. The school s teaching methods put it right in the middle of that developmental vs. highly structured academic spectrum. The two of our children who have graduated were well-prepared for the very rigorous school they next attended, and we have no doubt the last will be as well. The families are down to earth and involved. In addition to providing a solid academic foundation, Echo Horizon faculty and staff work hard to instill in the children a sense of responsibility for themselves, others and the world around them.

This used to be a wonderful school. The years of weak administrative oversight have taken a toll of the quality of education and we can't wait for our last child to graduate out. The principal, knowing how difficult is to change schools and knowing that families will need her recommendation for middle school, is indifferent to parental concerns. Those that do complain are branded as troublemakers. It's too bad because it used to be a happy, unpretentious place to send your kid on the westside with a great mission. Now the school can't maintain enrollment and accepts anyone who applies. Many students come in with serious learning and or behavioral issues that can not be addressed in that setting. The rest of the kids are being quietly tutored for middle school, especially in math. There are some great teachers but many have left or are marginalized. Look elsewhere for now.

This gem of a school is an oasis in Los Angeles. It provides an incredibly nurturing environment with top notch educators, a state of the art facility, and amazing after-school programs. The Echo Horizon community is caring and conscientious, and we have been very proud to be an Echo family! Our daughter is so happy at Echo Horizon School, and we know she is getting an amazing education.

This school, though not officially 'traditional' in its academic approach, definitely falls on that side of the spectrum (with progressive/developmental being on the other end). While the teachers are caring, responsive, and communicative, the teaching is in the old model of: children sit still, listen while the teacher teaches, then do the worksheet/assignment according to the directions. The work is very 'cookie cutter,' so if you are looking for a school that nurtures creativity or personal expression, this is not the right place. The approach to discipline at EHS is authoritarian, with many 'sit outs' (time outs) and young children (kindergartners) being sent to the hall (alone). Conflict resolution consists of the adults deciding who is right and wrong, not listening to children's feelings, or letting them figure out how to resolve problems. Positive: community is vibrant, parents are invited, not pressured, to participate in many ways. Very accessible head of school.

We have had two children at this school and overall have been very pleased with it. The school is unpretentious by westside standards, the parent and staff community work very well together, and Paula Dashiell (Head of School) is a first rate educator who really believes in the educational principles practiced here. Some of the teachers at Echo are true artists in the education field. If you are looking for a hard charging, grinding academic environment with lots of testing, Echo Horizon is not be the choice for you. My only criticism is that the math curriculum should be more muscular and challenging, but overall this is a great school for high achievers and late bloomers alike. The upper grade overnight trips were wonderful growth experiences and the community really does feel like a family.

This is a wonderful, traditional nurturing school with enthusiastic, friendly parents. Teachers are excellent. Facility is beautiful-- a new additon has been completed for the fallof 2006 and there is a spacious park next door. Only drawback is lack of music and second language curriculum.

My son is in first grade and attended kindergarten at Echo Horizon School also. He loves it. The staff is very warm and friendly, and it's a high quality group of children and families.

Excellent teachers and staff. I'm never worried that my child will be lost in the shuffle. We've been there for three years, and are very happy. Terrific art, music and tech programs. In 2005 the school will be open, but under construction. An improved playground, and many expanded inside spaces will be created. Very involved parent body. Parents' work and dedication really make this school a special place.

Echo Horizon is a magnificent school. The teachers are friendly to both Children and Parent alike. They also do an excellent job of teaching as well in a colorful, fun, nurturing environment that posesses other knowledge craving students. The academics are top notch from what I have seen. School is not just limited to the classroom as many field trips are taken, and the school tries to adapt to all types of learners. In the lessons, they serve audiotry, visual, and kinestetic learners. Parents are involved in and run many commitees at the school. I am an alumni and we are currently looking for a High-school that has the same kind of magic that Echo Horizon did. Great School!!!!