San Rafael Elementary School
Established in 1918, San Rafael Elementary School is located in the San Rafael Hills of Pasadena, California and is one of the oldest public schools in Pasadena. Today, it is the only public school in West Pasadena. Like most Pasadena Unified School District schools, San Rafael has in the past experienced low attendance of the neighborhood, with a significant number of parents opting for private education. A number of times the school was slated for closure due to the low turnout and low test scores. However, in 2009, PUSD established a Dual Language Immersion Program in Spanish and English at the school, and the result has been increased enrollment from across the district and a return to the school by neighborhood families. With the advent of the Dual Language Immersion Program and increased support from parents and the local community, the school is currently experiencing a renaissance. There was a 20 percent increase in enrollment from 2010 to 2011. As of 2017, the facility educates approx. 650 students and 21 - 33 students per class.
| San Rafael Elementary School | |
|---|---|
| Information | |
| Type | Elementary school |
| Opened | 1918 |
| School district | Pasadena Unified School District |
| NCES District ID | 062994004686 |
| Superintendent | Dr. Brian McDonald |
| Grades | K-5 |
Trivia
- The school displays a Victorian design that has been the pictured in several movies including Liar, Liar and Bruce Almighty.
- The school mascot is the panda.
- The school's face has been used in a scene for Mad Men