Andres and Maria Cardenas Elementary School

I hate to say but even tho I loved my daughter’s teacher this review is based on my experience with events and office staff. They would never start the event on the said times. I would always be waiting like 15 or more minutes past the supposed starting time. Also Edith from the front office is very rude. She always seems to be on a mood even with the rest of the staff. I am not sure why She is still there. Many parents have said It. Other than that The building is new and the school looks safe.

I loved this elementary but I’ve graduated and I now got to James Madison middle school I miss all the teachers there the after school programs were fun I remember the cheer leading team

As far as public schools go, this is a pretty darn good school.
The newly built Andres and Maria Cardenas Elementary School opened two years ago as Valley Region Elementary School #9. This is a K through 5^th grade school, but they also have limited state-​funded preschool — be sure to sign-​up early!
Our son started here in 1^st grade earlier this school year. His teacher, Ms. Sousa, has been a wonderful and encouraging mentor. I don’t know how she (and the other teachers) have the energy and enthusiasm to keep up with them! We also feel very fortunate to have a teacher and school that is big on communication. Our son’s teacher won’t hesitate to call or email us with concerns or updates and she quickly responds to our own communications.
As nice as all the contact and communication is, it’s not perfect and it would be better if they were able to provide more advanced notice of events, short days, etc. Sometimes you get a notice the day before something happens. Sometimes you don’t get any notice at all (it all depends on the teacher passing out the letters and your kid remembering to bring them home). If it’s a significant event, LAUSD will call you with an automated recording the night before.
Don’t hesitate to call the front office with questions. The staff in the front office is friendly and knowledgeable, although they can get busy and overwhelmed during peak hours (just before and after school). You are also welcome to call the teachers shortly after school. Or can call the office and leave a message to arrange a parent-​teacher meeting before or after school.
Like most schools, I imagine, there are a lot of fund raising requests sent to parents here. Everything from candy bar sales, cookies sales, multiple school photos, year books, book sales, school shirts, etc. Not to mention special projects and events that need extra funding. Given the constant budget cuts, it’s to be expected, but it can seem a little excessive to be asked for money every 3 or 4 weeks.
This school is very good about security and rules. No adults are allowed onto the campus without checking in with the front office and obtaining pass. They often have assemblies, meetings and even parent classes — how cool! This particular school has a lot of information and opportunities for low income families, ranging from health care to and free lunches and an after school program.
When dropping off or picking up your children, there is a long stretch of curb for convenience and safety, but please keep it moving (think LAX). It’s not for sitting around and holding up traffic! Also, be careful not to double park for even a second — law enforcement has been quick to issue citations!
The neighborhood in this area has a lot of street parking, but you may have to walk a block or two. If it also important to note that there is not a sidewalk on Calhoun between the school and Hart Street. However, I think they are planning on putting one in soon. Check street signs when parking on the street.
Bottom line, this is a quality school that has a lot of potential for turning education around in the area. Let’s just hope the district provides them with the budget they need to keep doing great things.