based on 7 reviews
Sea Crest
901 Arnold Way
Half Moon Bay, CA
94019
(650) 712-9892
http://www.seacrestschool.org
By: parent
Date: May, 2007
A red flag should go up when a school has a very high turnover rate in all areas - students, faculty, and administration. SeaCrest's young life has been plagued by turnover, spotty talent in the teacher pool, inconsistency in leadership and parent 'involvement' that is often disruptive. Having experienced both SeaCrest (for several years) and public school, we have found SeaCrest to compare unfavorably to a top rated public school in most areas. In our experience (left <1yr ago), SeaCrest's math and language arts programs are set such that a student capable of more than standard curriculum is missing an opportunity. Saying the school has a functioning library is a big stretch. Science lab is all but nonexistent in lower grades. Technology program could be stronger. Prospective families should evaluate and decide whether their money might be better spent on a house in a neighborhood with a good public school.
By: parent
Date: April, 2007
The academic programs at this school are strong and stimulating. The music program is excellent. The current head of school appears to be demonstrating strong leadership and is finally taking on the issues around bullying. The social climate is challenging. If your child has interests that involve baseball, soccer, basketball or dance and horses (for girls) and is of average or better weight/appearance, he/she will probably fit right in. If your child does not fit this description, he/she may struggle to find friends or break into the cliques.
By: parent
Date: April, 2007
My child has been at Sea Crest for five years now and his educational experience has been superior. He loves school and is a confident, caring, successful student. The small class environment combined with the exposure to the drama and arts is worth the tuition alone. At Sea Crest he receives PE daily, music, art, drama, Spanish, and technology. Add those classes up and the tuition is very reasonable. Finally, in addition to the excellent academics our child has come to understand and live by The Guiding Principles. A code of conduct established a few years ago which states: 1)We are each other keepers. 2) I leave it better than I found it. 3) I do nothing to harm myself or others. 4) I am responsible for my behavior. 5) I take pride in myself and in my work. That is what makes this school so unique and special!
By: parent
Date: April, 2007
Overall academics are pretty good, and getting better. Some teachers are outstanding, others only OK. Specials (art, music, drama) are excellent, and a big plus. Social atmousphere is competitive, clique-y and 'noveau riche.' You can find down-to-earth people here but they're on the fringes. The major social events revolve around alcohol, which is good for fund-raising but problematic if you don't enjoy drinking to excess. Although my child has enjoyed the academics and teaching, he finds the social atmosphere competitive and harsh.
By: parent
Date: March, 2007
Sea Crest has had fits and starts becoming established in the community. It's expensive so the student population tends towards wealthy Caucasians. Teacher quality, in general, is good. Constant dunning of parents for donations while touting its low-cost compared to other private academies. I do not recommend Sea Crest unless you have endless cash and high tolerance for small-town politics.
By: parent
Date: January, 2007
This is our fifth year at Sea Crest and we couldn't be happier. Our children are enjoying their time in school, and their progress is amazing. The academic program is comprehensive to begin with, but the school also offers art, drama, music and technology enrichment. The atmosphere at the school is warm and friendly, and there is a high level of parent involvement. It's fun to be in the classroom and see all the exciting projects underway--so different from when I was a child. Honestly, I wish I could have gone to Sea Crest School.
By: parent
Date: January, 2005
I think Sea Crest school provides quality academic programs. I am slightly concerned about the math program. Music and art program are excellent. I love the small class sizes. Teachers know all the kids and there is a close relationship between them. There is a high level of parent involvement.
