good elementary schools in Portland (apartment, transfer, neighborhoods)

[reno-ite]

We are researching a move to Portland, and I thought I read a post that included a link to data about schools and rankings. A friend from Seattle discouraged us from moving to Oregon, saying that the schools were not great, but I can't imagine that this could be the case across the board. There's always good schools. We are trying to find family friendly neighborhoods with good schools. Any info would be great. Thanks

[pacowang]

my family moved to portland earlier this year (i am still stcuk in michigan but will be joining them in early november). i have 2 kids- one is in 3rd grade, the other in kindergarten. both of them go to buckman elem, which is in SE portland. in michigan, we lived in a city with one of the best school districts in the state. yet, my kids seem to make the transition quite well (my daughter went to a montessori preschool) and -GASP- even enjoy going to school! buckman has a high focus on arts and music. i learned that buckman has a very high transfer rate (almost 80%) of students enrolled. i was told that there are not many children living within the school's zones (we happened to get an apartment that was within the boundary). nevertheless, the school must be doing things quite correctly if it has that high of a transfer rate.

[PDXmom]

Originally Posted by pacowang

i learned that buckman has a very high transfer rate (almost 80%) of students enrolled. i was told that there are not many children living within the school's zones (we happened to get an apartment that was within the boundary). nevertheless, the school must be doing things quite correctly if it has that high of a transfer rate.

It has a high transfer rate because it is a magnet school with a small "neighborhood" community. Sounds like you live in that small neighborhood. The rest of the school applies to a lottery for spots.

Other good Elementaries in Portland are: Llewellyn Elementary, Duniway, Laurelhurst, Alameda, Irvington, Chapman.

The state of Oregon has had issues with stable school funding. But the parents at the schools listed above makes sure their schools and kids get what they need. But high parental involvement is encouraged and somewhat expected by the other parents... the schools can't expect it.

My oldest attened Llewellyn for K & 1st grade before we moved. We loved that school. Highly committed teachers and parents. I did get tired of the constant fund raising for art and music etc. But those parents are amazingly committed.

I highly encourage you to visit the schools and email or talk to the PTAs at the schools you are looking at.

Good luck!