Susan Hodge, Principal
Sonia Colon, School Secretary
2800 Forest Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone: (510) 644-6891
Michelle Miguelez, Coordinator
Berkeley LEARNS After School Program
Phone: (510) 883-5247
Situated within blocks of the University of California, Berkeley, Emerson serves 275 students from kindergarten through fifth grade in a small, intimate school environment. Our diverse student population includes African American, Hispanic, and Caucasian families as well as families from many different countries. You can hear 15 different languages spoken on the playground. Emerson students live in University student housing, subsidized apartments, middle class homes, and million dollar mansions. Our student body includes children whose parents are students and professors at the university, children of middle and working class parents, and children whose parents are living in poverty. Though the range is great, we are united in our commitment to quality urban public school education, and in our conviction that our diversity is an incredible asset, enriching every aspect of our school experience.
The outstanding academic achievement of our student is dramatic evidence of our success. We have a rich tradition of academic excellence. For the last two years we have scored over 800 on the API, receiving a 9 when compared to schools statewide and a 10 when compared to schools with similar population features. Of the top 100 scoring schools of similar features, we are second. We take great pride in this academic accomplishment and attribute much of it to our extraordinary staff and their high level of talent, collaboration, and teamwork. They share a passion for teaching and are dedicated to reaching the needs of each child through best instructional practices, meaningful assessment, and thought provoking curriculum.
Their enthusiasm and dedication reach out to, and welcome, all Emerson families and permeate the strong array of support programs. Our After School Program (Kid's World) offers enrichment classes, homework support, and its staff works closely with classroom teachers to ensure that the children experience a seamless, supportive day at Emerson. Our unique Mentoring Program brings 120 mentors from the University and community at large to the school each week to work with over 44% of our students and the Berkeley Mental Health Project provides much needed counseling and support for students and families in crisis. Our active parent community also gives tirelessly to support the growth and well being of all students by fundraising and sponsoring wonderful free, fun-filled family events such as Hip Hop Night, Salsa Night, and the Spring Fling.
You can feel the spirit of Emerson by just walking down the halls listening to the passing greetings between students and adults. Visit a classroom where students are actively engaged in learning. Come to a monthly All School meeting and be amazed at the student performances, the citizenship awards, the Bear Cub News video. Witness one of the many outrageous teacher skits and songs that appear throughout the year and you'll know that you've found a remarkable school that not only values academic rigor but nurtures a feeling of family and community. At Emerson, academic achievement is an everyday occurrence, as is joy.