The beginning of April is an exciting time for San Marino High School seniors, as they make their final decisions about which college they will attend in the fall. Our kids are extremely privileged to receive a San Marino education. Our school system is known internationally, is ranked as the number one school district in California, and thoroughly prepares our students for the world of higher education. An extremely high percentage of our students go on to four year college, and the matriculation list is extremely impressive. They attend colleges and universities throughout the world, including Harvard, Stanford, UCLA, USC, and so many more.

A San Marino education is rigorous from the beginning, but each day is also filled with exciting experiences, a rich assortment of subject matter, and a high level of skilled instruction. Throughout every grade, a high percentage of San Marino kids perform at a superior level, but most of them don’t even realize that they are out-performing their peers in other communities throughout the country. They are so engaged in the routine and activities of their classroom that learning comes easily.

Although San Marino High School is the district’s crowning glory, a San Marino education starts way before high school. My kids were lucky to attend San Marino schools for most of their educational experience. I was closely involved with their early education, spending time in the classroom throughout their elementary school years. This is where it all begins. Every year of instruction builds upon itself, all with the purpose of educating the whole child and preparing them for the next year of challenges.

The success of the San Marino Unified School District can be attributed to a variety of factors, but our remarkable teaching staff is at the top of the list. Especially during their elementary years, my kids built strong and lasting relationships with their teachers that enabled them to reach new heights of success. One teacher who was involved with them throughout their elementary experience, is Yvonne Mejia, the Physical Education teacher at Carver School. P.E. at Carver is a big deal, and Mrs. Mejia trains her students that her class is as important as any academic subject. The program is well thought out, encourages the kids to love physical activity, and is filled with creative variety. Mrs. Mejia gets to know each and every one of her students and encourages them to become the best they can be. My kids not only looked forward to P.E. each and every day, but they were highly impacted by Mrs. Mejia’s instruction, character training, and kind encouragement. I am convinced that they will carry warm memories of her throughout their lives.

As homeowners, we must remember that our famous San Marino schools are vital to our excellent property values. I just sold a wonderful home on Lombardy Road and experienced a huge response from hungry buyers. Each buyer who submitted an offer was looking in San Marino exclusively. San Marino is an exceptionally beautiful and safe community, which is filled with wonderful architectural homes. This is not what completely sets us apart, though. Savvy San Marino buyers realize that our community provides the whole package. The ability to own a beautiful home in a safe neighborhood AND have the benefit of a top-notch school system is what makes us truly great.

I know that we pay high property taxes and are regularly asked to donate to our San Marino Schools Foundation. Especially in a difficult economy, these extra costs can feel frustrating and burdensome. Keep in mind, though, that these costs are minor in comparison to the up-side of owning a San Marino home. As citizens of our outstanding community, we should all bind together in support of our greatest resource - our schools.