Explore Elementary

Check our Calendar for dates and times.

Choosing an Elementary School
September 30, 2024

Selecting a school is one of the most important decisions a parent will make, yet myth and misperception often cloud our conversations about schools. Do state test scores adequately measure academic rigor? What about enrichment programs, diversity, and school culture? Of course you want your child’s school to offer a strong academic program, but that isn’t the only factor influencing your decision, nor should it be. This popular program is presented in person by PUSD parent and Associate Professor of Education at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Dr. Jennifer Miyake-Trapp. Dr. Trapp has more than a decade of experience in K-12 public schools. The presentation will be followed by a meet-and-greet with current PUSD parents available to share their perspectives and answer questions.

Audio Recording of PEN’s Choosing an Elementary School program

Bonus feature: “What Do I Really Want from My Child’s Education” worksheet!

Navigating Open Enrollment in PUSD
December 2024 - virtual program

Families in any grade level in Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre may apply for admission to PUSD schools other than their assigned neighborhood school through the Open Enrollment school choice process. Students are accepted based on availability and a random lottery process. PEN representatives explain the process and the timelines. A question and answer session follows. View a recording of the 2023 program in English or Spanish. The slide presentation is available here. Information presented at this program, including dates and answers to frequently asked questions can be found on PUSD’s Open Enrollment page. If you cannot find what you are looking for, contact us.

School Coffees

Check our calendar and the PEN News for opportunities to meet with parents from specific schools.

_MGL0075-smaller.JPEG