Testimonials

“Enrolling my son at Sycamore is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made as a parent. Previously, he was in second grade at a local charter school and his light was growing dimmer by the day. He never looked forward to school, was opting out of classwork, and was often dismayed by his teacher who heavily relied on screens to teach and was often angry at or disappointed in her students. Everything has changed at Sycamore. I have my bright, happy, engaged child back. He goes to school with a smile and comes home even happier. He loves the field trips, chess and Spanish, and has made so many new friends. He also loves his teachers. As a parent, I love the community: the staff, the teachers, the families. We feel like we belong here. Mrs. McQueen is truly one-of-a-kind. She knows every child and parent personally. We all love that it is a small school. Sycamore is the kind of place that feels too good to be true. I only wish we enrolled sooner.”

“As parents, you hope to find a school where your child not only feels accepted and challenged, but truly loves being there each day. That’s exactly what we found at Sycamore Community School. Our son is excited to go to school every morning, and he has formed the most wonderful friendships that mean so much to him. What makes Sycamore truly special is the community. The teachers, staff, and families create an environment that is incredibly warm, supportive, and deeply invested in every child. As a room parent and someone who has served on several committees, I’ve seen firsthand the care and intention that goes into making Sycamore such a joyful and nurturing place to learn and grow.”

“Having taught middle school many years ago, I was nostalgic to see the classroom at Grandfriends day. I loved your classroom, the students, and the ambience of your entire school. What a true labor of love the faculty displayed. I can see why my grandaughter loves to come to school, loves her teachers, and loves to learn!”

 “While at Sycamore, our son was encouraged to step out of his comfort zone and try new things. Who knew he would perform in the Hamilton musical, join the debate team, the track and field team, and become a chess enthusiast. Not to mention become friends with students of all ages, including kindergarteners and first graders, many of whom he has tutored. These confidence building experiences, along with countless excursions in and around Santa Monica and the greater Los Angeles community, has prepared him to become an engaging citizen of the world and a passionate ambassador of Mother Earth.”

“My daughter has thrived beyond our expectations at Sycamore Community School. She was enrolled in several schools before we decided to take a chance on this brand-new school, and we could not be more impressed. Although the school is small, we have seen enrollment quadruple in just four years, adding a rich, fulfilling, dynamic sense of community with each new family. The students take pride in developing an understanding of agency by effectively communicating with their teachers when they need help and harnessing the power within to positively impact the younger students, their peers, the school, and the greater community.”

“I could write an entire essay about why we love Sycamore. But to thin it down: Sycamore is not just a school; it is a community; it is a tribe. And I could not have asked for a better group of people to help me raise my son. He is thriving and looks forward to going to school each and every day.”

“Parents seek schools blending city vibrancy and nature’s calm; Sycamore surpasses every expectation. Our child, alongside peers campus-wide are deeply engaged, laser-focused, solutions-driven, know what friendships mean, value community, and shine with optimism. Here, learning fuses with real-world impact, fueled by stellar teachers and a principal who inspires daily self-leadership and a vision implemented of what education could be like when willing to innovate and bring from the best growth mindset lessons. We love Sycamore Community School’s foundation, where students are seen and stretched to their fullest potential to be impactful academically as well as future positive influences.”

“Sycamore Community School has been an incredible place for both Max and Leo, and we could not be more grateful for the environment they’ve grown into. They are truly thriving—not only academically, but as well‑rounded, curious, confident young learners. What we appreciate most is how Sycamore goes far beyond core academics. Max and Leo are challenged each day with rigorous, engaging instruction that keeps them motivated and excited to learn. At the same time, the school intentionally nurtures their development across the fine arts, science, music, theater, and sports. This balanced approach has helped them discover new interests, build confidence, and understand the value of creativity and exploration alongside strong academic habits. As parents, we’ve also found something unexpected and incredibly meaningful: a true community. Sycamore has connected us with like‑minded families who share our values around education, curiosity, kindness, and raising well‑rounded kids. The friendships we’ve formed—with teachers, staff, and fellow parents—have made us feel supported, welcomed, and deeply connected. It’s a rare and wonderful feeling to know your children are in a place where your whole family belongs. Sycamore’s teachers and staff genuinely see the whole child. The support, encouragement, and enrichment opportunities provided have allowed Max and Leo to grow not just as students, but as thoughtful, well‑rounded individuals. We couldn’t imagine a better community for them, and we’re so grateful for the impact the school continues to have on their lives.”

“Sycamore Community School has created a balanced learning environment that is rigorous, supportive, and fun. It truly brings its mission statement to life, fostering a community that has helped my children grow into lifelong learners.”