Here at Carmel, all of our activities, programs, events, and policies are designed to address one of three concepts: academic performance, individual character, and community service.

At Carmel, student achievement comes first.  While we realize that every student has his or her own individual needs, we strive to ensure that every Carmel student is working at grade level and is making continuous academic growth from year to year.  Student achievement is measured in various ways, from teacher observation, to our District Benchmark Tests, to the annual STAR Tests.  Data from these various assessments is used to continually improve and modify classroom instruction.  Carmel’s most recent API score, which is a tool used by the state to rate school performance, stands at 797.  This is a 15-point increase from 2008, and ranks us fourth among Hesperia elementary schools.

Academic performance, though, is only part of what it takes to be a top-notch student.  Carmel Cougars are expected to display the character traits that will help them be successful in any setting.  Carmel’s “Magnificent Seven” Behavior Standards include:

• Treating one another with kindness and respect

• Learning the names of all staff members

• Greeting visitors and making them feel welcome

• Remembering to show appreciation to others for gifts or kindnesses

• Recognizing and appreciating the accomplishments of others

• Keeping our school and community clean

• Being organized

We also believe that it is a responsibility of Carmel’s staff and students to get involved in our community.  Providing “real world” service opportunities for our kids will help them grow as citizens as well as students.  Over the past four years, Carmel staff and students have:

• Raised over $5000 for the American Diabetes Association

• Contributed $3100 to the construction of the Hesperia Public Library

• Adopted a one-mile stretch of Choiceana Avenue to keep clean

• Raised money and goods for the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House

• Created “Carmel’s Closet” to provide clothing to families

Thank you again for your interest in Carmel Elementary School.  We hope to see you here soon!

Sincerely,

Chris Mauger, Principal