JONAS SALK ELEMENTARY

California Distinguished School

Purple Star School since 2021

Our Focus: STEAM and Character Education

At Jonas Salk Elementary, our educational foundation is rooted in STEM — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — honoring the innovative spirit of Dr. Jonas Salk and supporting the evolving needs of our nation. Yet, as noted in The Washington Post, “STEM is incredibly valuable, but if we want the best innovators, we must [also] teach the arts.” Embracing this philosophy, we proudly integrate art, music, and dance into our curriculum, transforming STEM into STEAM — a holistic approach that nurtures creativity alongside critical thinking.

Building Character, Community, and Military Support

Character Education is at the heart of our mission. Guided by Dr. Salk’s wisdom that “Our greatest responsibility is to be good ancestors,” we are dedicated to fostering integrity, empathy, and civic responsibility in every student. This year, our Character Development Program is grounded in Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits +1 and the “No Place for Hate” initiative. Together, these frameworks promote leadership, inclusivity, and kindness — key components of the Jonas Salk Elementary Spirit.

Our character and service-learning initiatives encourage students to live our school’s core values, make responsible decisions, and use their voices to create positive change. Through teamwork, reflection, and action, we cultivate a strong sense of community and purpose across our campus.

We are also proud to be recognized as a Purple Star School since 2021, honoring our commitment to supporting military-connected students and families through recognition, connection, and care.

 



Our Mission

Our mission at Jonas Salk Elementary is to ensure that every student embraces learning and reaches their fullest potential in a safe, orderly, and nurturing environment.

We strive to:

  • Engage students in a high-quality, standards-based instructional program that inspires effort, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
  • Empower students to develop strong character and use their actions and voices to make a positive impact in the world.
  • Collaborate with educators, families, and the community to enhance achievement through communication, teamwork, and technology.

Together, we are shaping future innovators and compassionate citizens — one learner at a time.

Our first students at JSES present to the Board of Education:

Watch Jonas Salk students present to the Board of Education on April 26, 2016.

Student presentation slide show.


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