What Makes
Mission Special?

The Open Philosophy

Mission Avenue Open Elementary School embraces the idea of hands-on learning. The unique nature of the Mission culture is largely based on experiential activities, none of which would be possible without the active participation of our Mission families. 

Mission Avenue Open is guided by the Open Philosophy. At its most basic level, this refers to the notion that all children should be recognized as unique beings with their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, we strive to create a well rounded elementary experience that instills not only the academic foundation for success, but also the knowledge and character required to make success a reality. Read more about Mission's Open Philosophy. 

Hands-on Learning

From the moment children enter Transitional Kindergarten at Mission, they are taught in an interactive environment. Teacher-led instruction is followed by experiential activities that reinforce the concepts taught. Additional reinforcement occurs through the many field trip opportunities provided to Mission students. This depth of learning is only achieved with active parent and caregiver participation, not only in the classroom but at home as well.

Students at Mission are regularly given confidence building opportunities though classroom presentations and on stage performance. Beginning in Transitional Kindergarten children are encouraged to speak in front of their peers, to share experiences, and exhibit learned principals. This immediate exposure to public speaking provides a foundation of confidence in a safe environment. Each subsequent grade builds upon that confidence through several projects requiring oral presentations, as well as allowing students time in class to demonstrate their mastery of learned concepts.

In order to be successful, Mission teachers and staff partner with parents and caregivers to create these opportunities. Your participation is integral to many of the activities that make Mission special. 

Parent and Caregiver Participation

Parent and caregiver participation is a vital part of the open school experiential learning program at Mission Avenue. Parents and caregivers enhance the program by providing additional resources, skills and talents. While not required, parents and caregivers are encouraged to volunteer either on campus or off as often as possible. This involvement promotes small group instruction in the classroom, increases the parents’ and caregivers’  involvement in their children’s learning, and provides support to Mission traditions and events, allowing them to flourish. 

Every grade at Mission depends heavily on parent and caregiver volunteers. During Back-to-School night in August, families are given an opportunity to sign-up for position(s) that best suit their talents and schedules. Teachers will provide and ask that parents and caregivers sign the Volunteer Agreement form. Visit San Juan School District’s website for the most up to date volunteer verification process.

Overnight Field Trips

Because learning doesn’t happen just in the classroom, field education experiences are an important part of the curriculum at Mission. Depending on annual input and participation rates of teachers, students and parents, Mission students may or may not participate in overnight field trips. Historically, these field trips have been life changing for our students who are pushed to grow, learn important character lessons and experience the complex beauty of the world outside their bubble. Field trips support our long-standing, Mission motto - "I hear & I forget, I see & I remember, I do & I understand." Some of the past field trip locations have included:

• Angel Island (Day Trip Only)

• Sacramento Zoo Overnight

• Sierra Outdoor School 

• Yosemite

• Malakoff Diggins

• Marin Headlands

• Sly Park

Note: Overnight field trips and/or their locations are subject to change. Teachers will keep families informed each school year.