Jefferson Elementary IB STEAM Magnet
Features at a glance
Foreign language instruction
An organic garden on campus
Ecology and environment learning programs
School-based sports and athletics clubs
A quality preschool school
Parent involvement programs, including a parent center
Additional support and programs for military families
Wellness programs and onsite wellness coordinator
Safe and inclusive anti-bullying leadership programs
Community and business partnerships
Before and after school care
Additional Visual and Performing Arts clubs, partnerships, and opportunities
Gifted and Talented Education
Integrated project-based learning
Performing Arts
We give our students the world!
The mission of Jefferson Elementary School is to develop internationally-minded students who, through a rigorous program of inquiry, become knowledgeable and caring citizens of the world. Located in the heart of the North Park community, Jefferson is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme World School and a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) magnet school.
Only schools that follow the strict guidelines of the IB goals and values can be certified as part of that program, a prestigious honor designed to make graduates of its programs ready to take their place in the global society.
As a STEAM magnet school, Jefferson is committed to providing rich, integrated math, literacy and science and lessons throughout the school day. All students have access to technology which is incorporated in the work they do during their units. Unlike other elementary schools in our neighborhood, Jefferson has a Design Studio where students work with their teachers to explore concepts in STEAM. The work we do is supported by two full time resource teachers who provide ongoing professional development for the classroom teacher in STEAM subjects and organize school and community events.
In keeping with IB parameters, Jefferson teachers and students work diligently on units of inquiry. IB attitudes and the Learner Profile are incorporated into daily work. All students learn English and Spanish as a start to making them multi-lingual citizens.
Jefferson's staff teach to the state standards and common core standards. We strive to improve student achievement in literacy and math through implementation of enhanced teaching practices and improved curriculum. In addition, we avoid combination classes whenever possible.
At Jefferson, we provide rigorous staff development for our teachers to improve teaching practices and work to improve student behavior by providing a positive and challenging learning environment. In addition, we continue to strengthen parent involvement through Family Fridays, PTA and Friends of Jefferson and community involvement by partnering with several businesses in the North Park area.