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AMERICA'S BEST SCHOOLS SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Jonas E. Salk School

Dr. Jonas E. Salk School

Magnolia School District

Anaheim, CA
Grades PreK-6th
Principal: Katie Brown
A teacher and students at Dr. Jonas E. Salk School

ENROLLMENT: 658

Asian
16%
Filipino
2%
Black/ African American
2%
Latino/ Hispanic
68%
Multi-racial
2%
White
8%
English Language Learners
33%
Students With Disabilities
22%
Students Meeting Low-income Criteria
80%

Dr. Jonas E. Salk School in the Magnolia School District is a welcoming, high-performing learning community where strong relationships, inclusive practices, and rigorous instruction work together to help every student thrive. Guided by the HAWKS motto—Have Respect, Act Responsibly, Work Together, Keep Safe, Soar to Success—the school has intentionally cultivated a culture of belonging, positivity, and shared responsibility where students consistently describe the campus as kind, friendly, and supportive. Staff emphasize that every child is known by name, valued for who they are, and encouraged to believe in their potential. This sense of connection is reinforced through Spirit Rallies, celebrations of growth, visible recognition systems, and traditions that build pride and collective ownership of success.

Students experience a school environment where differences are embraced and opportunities abound. Extracurricular programs, leadership opportunities, counseling supports, clubs, and inclusive campus activities allow students to explore interests, build confidence, and develop meaningful relationships. Students with disabilities and those enrolled in specialized programs are fully integrated into school life through differentiated instruction, peer supports, life skills development, and intentional inclusion practices that ensure every learner feels seen and supported.

Students celebrate at Dr. Jonas E. Salk School

Academically, Salk maintains high expectations for all learners through Explicit Direct Instruction, schoolwide use of Thinking Maps, collaborative planning, and intervention systems designed to provide students with exactly what they need to succeed. Teachers regularly analyze data, refine instruction, and adjust supports through collaborative dialogue and targeted “What I Need” intervention blocks. Instruction is engaging, responsive, and grounded in the belief that all students can grow when barriers are identified and addressed early. Educators consistently celebrate progress, encourage perseverance, and provide layered academic and social-emotional supports that strengthen readiness to learn.

Observers quickly notice engaged classrooms, positive interactions, and staff who model optimism, collaboration, and care. Together, these elements define Dr. Jonas E. Salk School as a place where high expectations, strong support, and school pride converge to ensure all students are empowered to soar to success.

Concourse Village Elementary School
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