Principal's Message

A Message from the Principal… Mrs. Charise Santana

I hope everyone had a wonderful and restful summer. My husband and I had the chance to travel to Las Vegas and Maui, and we created some amazing memories together! Now, I’m recharged and ready to kick off another fantastic school year at Thomas Paine Elementary School. Let’s make it a year full of learning, growth, and great memories together. Welcome back!

Our school focus will continue to align with GGUSD's district goals to ensure every student thrives:

• Goal 1: Academic Skills – Equipping students with strong foundational in Academic Content, Scholarly Habits and Academic English.
• Goal 2: Personal Skills – Helping students build Motivation, Wellbeing and Climate & Culture
• Goal 3: Lifelong Success – Preparing students to succeed in College, Career, and Readiness.

This year, we’re also excited to welcome several new staff members to our school community. We’re thrilled to have them join the Thomas Paine family and know they will bring great energy and talent to our team.

• Angela Sosa, Head Custodian
• Elizabeth Gomez, 4th Grade Teacher
• Ariel Vu & Krystal Tello, Speech & Language 
• Cameron Gandara, Instrumental Teacher
• Kilene Short, Social Worker (ASPIRE Team)
• Alyssa Phan, Vietnamese Community Liaison (1-4:00)

Let’s make it a year full of learning, growth, and unforgettable moments. Welcome back!

Sincerely,

 Mrs. Santana

Our School

Paine Elementary was named 2018 California Distinguished School for being a model school with successful practices that other school leaders hope to replicate. Here at Paine, we are proud to provide a positive and supportive culture for our approximately 500 scholars. 

Paine's extracurricular programs provides many exciting opportunities for students, including: 

• Our robust choral and instrumental program brings out the inner musician in each student. Students learn to read music as they execute a plethora of heartfelt performances throughout the year.
  
• Boys & Girls Club boosts student achievement and involvement each day after school until 6 P.M. Enrolled scholars build social skills as they form unforgettable friendships through exciting activities. Staff members also ensure that students fulfill the Power Hour, known as a time dedicated to completing homework. 
• Intervention in the fall and spring is a two-week long course that reviews in-class material in unique ways. Educators review materials through games, activities, exercises, and traditional teaching. Scholars with the need to review material are accommodated, placing them on a path of academic success.

Teachers use cutting-edge instructional strategies and integrate 21st century technology into daily instruction. Our school also has a 1:1 computer to student ratio and students engage with innovative technology tools as part of the common curriculum.

Our highly involved PTO coordinates yearly events and quality assemblies. Paine offers many opportunities for parents to engage in their child’s education through online resources to help with homework support as well as family technology nights, PTO, and parent education classes. Parents may come and get involved by visiting our office or joining us at our fun events.

We are excited to bring in a new school year of academic accomplishments and emotional well-being. For questions or comments, feel free to visit us at our office.