The Andrews community—teachers, principal, staff, parent committees, parents, students, and community members—shares a common vision: To inspire and facilitate the academic success of all students.

Andrews School is an oasis situated in the northernmost portion of the Whittier City School District. As both the hub and the jewel of this neighborhood, Andrews is the trusted site where the community sends its children to be educated and nurtured. The school motto: "I Am Somebody Special," reflects the school's profound commitment to each and every child as an individual, while recognizing his or her special gifts, unique talents, and ability to succeed. Known as a place of high quality teaching and engaged student learning, Andrews takes pride in its reputation of excellence.

The diversity of our student population reflects the community in which we teach. Our enrollment averages 440 students. Eighty-four percent of students are Hispanic, eleven percent are White, three percent are Asian, one percent is Black, one percent is Pacific Islander, and one percent is Filipino. Twenty percent of our students are English Language Learners. We are one of 9 elementary schools in the Whittier City School District, but we are proud to be the only elementary school to include a sixth grade.

The staff at Andrews School provides a balanced, comprehensive, and standards-aligned curriculum by following District Essential Agreements and the Frameworks for California Public Schools in all curricular areas. As confirmed by Andrews’s API (799 in 2008), continuous growth in student achievement has been promoted by the alignment of effective teaching practices with the state standards curriculum and its assessment tools. The School’s language arts program, Houghton Mifflin, allows for flexible grouping of students so that all students’ needs are better met. The School’s math program,Harcourt Brace, also provides many materials for extra support, re-teaching and challenging students.

At Andrews School, we are fortunate to have strong community support through the PTA and active parent involvement in the classroom. PTA fund-raisers provide additional funds for school field trips and activities. A concerted effort has successfully brought the PTA, ELAC and SSC to work together in organizing and leading events. Our PTA also sponsors the Room Parent Volunteer Program in which every classroom has a volunteer parent assigned to help the teacher. Our student council is also actively engaged in making all student activities educational and memorable.

High expectations are institutionalized at Andrews. Students desire and pursue academic, artistic, athletic, and social success, and teachers, other students, parents, and the community supports them in their endeavors. High standards and strong staff and community support shape Andrews’ culture.