Principal's Message

Dear Killybrooke Elementary School Families,
Killybrooke, home of the Colts, is gearing up for an incredible 2025–2026 school year! With high academic standards, a focus on student engagement, a welcoming culture, and a top-notch team dedicated to supporting our students, we are ready to continue the legacy of excellence Killybrooke is known for.
This year’s theme, “Lead the Race, Own the Road, Drive Your Dreams,” reflects our belief that students accelerate their learning when they are present, actively engaged, and empowered to take charge of their education. Inspired by our students’ drive and determination, we are encouraging every Colt to step confidently into the driver’s seat of their future.
Academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and strong character development are the keys to unlocking student success. By showing up each day ready to learn, collaborating with peers and staff, and staying focused on their goals, our students will truly “own the road” to their dreams. At Killybrooke, we believe that when students understand the power they hold to shape their future, there are no limits to what they can achieve. Our Colts are kind, capable, and courageous—and they are ready to lead the way.
Our schoolwide commitment to AVID College and Career Readiness plays a central role in supporting students on their journey. Through AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), we foster a culture of high expectations and equip students with the academic skills, strategies, and mindsets needed for long-term success. This includes:
-
Proficiency in reading, writing, and math for every child
-
Enriching learning opportunities and support for all learners
-
Positive social-emotional development and strong character building
-
Structured organization that is cohesive across grade levels
-
Purposeful use of assessments to drive instruction
-
Collaborative planning to ensure every student succeeds
We continue to promote the message that Killybrooke students are college and career-ready, prepared for Enrollment, Employment, or Enlistment. Each classroom adopts a university and proudly displays its flag to help students envision a variety of educational pathways, from four-year universities to community colleges and trade schools. Our 1:1 Chromebook program further prepares students with the technology skills they need to navigate their future.
Killybrooke is an award-winning school. In 2023, we were named a California PBIS Platinum Medal School, recognizing our commitment to a positive, supportive school climate. We are also proud to be a 2020 California Distinguished School and a high-performing Honor Roll School nine times since 2008. These honors reflect our unwavering belief that every student can and will achieve.
Just as important as academics is the development of each child’s character. Our dedicated team helps students build and practice essential life skills and values such as Proactivity, Goal-Driven Mindset, Kindness, Empathy, Courage, Honesty, Gratitude, Mindfulness, and Reflection. These traits help our students grow as leaders in learning and in life.
We also offer a variety of enrichment opportunities to deepen learning and engagement beyond the core curriculum including Student Government, PBIS Ambassadors, Student Newscast, Theater production and Best Buddies. Additional offerings are provided through our Expanded Learning Opportunities program and vary each school year. Many of these programs and events are made possible through the support of our amazing Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), which helps strengthen the home-school connection through family events and student experiences.
Student safety and learning are always our top priorities. We value strong communication between school and home. If you need to reach me, please call the school office at 714-424-7945 or email me directly to schedule a time to connect with me or our Administrative Assistant, Lina Tran.
This is going to be a powerful year of growth and learning at Killybrooke. When students, staff, and families partner together, we can lead the race, own the road, and help every Colt drive their dreams.
Thank you for your continued support—and I look forward to seeing you around campus!
Sincerely,
Laura Taylor
Principal
