Tom Matsumoto Elementary School

Principal's Message

       Welcome to Tom Matsumoto Elementary School, in the Evergreen School District in San Jose. Our strong parent community, experienced teaching professionals, and hard-working students create a learning environment that is second to none.

       Tom Matsumoto has been honored as a California Distinguished school and a National Blue Ribbon school. Our STAR test scores have remained some of the highest in the state and the District. The school offers a challenging standards-based curriculum for children of all academic levels. Every child at Tom Matsumoto has the same opportunity to reach his or her full potential.

       Teachers focus on student achievement in the core academic areas: reading literacy, mathematics, science and social studies. Our academic program is enriched by student participation in a wide variety of assemblies, field trips, and hands-on activities. Student leadership and shared responsibility are taught through our ABC program, Student Council, and in a variety of ways in each of our classrooms.

       We integrate computer technology into the core curriculum. Teaching word processing skills at all grade levels is just the start. Our ability to reach out to the world through Internet access has opened the door to endless educational opportunities.

       We encourage parent participation. Volunteer opportunities come in a variety of time commitments and levels of effort. Whether you are volunteering in your child’s classroom, serving on the PTA committee, or helping your child with homework each night, you make our school stronger. We strive to establish a close working relationship with you.

       Tom Matsumoto is our school, our children, and our responsibility.

       Sincerely,

       Jim Sherman

       Principal

Vision Statement 

    The Tom Matsumoto School community dedicates itself to providing the best possible education for our students. We believe in providing a safe and nurturing environment in which every child experiences success and growth of self-esteem. 

     We hold high expectations for all students. Students engage in challenging differentiated activities that allow them to meet or exceed California grade-level standards. Teaching practices are continuously reviewed and new approaches researched and applied.

     We structure activities and classroom environments to foster a community based on tolerance and mutual respect, one in which every child feels valued. We work to build a strong sense of self-worth in every child so that each may become an empowered contributor to society.

     We embrace our motto "Creating the Future", and believe in the ability of every child to become a successful life-long learner.

Mission Statement 

Our vision manifests itself when our students:

1) Meet or exceed grade level standards in English Language Arts, English Language Development, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.

2) Experience quality curriculum through differentiated instruction based upon students' needs, research and best practices.

3) Accept responsibility for their words and actions.

4) Demonstrate respect for themselves and others in our culturally diverse community

5) Demonstrate the ability to resolve conflict peacefully.

6) Develop and maintain healthy relationships with peers and adults.