“Friendly. Inclusive. Academic. Being part of this school has been an amazing experience. When you have such a great community and so many parents involved you know you are going to a great school that your student will excel in! The teachers are all amazing and really take the time to learn about the students and teach them according to their learning style.” - Parent
In 1908, a large, new Oceanside Primary School was built on 43rd Avenue, between Irving and Judah. Two stories and a basement in height, and covered with wooden shingles, it was a substantial addition to the neighborhood.
History
The first school in Oceanside was founded in 1903 and met beneath a grocery store on 48th Avenue. In 1908, a large, new Oceanside Primary School was built on 43rd Avenue, between Irving and Judah. Two stories and a basement in height, and covered with wooden shingles, it was a substantial addition to the neighborhood. This school building was demolished and rebuilt in 1913; the name was subsequently changed to Francis Scott Key School. In the late 1910s or early 1920s, a large, wooden half-timbered Francis Scott Key School Annex, its first story clad in 12-inch wide redwood planks, was built at 1351 – 42nd Avenue. This building still exists. In 1938, Francis Scott Key School relocated to the current site on 43rd Avenue between Kirkham and Lawton in the Sunset District of San Francisco a few blocks from Ocean Beach. The school was recently renovated to its current beautiful building and yard that’s open
(Architectural and Historic Resources of the Oceanside http://www.outsidelands.org/oceanside.php)
In this art deco styled building, we have 26 teaching classrooms, a computer lab, a school library and a cafeteria /auditorium serving over 560 students. The school provides excellent general education as well as a strong program in the area of special education. Being inclusive is a proud practice of our school. As a caring community, we believe in educating the “whole” child by building healthy minds and bodies. School is not just about learning to read and write. We are all committed to supporting each child’s academic, social, emotional, physical, and creative growth.
In addition to the strong art, science and technology programs, Francis Scott Key Elementary School received multiple awards for academic excellence. This year, under the leadership of the administration, F.S. Key Elementary School is developing a cohesive STEAM program while continuously developing students’ academic skills through Reading & Writing Workshops. In collaboration with FSK parents, we work together to ensure a safe and positive place where children learn and grow each day. It is our vision to provide students the learning experience that is nurturing, compassionate, supportive and challenging; to equip them with appropriate 21st century skills, growth mindset and confidence by embracing creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking.
The school was named for Francis Scott Key who is best known for writing the lyrics to the national anthem of the United States of America: "The Star Spangled Banner".
