Home of Meadows Arts and Technology Elementary School

In the second oldest part of Thousand Oaks, an architecturally innovative elementary school opened its doors in 1963. Neighborhood "development" during this time period consisted of custom homes and builder homes on large lots that served equestrian and other rural interests of the residents. Meadows Elementary became the new school for all of the families moving to this growing city.

Since then, Meadows Elementary has demonstrated four decades in teaching excellence, along with a passion for the arts. In fact, Meadows use of innovative teaching practices once considered progressive or unconventional, are now widely accepted as effective strategies.

Meadows Elementary has been recognized numerous times for its delivery of sound educational programs that result in solid achievement outcomes. Meadows was honored with the National Blue Ribbon Award in 1997, becoming the first school within the entire school district, elementary through high school, to receive this honor. Further, Meadows holds the rare distinction as a three-time recipient of the California Distinguished School Award; the most recent of these was bestowed in April, 2008.

In a devastating decision, the school board of the Conejo Valley Unified School District voted 3-2 in March, 2008, to close two of its three National Blue Ribbon Schools, Meadows being one of them. The Conejo community was shocked, but no one, not even the charter petitioners, were prepared for the mobilization of the Meadows community in its quest to perpetuate the Meadows tradition of history and excellence.

Parents from public and private schools, grandparents, educators, alumni, blue collar and white collar residents have united in search of a vehicle that will keep alive both the spirit and the unique educational program that took over forty years to cultivate. Specifically, a passion for creativity and artistic expression, an off-the-charts rate of volunteerism that is highest in the district, and an openness to innovation culminate in a true neighborhood school that has become the reflection of the outstanding community that Meadows serves.

Thus, the Charter School, Meadows Arts and Technology Elementary School (M.A.T.E.S.) was conceived.

Meadows School is located at 2000 La Granada Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. Visit our map page or select the link below for more information on this schools location or visit the website at http://www.meadowscharter.org for curriculum.