Principal: Olivia McCormick-Pippert 

Grades: K - 5

Enrollment: 510

Colors: Blue & White  

Mascot: Explorers

Shearer was originally called “Franklin Primary School and was built in 1875.  It accommodated students in the first, second and third grades.  Often it was called the South Primary School because of its location on Franklin and Elm streets.  One of the dominant personalities throughout this era was John Laughlin Shearer, the educator for whom Shearer Elementary School was named.  He taught in Napa for about three years and was elected county superintendent of schools in 1883.  Shearer held the office until 1887, and served continuously  on the county board of education for more than 50 years; 20 years as President of that body.  In 1921 he became Principal of Shearer until he retired in 1927.

In 1975 NVUSD trustees made plans for the replacement and reconstruction of Shearer Elementary School.  Shearer was found to have failed to meet earthquake safety standards.  Then in 2001 Shearer went through an extensive modernization project; the entire school was painted-both inside and outside, the school was wired to provide full connectivity to the internet, and accommodations were made to provide handicap accessibility to the school facilities.  Today Shearer has 30 classrooms, 2 Learning Centers, a Library, a Computer Lab and a large inviting office.  

A school wide focus on safety, health and well being has resulted in a campus that is virtually free of violence. During the first weeks of school, teachers and administration explain policies about student safety, the uniform dress code, playground rules, classroom behavior, bullying and harassment.  Best behavior and Second Step are also programs taught throughout the year and used for conflict resolution of discipline issues.

Shearer Charter Elementary School has made a commitment to educate the whole child.   Students meet the State’s requirements in all content areas and then are able to enrich their education by attending classes that research shows enables their brains and bodies to function better.  Each grade level weekly attends a class in Music, Art, Physical Education, or Technology, which we have titled “Specials”.  These classes are taught be highly qualified educators.  We believe and ensure that our students have a right to language arts, math, social studies, science, physical education, music, art, technology and English Language Development instruction.

Parents are educated about programs and their roles through participation in monthly Parent link meetings,  the Charter School Site Council (CSSC), English Learners Advisory Committee (ELAC), Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or volunteering in the library, classroom, garden or on field trips.  Opportunities are available year round.  PTA sponsors several community events throughout the year including the Readathon and the May Family Celebration.  Our reading program provides parents opportunities to attend workshops to develop literacy and support parents in efforts to help their children at home.