About Us

 

Welcome to San Diego Academy of Excellence, the home of the Cheetahs! SDAE was the first school in our organization to open its doors in 2000, and we have been empowering TK through 8th grade students ever since.

 

We’re thrilled to share that Academy of Excellence opened the doors to its second brand new, two-story school building for the 2026–2027 school year! This vibrant new space is designed to spark collaboration, inspire creative thinking, and provide a welcoming environment for every learner. And we’re just getting started—future phases of construction are already in motion, with plans for new green spaces, play zones, and athletic facilities. The future is bright at Excellence, and we’re proud to be building it together!

Our Dual Language Immersion program continues to thrive and pave the way for our students to achieve the California State Seal of Biliteracy, a distinguished achievement recognized by college admissions and employers. 

In our pursuit of excellence, we continue to refine the different layers of universal and targeted academic and social-emotional support, while also building strong connections with students and families built from a foundation of love.

 

Our unique approach to learning includes:

- Dual language immersion for TK-5th grade through which 50 percent of the day is taught completely in Spanish and the other half taught in English to promote proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in both languages
- Spanish instruction twice per week for 6th-8th grade
- Small class sizes to ensure that every student receives individualized support
- Embedded mental health supports and daily dynamic mindfulness practice
- Customized partnerships through our Community School model that support the whole child
- Free Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO), including competitive athletic programs, after-school clubs, before and after school programs, and academic/enrichment programs during school breaks
- Free field trips throughout the year

 

We invite you to join us in our mission as we seek excellence in academics, arts, and athletics from the foundation of love!