Welcome to the Jefferson community.
Friends of Jefferson's (FOJ) mission is to enrich the education of every Jefferson student while building a strong, connected school community. As the parent-teacher organization (PTO) of Jefferson Elementary School in North Park, San Diego, and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, FOJ brings that mission to life by funding programs like Art, Garden, Dance, and after-school clubs; organizing school-wide events and activities; supporting our teachers and staff; and bringing families together through meaningful experiences that strengthen our school community. Together, we're creating a welcoming place where every Panther can learn, grow, and thrive.
We're so glad you're here.
Jefferson is more than a school — it's a community. We believe that every family brings something unique and valuable to our community. Whether it's attending meetings, helping out at an event, contributing to the classroom, or simply cheering from the sidelines, Your presence matters.
The collaboration of the entire community is essential. It truly takes a village.
Welcome to ours.
Featured Jefferson Events
Jefferson is an IB STEAM Magnet School.
Jefferson is one of only five International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program elementary schools in the San Diego Unified School District, and the only one that is also a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) specialist school. Through the inquiry-based IB and hands-on STEAM activities, we are developing internationally minded children who think critically and care about the world around them.
Learning extends beyond the classroom.
Every Jefferson Panther deserves opportunities to learn, create, and grow. In addition to district-supported Music and Spanish instruction, Friends of Jefferson funds Art, Dance, Garden education, and free after-school clubs that spark creativity, nurture curiosity, build confidence, and help students discover new interests and talents.
Are you new to Jefferson?
Welcome to the Panther family! Our Quick Start Guide has everything you need to get settled in — key dates for your calendar, how to stay connected with ClassDojo and the FOJ newsletter, and easy ways to get involved (whenever you're ready). Take a look and don't hesitate to reach out with questions.