Mill School and Technology Academy Students First. Every Decision-Every Day.

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About Us » School History

School History

The Mill District was formed in 1898.  Portions of this territory were added and lost until the last portion was annexed from Rowland District on July 6, 1943.  At this time, Mill Elementary School became a member of the Whittier City School District.

The present principal is Sarah Bottomley serving since 2024.  Former principals of Mill School have been Elaina Garza, 2021-2024; Tony Garcia, 2019-2021, Reanna Mendoza, 2013-2019; L. Efstratios, 2000-2013; Cathy Antonelli, 1987-2000; Janet Garcia, 1986-1987; Kerigan Cory, 1980-1986; Claude Traylor, 1960-1980; and Charlotte Carbert, 1950-1960.

At Mill School and Technology Academy, staff, parents, and community work as a team to create an educationally rich environment that celebrates our diversity, promotes character development, and nurtures a passion for life-long learning.  Academic standards and high expectations form the foundation for quality instruction that continues to increase student achievement.  We relentlessly teach our students to become educated, responsible, productive members of society.

Mill School and Technology Academy is a beautiful school, nestled up against the hills.  The small, friendly, community atmosphere is immediately apparent: trees, flowers, a tile mural and painted murals. A TK-5 school, the 460 students are known as The Mustangs.  Every Tuesday, students and staff wear college shirts emphasizing MSTA's philosophy for every student, “I’m Going to College.”  The courtyard proudly waves the banner flags of universities from around the country.

In addition to the standards-based educational program, extensive use of 21st century technology to facilitate instruction can be found in all classrooms grades Tk-5: surround sound, HDTV instructional monitors, and document cameras. MSTA is recognized as an Apple Distinguished Program for it's implementation of a 1 to 1 iPad and Laptop environment.  Students use web-based programs, Reading Counts!, Kidblog and STMath to compliment the core instructional program.  Applications like iMovie, MyStory, Pages, Keynote, Educreations allow students to express their learning in a variety of ways.   

The Wonder of Reading Library is a reflection of the school’s commitment to literacy and the love of reading. Students participate in a school-wide reading incentive program. The Parent Teacher Corporation (PTC) provides funding for Art Masters, a program that provides three art lessons teaching the history and style of six different artists a year. When funding allows, each class has the opportunity to go on a field-trip to enrich their academic program.  Parents regularly volunteer their time to support the instructional program.  Students have the opportunity to participate in after school drama, chorus and yearbook.  Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is used as a framework to provide the tools to create and maintain a safe learning environment. Providing a well-balanced curriculum, Mill School and Technology Academy is a great place to learn.

We acknowledge and honor the important role that the family plays in a child’s education by sponsoring Moms and Muffins, and Dads and Donuts. Families are invited to attend both a Winter and a Spring school-wide performance. In addition, the annual Family Fiesta is a great way for us to celebrate together our wonderful Mill School and Technology Academy family.