American Martyrs School is one of the jewels in the crown of American Martyrs Parish. It sparkles with the laughter of children, the joy of learning, and the light of loving parents and teachers. When our school began its first fall term on September 15, 1947, eight teaching Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondolet were there to greet 235 new students. The little brick schoolhouse had been built on sandy "wilderness;" it accommodated just six grades. Over the last half-century, American Martyrs School has mushroomed into an expansive academic complex-complete with a state-of-the-art science lab, library, extended care center, media lab, and dedicated rooms of instruction for music, art, and Spanish. Adjoining the elementary school campus are the parish Gymnasium and the AMS pre-school. More than 700 children attend Pre-K through eighth grade at American Martyrs School today. A dedicated staff of 75 lay professionals works in partnership with parents to provide our school children with a faith-based education that focuses on academic excellence and the development of Catholic values. Though we are a parochial school, our young students have strong links to Manhattan Beach and the surrounding communities. Our children are actively engaged in public service from the time they enter kindergarten. They graduate as young Disciples of Christ — a shining reflection of His loving light.