Welcome families, to the 2026-2027 school year! Thank you for navigating over to this page so you can read me bragging about what makes Cadman Elementary School a phenomenal experience for our scholars. My name is Jeff Friedenberg, and this will be my second year leading and serving the Cadman school community.
Cadman is the small school where BIG things happen. Every day is special at Cadman which is why we have the best average daily attendance (96%) in all of Clairemont and the fifth best among elementary schools in the entire district (#5 out of 117). Why are our scholars motivated to come every day? First and foremost, it’s our dedicated, experienced, and passionate teaching staff who create memorable learning experiences each day. As the saying goes, “it takes a village”. Our support staff in the office, custodial, counseling, and special education provide wraparound services building a culture of kindness where every child is seen and feels like part of the family. Being a small school allows all of us to get to know each child on a deeper, personal level. It’s what I love the most about our school.
Scholars at Cadman benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities embedded in the school day. Our Cooking and Garden Education program is the highlight of my scholars’ week. Once a week, they either experience Next Gen Science Standards through working in our fully organic and sustainable garden or math and wellness learning how to cook using produce freshly harvested from the garden. We also offer ballet as an option for physical education, Visual and Performing Arts (TK-3rd), and instrumental music (4th-5th). Other partnerships include UCSD’s “Sprout Up” Science, Music 1-2-3 (ukulele and music appreciation), and SAY SD mental heath therapeutic services. Everything is completely free for our families.
There are endless opportunities for parent involvement at Cadman. We wouldn’t be who we are without it. Our active PTA hosts events throughout the year. The Cooking and Garden Education committee is always looking for folks with a green thumb to help care for our garden spaces and support cooking/gardening lessons. Families can also help with Safety Patrol in the morning or afternoon. We also have opportunities for families to support in the classroom, supervising recess, and chaperoning on field trips. There’s something for everyone, no matter what your schedule looks like.
When I’m not Principal’ing, you can find me coaching little league, working in my rose and vegetable gardens, BBQ’ing or smoking brisket in the backyard, at a Padres or SDFC game, volunteering as a docent at Torrey Pines Natural State Reserve, or trying out the newest foodie spot. I absolutely love teaching, learning, and serving as principal to this beautiful community. If you haven’t visited our campus yet, you’ll have to see it for yourself. Take the two minute tour by checking out the video on our homepage or contact us to see it all in person. Our office number is (858) 397-6500 or you can email me at [email protected].
All my best,
Jeff Friedenberg
Proud Principal
🦅Cadman Elementary School 🦅
Where Eagles SOAR