About Us

Nelson Elementary School is named after former Tustin Unified Superintendent, W. R. Nelson. Built in 1965, at the time it was one of 11 elementary schools. Today it is one of 18 elementary schools.

W. R. Nelson provides rigorous and engaging learning experiences for more than 500, preschool through fifth grade, 21st century learners. We are a Title I Community school committed to implementing best teaching practices to meet the needs of our diverse students. There is an intangible, yet palpable sense of ownership and connectedness to the welfare of the greater community. Our dedicated teaching staff and parents work in relentless pursuit of our mission: We at W.R. Nelson will not rest until all our students’ needs are met through high expectations, communication, and collaboration. At Nelson, we focus on Well-Core: All students will grow to reach their full potential as a whole child through communication, community, and connection.

Nelson teachers and students are creating, collaborating, communicating, and thinking critically in a technology-rich environment. Our vision statement reflects our commitment to ensuring all students become the best they can be socially, emotionally, and intellectually by learning in a safe and inclusive environment. On-site instructional coaching supports this purposeful integration.

Parents, through the PTA, generate thousands of dollars in support of instructional programs. These include subsidizing field trips, providing art and music, and extracurricular activities like our annual Trunk-or-Treat, Movie Night, Sweetheart Dance, and parent socials. Along with our monthly PTA and ELAC meetings, parents engage as active volunteers and advocates in their children’s lives. Additionally, Pure Game offers soccer programs three times a week, enhancing our students' physical and emotional well-being.