At Frank West, our mission is to create strong independent readers, writers, and thinkers who will go on to be college and career-ready. We strive to build the joy of literacy throughout our grade levels and give all students the tools to explore the world through reading.  In addition to strong independent readers, our focus is also on building relationships with our students allowing for a safe, supportive and predictable learning environment. At the end of the day, we want to be the who and provide the what for the reasons each child desires to attend school each day.Frank West Elementary opened in 1958.  The school is named after Frank E. West, a longtime Bakersfield resident who served the school district in many capacities, including Director of Maintenance and Operations and as a Board Member.  Frank West staff works to ensure a safe and positive learning environment in which all students are valued and cared for, receive an equitable education, and are prepared to be college and career ready.