William Penn staff is committed to providing each student with optimal learning opportunities so they can reach their full academic and social potential.  Our vision is to create and collaborate with all stakeholders in order to help students achieve high levels of academic success, become lifelong learners and responsible educated members of society.William Penn Elementary was the tenth school added to the Bakersfield City School District, opening in 1917.  The is named after William Penn, a founding figure of democracy in America.  The school was rebuilt in 1955 because of severe damage caused by the earthquake of 1952.  At Penn, staff believe our hope for the future, for our community and our country, begins in the classroom through the education of children.