About Us
Mission
At Matthew Turner Elementary School, our mission is to cultivate a positive, safe, and nurturing learning environment where every student is inspired and supported to reach their highest potential. We aim to empower our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to shape their futures, fostering respect, tolerance, and active community engagement. Through our dedication to excellence in education, we strive to develop well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
Turner History
Matthew Turner was considered the greatest individual American shipbuilder of his time and the most prolific shipbuilder in North America during the 19th century, having launched 159 vessels at his South San Francisco shipyard and 169 at his Benicia yard. He was awarded medals by Queen Victoria of England and King Haakon VII of Norway for bravery in rescuing seamen during storms at great danger to himself and his ship.
A true humanitarian, Turner commissioned four new ships from his own retirement fund to help rebuild San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake and fire. Matthew Turner’s ships were known to be extremely seaworthy and fast.
The dolphin was chosen to be Turner Elementary School’s mascot because they possess the qualities of speed, intelligence, and helpfulness valued by Matthew Turner himself.