Glen Brae
Aptos, CA 95003

i was sceptical at first, but overall the school has had a positive effect on my daughters self esteem and grades.

I was unsure about what we would get from Aptos Jr. as you hear negative stories around town, but when I stepped back I realized that those stories were from people whose children did not actually attend the school. We gave it a go and are so happy that we did. My daughter has had a truly amazing experience here. Her teachers are warm and welcoming, the principal is amazing and goes above and beyond for her students. She has made this school into a place students want to be. My daughter is being challenged academically, especially in mathematics. She participated in the wheel of electives this year and has tried many new subjects that she otherwise would not have. The after school activities especially athletics have been really engaging and again opened her up to new experiences. There is always something to learn and do, during and after school. I am concerned about the District cuts but it does seem that school already moves mountains with the little district support it currently gets.

Valencia is one of those storybook schools where the moment you walk onto campus, you know it is everything a childhood elementary school should be. Nestled on a creek in Aptos, where the redwoods meet the sea, the drive to school often feels mystical with the fog resting just below the tree line and light filtering through the leaves, setting the tone for the warmth waiting on campus.Between my three children, we have experienced 15 different teachers from TK through 6th grade, and every one of them has cared not only about my children’s education, but also about their social and emotional well-being. The staff is deeply invested in their students, and their kindness and dedication have created an amazing community where parents and teachers share genuine respect for each other and there’s a deep appreciation for the love and care the teachers bring into the classrooms each day.Whenever my children have needed support, they have been met quickly with the resources they need to thrive. Whenever I have had questions or concerns, I have always been met with communication, answers, and help. If I had to choose an elementary school for my children all over again, I would choose Valencia every single time.