1416 Alcatraz Ave
Berkeley, CA 94702

Like the others, for my experience when Mr. Stack was the principle the school was truly wonderful! Unfortunately, after he left and new leadership took over, the school declined very quickly. This year has gotten so bad, I decided to transfer my student out as quickly as possible. Many classrooms do not have permanent teachers, and are frequently taught by substitutes. They are given packets with little to no instruction or guidance. Because of this, the students are not consistently learning what is required for their grade level and WILL NOT be properly prepared for the next one. Several experienced teachers have left the school, been dismissed, or resigned mid-year due to conflicts with leadership, aka the principal(s). This has clearly affected the stability of the learning environment. Communication with parents is also very poor. Important updates about classrooms or student matters are often shared at the last minute, leaving families with little time to respond or plan. The current principal, who began the year as the assistant principal after the previous principal left, is not qualified to be leading, she is rude to the students and dismissive of issues when they arise. Problems are often ignored rather than resolved. I'm glad we left this school because if they continue with this principal, I assure you, your child(ren) will be held back both academically and socially.