217 N 5th St
Sarasota, FL 34238

My experience with Alta Vista has been incredibly frustrating, and my student’s experience has honestly been a nightmare — mostly because of constant issues with other students. While there are a few teachers who seem to genuinely care and do a good job, others — especially in 5th grade science and math — often come across as angry at everyone: students, parents, you name it. It doesn’t exactly create a positive learning environment.Discipline feels like a suggestion, not a system. The kids know there aren’t real consequences, and it shows. It’s nearly impossible to focus on learning or doing well academically when the classroom feels chaotic and the same behavioral issues keep happening over and over with no real change.Administration seems focused on one thing: test scores. But it’s hard to produce strong scores when the day-to-day classroom environment is so disruptive. From what I’ve seen and heard, a lot of the dysfunction starts at the top. Instead of addressing the constant distractions, the focus seems to stay on the numbers.If you’re looking for structure, accountability, and a calm place for your child to learn, I’d strongly suggest looking closely before enrolling.

i loved this place so much omg i miss it

My son attended Brookside in 6th and 7th grade. It was a terrible experience and I wish I would have pulled him out sooner. The teachers are stressed and yell at the kids. The staff are not proactive. There are fights regularly. My son was attacked unprovoked twice, which is why we ultimately left. Kids walk around with phones all day. The early care program sells candy and soda - great way for kids to start the day. They do not accommodate 504s and iEPs appropriately or adequately. There are a few specific teachers that are very good and caring. But for the most part, this school represents my biggest mistake.