331 Elder Ave
Millbrae, CA 94030

Spring Valley was a great school that I used to go to I hope everyone is doing good.

When I went to Taylor, the school was exceptional. Over the last few years, I've seen a change -- I worry about the safety of my kids; some teachers seem to not care, while others do a great job, so my scores on learning are in the middle.

My initial impression of Mills students was how courtesy seem to be part of the culture and they practice it without thinking... it’s second nature to them. This was exhibited at school fall open houses when I took my 8th grader to visit various area high schools to choose for next year. Student only knows me as “a” parent, and nothing special. But when I approached a door and if the student got there just before me, the student held the door open for me. And it was not a one time, one student. Every student that was in that situation held the door open if I was near enough to them. It was a simple gesture of courtesy, but it spoke volumes about the general character of the school—kids there are respectful as a whole and such gestures are commonplace. When I visited other high schools in a similar manner, most students (even when they were actually runnning tours) were so self-absorbed with chatting amongst themselves or completely unaware of their surroundings and repeatedly allowed the door slam closed even if someone was right behind them, etc.Then I met one staff walking around the center court. She noticed me, broke into a smile, and greeted me. “Hello, I’m Pam Duszynski. Are you enjoying the open house? Is there anything I can help you with?” It was totally unexpected to have a principal so casually approach and talk to a parent, I was impressed. She was friendly, and came across as someone genuinely interested in the school community. I also attended the freshmen orientation night. she, along with the assistant principal, counselors, and the student body officers were there to present. Student President was charismatic, poised, mature, and speech content was informative and appropriate. At some other schools, some principals didn’t even show up (and no mention of, “Principal was unable to attend tonight and...” excuse so I believe that’s a norm there)My son attends Mills now (requested intradistrict transfer), and we were not disappointed. Principal is actively involved, I see her at every concert and school events, students have been inclusive. On one serious misbehavior incident reported to staff by a student, the offending student was immediately suspended upon verification of the facts, removed by police, and subsequently expelled after due process. They act quickly if there is cause. There is trust between students and staff that students don’t hesitate to go to them for help. I find this is a very positive environment to be in.