4123 Bell Ave
Sarasota, FL 34231

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.

Wonderful diverse school with multiple programs. The IB Diploma Program is particularly strong, with high-achieving students who take very challenging course loads. Expectations are high and kids are well prepared for college, many of whom go onto top-tier universities. Facilities are well maintained and administrators are approachable and want the best for the RHS community. Really impressed with many of the teachers and a high percentage have advanced degrees.

This is a really darling school physically. It depicts a stately Florida heritage with its older architecture and natural oak landscaping. I suppose if they were to repurpose this, then, it would be to sell the property, demolish the school building and cut these oaks down, therefore desecrating the concept of heritage and greening our schools.Despite enrollment, it begs the question: what is the real meaning of repurposing? Is it a Selby Garden scenario of self gain and this on behalf of community loss? I would think enrollment is only half the cost when it comes to repurposing. The other is the community, something SCSB should consider in depth The concept of repurposing should be understood in terms of both education and the environment, as well as in terms of community input.