Harte (Bret) Elementary School

Our children have attended Alta Vista since kindergarten—quite a few years now. We've experienced the lower (K-5) and middle (6-8) schools. We are surprised to see the school receive only stellar ratings and overwhelmingly glowing reviews. That does not quite reflect our experience. Alta Vista is above average, certainly, but the overall experience has been uneven. Their best days are long behind them.The ultimate weaknesses are teacher turnover—the inspiring, supportive ones don't last long (while stinkers inexplicably remain)—and the disproportionate emphasis on social issues rather than core academics. The brightest spot is camaraderie amongst the parent community. Families are very present, especially at the K-5 level, humble and accepting. I can't think of a parent who we'd not trust with our children. Moreover, the students themselves —the children— are and have turned out to be wonderful, responsible and kind humans.