Westbrook Regional Technology Center

I am altering my review from a couple of years ago to reflect efforts being made between then and now. The lack of parking is still a problem, but they have been actively trying to streamline the drop-off process to address the issue of kids being late to class due to being stuck in the traffic line. The biggest problem is related to district funding and not prioritizing access to transportation. Those who live within a mile are still not offered school buses in the winter (meaning children as young as five, and often their younger siblings and parents/grandparents walk a mile both ways- even on days deemed too dangerously cold for 15 minutes of outdoor recess). The district definitely needs to step up and deal with its transportation problems, but I recognize that Hall School probably has little say in that. Considering the need for adequate funding, and the great diversity of needs of the children at Hall Elementary, they do a great job of working with individual students. The teachers are very high quality, and the principal is very friendly and helpful.

We moved into the neighborhood because of its walkability and the reputation of Longfellow. We've loved walking the kids to school and the feeling in the halls of the school of acceptance and caring. The educational experience has been great, all the teachers we have had were committed and caring and taught to the kids' interests and skills. I did not feel they "teach to the test" or that they discouraged kids from thinking freely. The involvement of the parents, and an administration that works with parents to make sure their involvement helps the kids' experience, is a big plus. It's not the most diverse school in Portland, but compared to the schools in the suburbs it's like the United Nations. And it has a great deal of economic diversity. All in all, my only complaint is that the building clearly needs a renovation, given that it is 50+ years old and shows it. But I hear a renovation is in the works.

When I went to this school, I felt connected to my peers around me and teachers would always be there for you even if they were going through a rough time on their own. There were many fun activities such as movie nights and engaging field trips, allowing the child brain to develop new skills in different subjects (social and academically). I spent all K-5 here and it was amazing so I would definitely recommend this school to parents.

My 2 grandchildren have been at Breakwater since they each started school in Pre K. They are now 10 & 12 years old. Both of them get a wonderful education at Breakwater. Teachers are fantastic. The oldest loves the Arts and the youngest loves sports. Breakwater satisfies both children. What I love the most is that both of them are such KIND individuals for which I commend not only Breakwater but also their parents.