I have been involved with this school for about nine years and I have to say it has been a…read moreblessing! It really is a hidden gem. The principle Mrs. Stein is kind and caring, she always listens to everything you say! She works on solutions, not problems and is very pro active! And any well ran school has a team of above average humans that work hard on understanding all the different children's needs. Lori at the front office gives love and support not only to the staff, volunteers, but all the children that need the extra smile and support during the day! They support well rounded children with lots of fun activities throughout the year besides just academics! Although they are great at the academic side as well. My son was behind on his reading skills but by the time he went to middle school he was reading at grade level! I had been to so many schools and doctors! And the teachers are the best! I can not say enough about what a great school this truly is! I read some of the other reviews and I'm sad they have not received the same experience! And as far as some of the same kids in the same class year after year makes sense because they put the children that work well independently in the combo classes and the other children are usually in the single grade class. Hope this helps.

Horrible principal that has no regard for students with disabilities. The principal Deborah Stein…read moreis condescending, rude, and lacks tact. Overall a horrible principal/ person. I wish they would remove her and hire a different principal that has compassion and actually cares about ALL students. Glad my child is no longer enrolled in this school.

For some background information, I have been in Stratford my whole life, ever since preschool. I…read morehave gone to various campuses, like Stratford School Winchester and Stratford School Los Gatos. This school was pretty "mid." I would like to say many things, but I don't have many details. But I can say there were moments when the school felt "unprepared." The campus is pretty small. The fifth graders got one "wing" that was especially for fifth grade, and some people who used to go there say it felt "tight-knit" because the campus was not big. The Stratford School Los Gatos was from about preschool to fourth grade, so most people from the Los Gatos campus came to Stratford Middle School. Lots of people I knew had strongly negative complaints about this school, but I enjoyed it. Parents thought one of the teachers was not a good teacher, but they had lots of positive things to say about the other teachers (or something like that). Actually, there were a lot of problems with this school surrounding the teachers, including how good they are or if there were enough teachers. Stratford Preparatory Blackford is one campus that some parents decided to transfer their kids to starting sixth grade. The parents didn't really like the school. My experience was pretty good, it's just that the nearby Stratford School Los Gatos just felt BETTER.

This school was the bane of my absolute existance for 4 years. The academics are stressful, and the…read moretuition is extensive for a school that places no money towards paying teachers ( and one teacher will let you know that every single day) or upgrading the campus.

My son transferred to this school for 1st Grade. It was not the smoothest of transitions, but…read moreduring those critical first few months, it became apparent to us what the strengths of this school were: 1. Committed Staff -- Everybody, from the principal to the teachers and support (student services and after school), is committed to help out the students and their parents. We had a meeting within the first few months to discuss my son's progress and brainstormed how to help him out in certain situations that we had identified as "tricky". 2. Quality of the teachers -- I saw the reviews. Fortunately, my son was placed with teachers that understood him and motivated him to get excited and persevere with the lessons. Recently (after his first year), I discovered that they strongly encourage parents at the end of each schoolyear to fill out a form that details kids' strengths/weaknesses/learning styles, etc... all to help them identify which teacher is best for your kid(s). And this pandemic was a blessing in disguise for us -- in the few times we were able to listen to their Zoom classes, we saw and heard the joy and the positive energy his 2nd Grade teachers have. These came across strongly, and the kids are excited to participate and raise their hands to answer questions. My son can't even wait to wake up for in-person classes or log onto Zoom (on Zoom days). Now I understand why his homeroom teacher has to have a big tall Americano everyday :D 3. Sense of community -- all of these build that feeling in the students that school is a safe and happy place. We felt it in the first few minutes that we looked at the playground before my son's "interview". The students recognized that my son was not a student in the school, but they welcomed him and showed him the ropes around the playground. Nobody told them to play with my son, they did that all on their own. There were some spats with a kid on the playground during the 1st grade, but the situations were always handled with care by the staff, in a very fair manner. After a week or so it stopped, and the kid picking on my son actually became his friend. 4. Academics and extra-curricular -- I must admit that the extra-curricular program (esp the arts) was the first draw for us. Robust programs that build on all the way to high school. And the after-school programs are also well-chosen and well-run. The only nit I have, and it's very minor-- is the tuition fee. It's not cheap. But I recognize that in order to recruit and keep their valuable staff and provide their topnotch programs, they will need those resources. All in all, we are just so happy with the school, and we have been telling our friends about it. If you are thinking about placing your children here -- (1) Do it as early as Kindergarten, or (2) Do it early (for the upper grades); check their admissions calendar on the website. Re-enrollment levels for the current students is high so available slots for transferees are so few, think 2-3 slots.

Called this school a couple of times to sign up for an open house. Left messages and email. This…read moreschool only caters to certain people and will not respond if you're a minority. Not the way of the Lord if you tell me.

I realized that in my review, I forgot to mention how amazing all the staff are. They are…read moreincredibly kind, compassionate, knowledgeable, supportive and encouraging! My son absolutely loves them and we are so grateful for them! They are truly the best!

My twin boys have been attending Learning Springs Academy for 5 mornings a week for almost 2 years…read more We found LSA by chance (just driving by) after negative experience in Creative Minds Preschool (Rose Room for youngest kids). After reading the mixed yelp reviews we decided that it is always better to see the new preschool in person. During the tour of LSA we were surprised with the friendly attitude of the staff, large classrooms, spacious playground and extensive parent involvement. We also had the chance to speak with the teacher of the Yellow Room, which was most important for us. Our boys were about 2.5 years old at that time and in process of potty training. The staff of the LSA Yellow Room helped us significantly by using fixed potty regime for the whole class. The school also provided us with daily communication report about the activities of the day, mood of the child, activities that our boys enjoyed and weekly homework. If there was a behavioral issue, it was quickly resolved and the teachers always found time and spoke with us privately. The kids were bringing home tons of art projects and both of them were happy. Everything was basically the opposite to what we suffered through in Creative Minds. LSA accommodated our request and tried the twins in separate and in the same classroom just to know what works the best for our boys. The school also organizes monthly Parents Nights Out, parties for Valentine's, Easter, Halloween, Christmas and other occasions, professional picture days twice a year... My boys are now in the Red and the Blue Rooms, getting ready for kindergarten next year. The teachers are wonderful, patient and try to do what is in the best interest of the kids. We as parents could not wish for a better school for our boys.

Hello! As a kid who attended this school for 5 years and is…read morenow entering 7th grade in a different city, I can reassure you that I am well educated most students reviewing schools only tell you the cons of it, which isn't helpful. So, I am bound to give you a completely honest review. Since most 5 star reviews are from 50 year old dads who have never experienced what the school is like once you're actually a student and that it's all sunshine and rainbows everyday. To begin with, the school is pretty awesome. Art vista, science, and the library are like no other. Even though I love my new school district, nothing will ever beat the library they have at Hacienda. The field is HUGE and great for younger children to play in. Although I'd never choose to have hot lunch, I've always gotten breakfast. The food is amazing. Especially the mini pancakes. MOST teachers and staff and especially my counselor were super helpful throughout the years, and I would recommend this school to those around me. But of course--like any school, there is a downside to it. Now obviously, I'm not going to start rambling about how "annoying" teachers are, or how much work they give us, or the dress code, but this is rather a warning for those like me with learning differences. I have really bad anxiety, and a learning disability, so most days at school were rough for me. Of course, I had good days, but staff need to care less about scheduling assemblies ABOUT kindness and shift their attention to actually helping the kids who are being bullied and left unnoticed--because just acting like everything is fine and not doing anything at all only causes more problems. And who wants their kid to be in a school that feels like walking on eggshells every day? Nobody. At all. Most kids in my grade today most likely loved this school. And no, I am not saying that their opinion is wrong, but if you are looking for a school with a FRIENDLY community--that is something that is something that the school does not have. So please, think twice before trying to get your kids in this school. You may be saying "but it isn't the schools fault that the kids are mean!" Well, fun fact, if the teachers get irritated, they can also be the same. And no, I'm not talking about getting your phone taken away because for some stupid reason you thought that breaking school rules would be quote on quote "funny."(you know who you are.) Speaking from personal experience, some teachers cannot care less about learning differences, or your children's mental health--but rather care more about the money they're receiving after each day. Of course, not every teacher is mean, but it would be much more helpful for some teachers to care a little more about their students. In conclusion, summing up everything I have said in this review, I can assure you that this school is in a safe environment, and is most likely one of the best schools you'll get in this neighborhood. But, please pay attention to your children as they grow older at Hacienda. You never know what is happening behind closed doors.

I wish Yelp had a 6 star rating that you could give to one thing. This would be mine…read more The only non 5 star reviews are from somebody who TOURED the school and an anonymous coward. That pretty much tells you all you need to know. This is the best school I have ever heard of, let alone seen. My eldest goes here, and her sister starts Kinder soon. When you pick the kids up they want to go play on the playground with friends. They are crestfallen if you pick them up more than 5 minutes before closing at the YMCA. This is a special community and it is infectious. If you don't win the lottery don't despair. Both my kids were waitlisted to start and got in by Sep so it does happen. As for the big class sizes, it's more friends for your child.

When my husband and I were looking for the right school for our family, we did our research and…read moresettled on Saint Frances Cabrini. We've been so happy with our decision. Our son is thriving and loves his school community, the teachers and the administration. We've found the community we were looking for at SFC.

Our son has been at Saint Frances Cabrini for four years, and we've loved it. The classes are small…read more(about 20 kids in each class with two classes per grade) so the teachers really get to know each student and give them the attention they need. The campus is gated and feels super safe, which is such a relief as a parent of an elementary school student. The teachers have all been wonderful, caring, patient, and really dedicated. Our son has grown so much here, both academically and socially, and he's made amazing friends. The parent community has really stepped up too! Everyone's so involved and supportive. The recent Cabrini Carnival was a huge success and such a fun event--it reminded us that this school isn't just great for the kids, but for the whole family. We feel lucky to be part of such a positive, close community.

The recent issues in the middle school here are very sad. Inexperienced and power hungry…read moreadministrators are ruining an otherwise vibrant and exciting learning environment. We hope this can be corrected before the school goes further downhill.

I just have to write a recommendation for Almaden Country Day Schoo!. We have been there for 2…read moreyears and have had a GREAT experience. They came highly recommended and I was obviously looking for a school with academics as a priority. Math and Language Arts are THE integral part of the school day. I feel confident my child will be more than ready for the most prestigious high schools. One hundred percent of this year's graduating 8th graders applying to private high schools were accepted I just heard. Wow. The hands on Science program and "Maker's Space"(which teaches children coding, robotics, 3D printing, electronics, etc.) are both phenomenal and I cannot say enough about their Art, Music, P.E., Theater, Foreign Language and Library programs. The difference however, with ACDS is its focus on each child. The moment I enrolled I knew I was entering my child into knowledgeable hands under caring and dedicated teachers that would encourage his gifts as well as continuing with academic rigor. Whether it be their after school sports or enrichment programs as well as the over 40 electives in middle school, he would find "his" path. Since that day, my child has broadened both in his academic knowledge and most importantly, his self confidence. He is an 4th grader and loves his school! The tenured teachers, under an exceptional Head of School, encourage self exploration and provide the opportunity for each child individually to find their path while still adhering to curriculum. No school is perfect and I am totally aware...but they ask. In a yearly survey we are asked, How are things? How can we do better? Does your child feel challenged and accepted? Do you feel a part of your child's education and development? Do you and your child feel a part of the community? (Along with much more!) Its other accolade is their TLC program which is one of the only specialized programs of its kind in the Bay Area. It provides 4:1 ratio for children who need small group education (within perimeters) in Math, Language Arts and Social Studies while integrating for other studies into the larger classroom experience in preparation for high school. It is a supportive environment with specially trained teachers that allows children to feel confident in their learning. My child has benefitted tremendously from this program while still feeling accepted within the larger program. ACDS has intentionally planned for seamless transitions within children's daily routines. I encourage anyone interested to go to their website or an open house and see for yourself. I encourage you to talk to other parents! Several! Or even the kids (whom by the way give the open house tours.). Your school choice is a big decision I know. I was there. The more information the better so you can make the decision what is right for your child and your family. ACDS was the right choice for mine.

We are very happy with our experience at Stratford! Our son has been attending Stratford at the…read moreAlmaden campus since kindergarten. All his teachers, Ms Sangeetha & Ms Allie (K), Ms Shilpa (1st grade), have been excellent at encouraging our son to do well and have also provided critical feedback when needed. Our son adores his teachers and has made friends that hopefully stay for lifelong. We also like the balance Stratford offers in terms of academics and extra-curriculars. One minor feedback for the school would be to improve the summer program as our experience has been alright thus far. More creative program options would be nice. Overall, very happy with Stratford Almaden.

We are very happy with our experience at Stratford. Our daughter has been with Almaden Startford…read morefrom KG. She had a great teacher Ms Negar for KG, who transformed our shy kid to blossom into a social butterfly. This year, we have Ms Shilpa for her 1G and can't be more happy for her attention and support. The key testament to the teachers is when the kid says her teachers are the next best to her parents. The campus provides a well rounded experience exposing the kids to various cultural and social activities. Ms Pardeshi and Ms Nedar have been very instrumental in providing necessary leadership and support. We strongly believe the early years make a strong foundation and glad to have such wonderful teachers in her life - Ms Shilpa and Ms Negar.

Have heard stories that teachers and principal there not supportive to kids who need a bit more…read moreattention. How sad.

I went to school here from '06 until I graduated from '09. Honestly, if I had the guts to say that…read morewe should move I should've made that decision. I've been picked on a whole lot by the students and don't seem to know anything about including those that were different from the "normal kids". Even the teachers were bystanders. Like any school that has high ratings, but I'd have to say that anyone that's giving it such a high rating is most likely overhyping how good the school really is.

We are thrilled with our experience at Challenger School (Harwood Campus) this year! Our son is in…read morethe 4-year preschool program, and the growth we have seen in him is remarkable. A huge part of this success is due to his incredible teachers, Ms. Lourenda and Ms. Samita. They are a great team--warm, attentive, and dedicated to the students. You can tell they truly care about each child's individual progress. They have created such a disciplined yet joyful environment where our son feels confident and excited to learn every day. Academically, the curriculum is fantastic. Our son is currently learning vowel blending, which is a good achievement for his age! It is wonderful to watch him building such strong reading skills so early on. Thank you, Ms. Lourenda, Ms. Samita, and the entire Challenger Harwood team for giving our son such a strong foundation. We couldn't be happier with our decision to send him here!

This is an excellent school. The pre-kindergarten teachers Miss Samita and Miss Lourenda take great…read morecare of the children, nurture their curiosity to learn and explore, and guide their social emotional learning. My son has achieved great progress in many aspects since he got enrolled. Miss Dan and Miss Kari always warmly welcome the children in the morning when they arrive in the school. Miss Sukaina at the office is always willing to help us with any queries and the principal Mrs Panesar has been sharing good feedback to the parents.