Willard Middle School

The drama program is phenomenal. The teachers range from very good to excellent. I see so many kids flourishing,
—Submitted by a parent

I have an 8th grader who is finishing-up his third and final year at Willard (then on to Berkeley High) and a 6th grader in his first year at Willard. Willard has been a great school for both of them. The principal is excellent (and school excellence starts with the principal), most of the teachers are dedicated, and there are many academically oriented kids. I highly recommend Willard.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter transferred to Willard from a private school and loves it. The 6th grade program is very cohesive and strong, with fantastic teachers. There seems to be something new and exciting going on every week. The cooking and gardening program are a wonderful bonus, and she has made many good friends.
—Submitted by a parent

Our son is finishing three years at Willard Middle School in June and on his way to Berkeley High. We have had an incredible middle school experience at Willard. From the Principal, teachers, students, sports program and the parent community. They have prepared our child academically and emotionally for the next level of education.
—Submitted by a parent

I have a seventh grader at Willard and she is totally happy there. The principal is fabulous, great staff in general. Very dedicated parent group. The sleeper school of Berkeley!
—Submitted by a parent

New to this school, I am so far impressed by the services, teachers and principal. I hope it is a productive year both socially and academically for my son.
—Submitted by a parent

We have had a great first year at Willard. The teachers are concerned about all the kids, they take time to address issues, and work very hard to teach in an engaging way. My child has learned a lot, made good friends, and looks forward to going to school. The principal cares about the kids, knows all their names, and wants them all to succeed and puts in a great deal of effort and time to make that possible. The principal also works closely with the teachers to lead but also learn from the staff. There are extra-curricular activities and good electives during the day, including cooking and gardening. Parents are great although even more help would be good. Willard has a lot to offer.
—Submitted by a parent

willard in my opinion is not a safe school. there is not enough security and staff available so the principle is never in his office. tutoring and detention are held in the same class room. rules should then be applied to all children and teachers need to follow up with parents and get more involved in the school and not just the work.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers really get involved in what's going on. Even though willard is pretty short on money, they really have a great way of keeping things fine. Willard is a wonderful school,
—Submitted by Martha, a parent

My twins started 6th grade last year at Willard At the time I was apprehensive, Longfellow was nearer ; King I suspected a better school. I'm not sure what all these new test scores really mean as far as geting a good education. It's not something you're spoonfed afterall; but as I tell my kids 'It is your right but you have to claim it and make it your own.' Socially the school seems to be the perfect size and my two have always enjoyed and respected diversity. This spring I found myself engrossed in an amazing discussion with my son concerning Hannibal and Ancient History. They had discovered a true love for learning.
—Submitted by a parent

My son will be an 8th grader at Willard next year and he loves his school. He is challenged in his classes, especially in math and loves the library and the librarian. His test scores demonstrate strong academic growth these last two years and I feel confident he will be ready for an academic program in high school. My son has a diverse group of friends and has many ways to be social and to be involved in school. In the fall he plans to participate in the Youth Musical Theatre Company fall production which will take place on the Willard campus. My son particularly enjoys the annual Spring Day celebration, a long time Willard community event with activities, field games, a barbeque and more! Mr. Ithurburn is a superb principal who knows the students, and their families, by name. The PTA is extremely active and supportive.
—Submitted by a parent

The new pr incipal, Robert Itherburn, is doing an excellant job adding new extracurricular activities, involving parents, and maintaining a high level of academic rigour. The school is currently being remodeled, and many staff development workshops focus on how to support adolescent development and behaviors in positive ways. A wonderful school!
—Submitted by a staff