Hillbrook School

Our kids went there for several years. Wonderful, broad base program (sports, arts, etc); unfortunately, the academics implementation is inconsistent. It depends on the grade level and the teacher your child has, often, they are unable to differentiate and meet the needs for different type of abilities. The school is working on improving the academics / curriculum so it could be a better school in a few years. Socially it's a small school and finding friends with similar interests might also be an issue, especially if your child is not a jock. They do have good acceptance rate into local Catholic high schools.

Hillbrook has been the perfect fit for our family. Our child has not only been well prepared academically, but more importantly has been taught important life skills such as the importance of giving back, being a leader, public speaking, critical thinking and being given many opportunities to discover several passions outside of the core curriculum. The strength of this school is the faculty who are passionate about their teaching and who always go the extra mile to support the kids and they are supported by a strong administration who are constantly seeking innovative ways to deliver the very broad curriculum.
--Submitted by a parent

When we decided to move to California in 2007 and researched which school would be the best fit for our family, there seemed to be only one choice, Hillbrook. We were drawn to the Hillbrook s mission to foster childrens natural curiousity and teach them to be critical thinkers. During our tour of the school, the administration and faculty that we met along with the beautiful setting made us realize that a Hillbrook education was a gift we should try to give our children. Two and a half years later, I consider us extremely fortunate to have found such a warm, intellectually stimulating environment for our children. They receive individualized attention and are recognized for their unique talents and skills. They absolutely love going to school every day - seriously! It is amazing to see.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent with kids at Hillbrook and we love it! Our children are thriving here! I can't say enough about how much the teachers care and how they work with the kids individually. The academics are top notch, and I also really like the service learning projects that they do in each grade. I feel like my kids are getting the best education possible and learning to be good citizens and caring people, too. My children love school and love learning and I thank Hillbrook for that.
--Submitted by a parent

I've been a Hillbrook parent for several years and have found the school to be exceptional. I believe it is easily the finest school in the South Bay for several reasons: classes are small, students are challenged individually, and children become poised, confident and communicative in addition to being prepared for high school. If you place high value on love of learning in addition to knowledge, Hillbrook is for you. If you want traditional rote or an academic grind, the fit might not be quite right.
--Submitted by a parent

Hillbrook fosters a supportive community creating a unique environment where children are academically challenged while having fun! Students bulid meaningful, lasting friendships across all grade levels. The older children act as natural mentors for the younger students. On campus you'll see rockets being launched with thought provoking questions by students. Students are engaged and take responsibility for their learning at Hillbrook. Teachers and the administration understand your child and how to help your child learn in a way that's meaningful to them. We've been at the school for three years going on our fourth. We've been very happy with the school. Hillbrook not only prepares children academically but also socially and emotionally. Hillbrook students have a very high level of emotional intelligence where they are confident, learn how to resolve issues, and well spoken.
--Submitted by a parent

As you walk on the campus of Hillbrook School you are greeted with the sounds of children laughing, and learning, nature, music and conversation. It is a stimulating environment. Our family has been at the school for eight years. Hillbrook is a school where children matters. Administrators and teachers care and really know and understand each child . The curriculum is rich and integrated. It stretches each child's academic growth with imagination and creativity. Our three children are thriving and look forward to going to school every day.
--Submitted by a parent

I shockingly agree with the reviewer below. When I called HB and told them that I would like some info about enrolling my sons in 1st and 3rd, the first thing they asked was "what's wrong with their current school situation." Might as well have asked me "what's wrong with your kids?!" I told them that we were considering moving to Los Gatos, and then they said "Check out our website. If you are still interested, call back to take one of our monthly tours." Wow, nice marketing. Needless to say we were not impressed, so we didn't puruse HB further.

Have been disappointed in HB. We are considering the school for our child and the administration acts as if they don't have time for prospective parents/students (won't return calls) and would rather you 'visit the website instead' (direct quote).
--Submitted by a parent

This is my daughter's first year at Hillbrook and I am very impressed. She is performing academically at a higher level, and is demonstrating a new sense of confidence. This is a great school if you have an inquisitive child, who doesn't always follow the crowd. There is room and respect for children who want to smell the flowers once in a while.
--Submitted by a parent