Pleasant Valley Elementary School

Great school! The cooperation between teachers, administration, PTA and parent volunteers makes what makes this school shine. Principal Terry Brown knows the first names of every one of the 410 students and she leads a team of hardworking teachers and staff who are student focused and teach not only the academics, but citizenship as well. Volunteers provide strong support in the classrooms, bringing small group (5 students) instruction which is differentiated to challenge students on all levels. Volunteers run school events and support the teaching staff in a variety of ways. The school has a dedicated PTA organization that fundraises in effective and fun ways to provide financial support for the classrooms and for enrichment programs.
--Submitted by a parent

Wonderful school! My child is now in 7th grade Middle school GATE. PV gave him a superior education. He has been a 4.0 since starting Sinaloa Middle. I owe this to the teachers who saw his potential and pushed him to work harder. He also has an amazing set of friends from Pleasant Valley. A great community school.
--Submitted by a parent

We were sadly disappointed in this school. Under the last principle, our student as well as several friends and families students were not a priority. Instead it was the relationship between the teachers and former principle. Fortunately she is no longer there. It is frightening that she is not in a high position in the school district. Makes me ponder the districts priorities. Hopefully Ms. Gavin will give Pleasant Valley what it deserves, great leadership and re-frame the way a handful of teachers look at things.
--Submitted by a parent

Very tight knit community! Teachers are enthusiastic and PTA has organized monthly community building activities to further enhance this.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is not only a GREAT neighborhood school but according to what some middle school teachers have said - 'The kids at Pleasant Valley are the most prepared and ready for middle school than any other school in Novato'.
--Submitted by a parent

Pleasant Valley is a wonderful school with great families and a faculty that is very special. The Principal Terry Gavin Brown is fabulous!
--Submitted by a parent

Yes there is lots of parental involvement at Pleasant Valley which is what makes it work. But as far as the former principal (fortunately she's gone, but is now the problem of Hill Middle School in Novato), and a few specific teachers, you'll not get much in the way of support for a child who has even the slightest need for additional help. Go to Rancho if you can get in.
--Submitted by a parent

Lots of parent involvement. Principal was recognized as top in Marin County for elementary this year. Nice mix of academic and arts.
--Submitted by a parent

Pleasant Valley is a neighborhood school whose students consistently score among the highest in the state. The quality of the teachers is excellent; and parents in the school community are very active and involved. It is considered one of the top two most desirable elementary schools in Novato.
--Submitted by a parent