St. Brendan School

To the poster that states 8th graders at St Brendan's are scoring at college level on standardized testing, that is simply not true here or at any school in SF. I can tell you the school is filled to capacity. I do wish the classes were smaller, as some of the other parochial schools in San Francisco are. The Kindergarten Class for 2011 had 29 children in it. Is that too many, some may think so, I certainly do not. The school has it's pros and cons. It does tend to lean towards the white upper class, so let's be honest here. The racial diversity is what it is. You will not find any african american children here ( yes that is sad ) and hardly any latino children either. It's primarily upper class Caucasian and Asian children. At their Dinner Dance auction I attended last year, they were auctioning off Botox Treatments for the parents. I agree with the other poster, test scores are not given out, and we've asked for them too. We're always told that all of the students score well above any other school in SF. I would like to see proof of that though.
--Submitted by a parent

It's unfortunate that a previous poster should have a forum for their retaliatory ranting and raving. Certainly, the school, as a living and breathing institution is prone to make mistakes, however not letting this idiot in was not one of them. The school is quite simply - Outstanding! Not because it's Catholic, or private, but because it cares tremendously about every facet of the child's well being, and it shows! The faculty, administration, support staff, and parents are the village that raise the children of St. Brendan's. The students stand taller, shine brighter, and smile wider. The success of the students, and thus the school, is such that generations of returning families fill the seats, leaving little room for new families. The staff is a highly regarded group of caring professional - caring of the students and their education. They not only teach, but they lead by example. This is evident from the top down. The principal knows every child by their first name, and greets them daily with a smile - be it opening a car door or putting on a band-aid. There's a reason why the teachers and staff have such longevity. It's a great place to teach, learn, grow & return.
--Submitted by a parent

I am responding to pevious post where facts are incorrect The current principal has lead the school for the past seven years. There are two classes of kindergarten with a maximum of 20 children per class The school reflects the ethnic make up of the parish and local neighborhood. Over 25% of the population is non caucasion. Since the school is a catholic parish school preference for admission is given to active registered contibuting parishioners of St. Brendan school. The school has wait lists for all its classes . This is testament to the stellar education provided. I am aware that the administration would love to accept all students who applied there, but space is an issue. There is no space to build more classrooms. Students at St. Brendan School consistently show more than 1.7 years growth on standardized test scores, so that by the time they are in eighth grade they score a grade equivalent score of 13+. This means that students at St Brendan School score at the same level as the average college freshman taking the same test. Great teachers. Great students. Great principal. Great parents. Test scores

The school is outstanding. Enrollment, although not very diverse, is stable. The principal and pastor are always available. The current principal is relatively new, but ideally suited for the job. The school's is always so well kept. My child is so delighted here. Faculty is a mix of young and old, but both highly skilled. Many of the personnel have been here for a long time. The school offers a limited number of extracurricular activities, yet with an emphasis on academics. Parent involvement is high - Great parent, great neighborhood! Safety and discipline are not a concern.
--Submitted by a parent

Would rate it 6 stars if that was a choice... fantastic school. We feel very fortunate to be a part of the school and community. Although relatively new to the school and community, we are thoroughly impressed. Lots of parent involvement, great staff, great principal, strong sports program and a serious commitment to the kids from the entire community. If your child has the opportunity to attend, I recommend taking a serious look at this school.
--Submitted by a parent

The school is top rate, the teachers nurturing, supportive and dedicated, and the Mothers' and Mens' clubs are second to none. The principal is devoted to the kids and there couldn't be a better place in the country to send your children to learn how to be great students and more importantly great people. Blessed to be a part of this amazing community.
--Submitted by a parent

We love St. Brendan. It is an excellent school with a great principal and staff.
--Submitted by a parent

I currently have three kids in the school. The very best school in the city (bar none). The students test consistently in the top five of the country among Catholic schools. In Iowa testing, 7th and 8th graders tested #1 in San Francisco. The school is a little deficient in the arts, but great in sports.
--Submitted by a parent

The very best Catholic school in the city. Great mixed of middle class, upper middle class, and upper class families. It also provides for a well grounded students. Kids from this school normally go to SI after graduation, however, they can compete anywhere. J.H. Father
--Submitted by a parent

Quality - Best Catholic grammer school in the city. Sports - As always CYO can't be beat. Parents- Active Father and Mothers club.
--Submitted by a former student