Castillero Middle School

This is no longer a neighborhood school in Almaden. They have 9 buses that bus in kids from out of area. The school is over populated. The administration lowers standards(academic and behavior) to accommodate bus in population. This school has really gone down the last few years. Kids get easy A's without much effort. They don't prepare kids well for HS. They sacrifice academics for performing arts. Administration doesn't do much with problem kids, rule enforcement. Kids know there are no consequences for bad behaviors. Parents concerns and feedback are not heard by the admin. The school offers lots of choices in electives but only 1 semester of Science. It is great for kids that likes performing arts. There are some great passionate teachers but they spent more time controlling classroom than teaching due to disruptive kids. Leadership is lacking at Castillero. The administration is in denial about the problems. Some of them they can't fix due to SJUSD mandates but a lot they can. Some parents are also in denial because their kids are enjoying and doing well in performing arts. There should be no reason why we can't have both, good academics and performing arts electives.
--Submitted by a parent

We were not happy here at all. Many teachers who should be FIRED and are not. Students who need help don't get it, administrators turn their backs on them. Discrimination against students who are not into any performing arts programs runs rampant; both from administrators and other students. Huge problem with cliques and groups who think they are IT, primarily girls in dance who can be extremely cruel. Many students have a chip on their shoulders. Classrooms are also often uncontrolled, and this is the SCHOOL'S fault for not removing those students and contacting the parents, rather than leaving them in the classrooms to disturb those who want to learn..
--Submitted by a parent

This is my son's second year here at this school . Just like every other junior high this school does face some troubled kids and some "wanna be" gang problems. However, I think the pro's outweigh the con's. I am very satisfied with the admin staff here at this school. Teachers and faculties can only do so much to stop the "bad" kids. Its up to the parents at home to raise their kids better!
--Submitted by a parent

Not a good school if you want support from the principal or academic counselor. I agree with other parents and students is that if you're into music program, then it is a great school. The music teacher is excellent and is passionate about teaching. Unfortunately, there are also teachers in the school who are lazy, non-supportive and have zero passion in teaching. But since they are tenure, their job is safe. It really is a shame.
--Submitted by a parent

Great electives, very creative, some teachers have lots of passion. School really encourages the arts (orcehstra, band, drama, art, spanish). Good curriculum structure and students who excel are recognised with frequent honor awards. School has the largest number of vice-principals. Like most middle schools, kids do misbehave and the discipline in charge is good with dealing with issues. I recommend this school, it also has a good vibe.
--Submitted by a parent

HAS A Gang problem that they don't want to admit to even when the parents bring the issue to them.

This school was higher ranking not too long ago which was more on par with the other Almaden schools. It is bothersome that it has quickly gone from ranking 8 to now a 6. I'm all for it continuing the performing arts and such, but would appreciate a return to a stronger academic program. Rating low on all 3 - teacher, principal, and parent - as it is a problem to solve together and hopefully sooner than later.
--Submitted by a parent

This was the best school I've ever attended (I am a senior in high school now at Leland - DO NOT GO THERE FOR HIGH SCHOOL, trust me). Castillero is a magnet for performing arts, and might as well be for visual arts as well. There are some amazing teachers there, as well as staff and students. All my very best friends I met at Castillero. Yes, there are a few cliques, but for the most part people are friendly, nice, and fun to be around. It is really a fantastic school and I'll recommend it to any student who wants a great education with rich electives. - '07 Class Member

Do not listen to the parent reviews. Listen to us kids! We actually take classes at Castillero! They're is no "Popular" and "other" group, but there are a few cliques. The teachers know how to keep down the volume. The staff are wonderful and know the answer to all of your questions if it is about Castillero itself. The acedemics are great, you get chances to learn something new!

I attend Castillero Middle School and I love it here! The teachers are so nice and treat you with respect, I find myself learning new things everyday, and the electives are wonderful! I'm in 2 advance choirs and I love it! The teachers use creative ways to teach you new lessons and its always fun. If you're going to be in this school later, you shouldn't worry about what teacher you get, because all the teachers are awesome!