Bracher Elementary School

I am not a fan of Bracher. I am sure that there are worse schools out there but my experience with Bracher has not been a pleasent one. I will not say all but some of the teachers do not grade acuratley. We moved to Santa Clara from Cupertino. Cupertino was an AMAZING school district and while I understand that not all are the same, I don't understand how my daughter went from a straight "A" (they grade with numbers all 4 and a couple of 3's) to Bracher where she got stratight 2's for her first 2 report cards and then straight 3's at the end of the year. Several parent told me this would happen. Also, the teachers comments were that she doesn't read enough and can't recall what she read and tell you about it. That same tri-mester she got an award for reading so much. Also, my daughter reads at college level and can almost recite the books she reads back to you in their entirety. Now we are having issues with my son's 2nd grade teacher and how confusing her homework sheet is and the confusion is causing a lot of frustration.
--Submitted by a parent

Bracher Elementary School has fabulous, very dedicated teachers, staff and a new principal this year. The teachers are very thorough, well organized, collaborative, care deeply about their students, truly teach students how to do things and why it matters, and instill a sense of confidence both emotionally and academically in the children. Students are taught to "always do their best". Ms. Allegretti is a phenomenal teacher and is one of those rare teachers who reaches out to all of her students and their parents. She is extremely accessible, creative, organized and cares so much for her students. Kathy in the office is a huge asset to the school and shows huge care for students and parents. Principal Leach, who is new, is off to a running start getting everything together in a very tough budget year. The parents who are involved in PTA are great and genuine though more involvement is needed from more parents. We are very happy with Bracher and our child is excited to go there every day and is proud to go to Bracher.
--Submitted by a parent

I LOVE this school! My daughter started Bracher at 2nd grade and I was a bit hesitant but by the end of the school year, I was very pleased. She is now in 5th grade and has had the same teacher for 2nd, 4th and 5th! We love Mr. Fry....pays attention to the student and definitely lets you know of any concerns. All of the teachers at Bracher are very good, friendly and welcoming. We started with Dr. K as principal, who we all miss terribly, but Ms. Fore, is wonderful! She is friendly, kind, sincere and always has a smile on her face. I have a 1st grader who loves the school as well. Their kindergarten program is great! Our PTA is small and the few "active" parents do all we can for the children. Really wish more parents would participate. Anyhow, sadly, we will be continuuing our journey at a different city. We will definitely miss Bracher.....our "family-like" community.
--Submitted by a parent

We,too, have transferred our son to Bracher from a nearby elementary school this year. We are so happy to be part of this school! They have a true leader, the principal, who is dedicated and has a firm belief that all kids can learn and thrive. And I love my son's teacher: she is the best! I am amazed at how generous she is with her time and is attentive to each child that comes her way ---even to the younger siblings. Most of all, everyone I come across this campus seem 'happy'! I think that is a genuine sign of true leadership and team spirit. Go Bobcats!
--Submitted by a parent

I recently pulled my children out of a nearby elementary school and put them at Bracher. It was the best decision I have ever made. From the principal to the teachers they are very caring, and very well organized. I love the school and my kids love it too. They no longer dread going to school everyday!
--Submitted by a parent

My child has been at Bracher since kindergarden and I think that Bracher is a great school and wonderfull teachers and staff.My daughter is Graduating this year and Im going to miss Bracher very much and I cant wait for my son to attend this School.
--Submitted by a parent

My oldest daughter has been attending here since K. She is now in 5th grade. We had moved a couple times, home & school, the whole nine yards. Yet each time we moved back & she was back at Bracher it was just as exciting as the 1st day of Kindergarten. The office staff, & teachers provide excellent support for the students at a supberb personal level, & academic level as well. Knowing how well the staff does with the children can easily put any parents mind at ease. Now my 6yr. old is attending 1st grade, nothing has changed within the school, except the faces of the kids. I know that my younger daughter will grow to have excellent grades just as my oldest daughter has done, thans to Bracher. I can't wait for my 4yr. old son to start.
--Submitted by a parent

I have send all three of my children through this school. They had had the best educational experience that we could possible find for them. They have been challenged to meet their full academic potential. They most importantly have had fun doing so. The teaching staff is very caring and willing to do anything to help children that need additional help. The only problem with this school is the lack of parent help. The parents that do help, seem to have fun doing so, and achieve more they one could expect. The administrative staff, keep everything together. They are visible in the school, and approachable. I would highly recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

Bracher School is a great school when it comes to getting children at or above their academic levels. They acknowleged, assessed and assisted me in getting my daughter into a program which greatly assisted in her speech deficiency. She was having trouble sounding out g and k. My son's kindergarten teacher, Ms. Allegretti is the most organized, patient, and helpful teacher I've come across since my school years. She taught my son more than I expected. Mrs. Da Silva also assisted me with my sons reading and comprehension. She knew he had potential and got me involved. I just assisted in the Bracher Bop and great to see many parents involved in their children's school activities. I'm so blessed my children are attending Bracher.
--Submitted by Janet Te'o, a parent

I was a student here just a couple of years ago. I felt that the programs and curriculum offered were below what one would expect from a school in an area that has so much to offer. Too bad the children won't be able to compete in thier own backyard. At least I made lasting friendships and found one teacher I will always remember. Extracurricular activities were so predictable--meaning mundane and unimaginative.
--Submitted by a former student