Bloom Elementary School

This school is just great. Teachers are not only nice but very dedicated to these kids. The principal is open to suggestions and is very caring with the kids. I can say only positive things about Bloom Elementary School.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been very pleased with this school - most all of the teachers are very talented and have a passion for teaching and truly care about their students. The principal knows every student and does a tremendous job of keeping everyone focused on what is best for the students - and balances all the demands of a public school. It has been my experience that she is available to parents when they have concerns. The class sizes range from 24 to 30 students. This is not a magnet school so there are a wide range of students with different abilities. Most parents are very involved in the school and there is a large group who volunteer to provide unique enrichment activities for the children both during school and after school. My children feel safe and happy at the school and feel as they are an important part of the school community.
--Submitted by a parent

Overall, I am happy with Bloom. Most of the teachers are very nice, but I do wish they would differentiate more. Class sizes are too large (sometimes 35+). The principal's personality has changed over the last two years and many parents are not supportive of her. She does not support a lot of parent involvement and can even be hostile at times. I don't feel like she connects with the student population. Bloom is changing and not for the better. If it weren't for the teachers, my child wouldn't go to Bloom.
--Submitted by a parent

I agree, I wasn't happy with way bullying is handled either. Overall the 80 percent of the teachers are really nice. I was very disappointed by some of the members of the PTA who are very cliquish and snobbish and exclude members who may not be of the same economic background . It is very disturbing because the school is located in the heart of the Highlands , and well Highlands is known for its diversity! Right! I agree that one of the teacher in particular does not want to communicate when I ask her about my child's progress in school and is very standoffish. If I had to do it over I would choose an another school for my child.
--Submitted by a parent

The Principle is excellent! The teacher quality is above average. The parents are highly involved.
--Submitted by a parent

I am dissappointed at the level of teacher / principal response to bullying. Another serious concern is the lack of teacher response when my child was doing poorly. We had such a positive year last year that I fought tooth and nail to have my child remain there. I never dreamed that we would have so much trouble this year.
--Submitted by a parent

Two yaers ago I was a Student at Bloom. I loved it. All the taechers are nice and almost every body gets along. All the teachers really care about you and want to keep you sdafe and to have a good education
--Submitted by a student

Bloom was a great school a few years ago - before the renovation, before the new principal arrived. With the new principal, the focus has changed to low-performing students. Some of the Bloom parents think Bloom is a great school simply because they've been fooled by aesthetics. A multi-million dollar renovation was just completed which makes the school not just more functional but also a real architectural gem. So, we're at capacity because the school looks really pretty. Parents can be foolish sometimes. The new principal is a huge disappointment. She has eliminated several very important academic programs and extracurricular activites for high-achieving students. I think people just care about how nice the building looks. I have two children at Bloom and we are pulling them at the end of this year to attend private (NOT PAROCHIAL) school. If you have a smart kid, don't send them to Bloom.
--Submitted by Very Disappointed Bloom Parent, a parent

My daughter has just completed Kindergarten at Bloom Elementary and we have loved it! Her teacher, Mrs. Werner was excellent and is committed to literacy. Upon completing her Kindergarten year, my child tested at a 2nd grade reading level. We have had nothing but excellent exeperiences with the staff and have enjoyed the opportunities provided for after school activities like Young Rembrandts and Tae Kwon Do. They also work with the YMCA to offer a fantastic after school care program on site.
--Submitted by a parent

A wonderful school. Excellent teachers, involved parents, an outstanding principal, and a beautiful old building set in a vibrant, urban neighborhood. During my numerous visits, I always have been impressed with how curious and well-behaved the students were.
--Submitted by a parent