Brooks Elementary School

Great teachers but I wish they had a gifted program or at least let more advanced students work at their own level especially in math.

I agree with both posts below. The teachers here are wonderful. Many great ones and they do love these kids! But parents here are talking more and more about the math problems. We need to change with the times and get a new math curriculum other than this Chicago or Everyday Math system we use. Something more parent friendly so we can help our kids at home with it. It's time for change...but not for our teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

My 3 kids have been at this school for the past 7 years, and think it's a great school. The teachers, admin, and everyone really care about your child. There are so many exceptional teachers here I can't name them all.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been in a downward spiral for years now. Lowest MCAS scores in Medford. Ineffective principal. TERC math coming in 2011. Only going to get worse!
--Submitted by a parent

I think the parent's review is subjective, although, I personally believe that there are some ( K.Garthen, 1st and 4th grade) good teachers, there are some useless ones. The test scores tab says it all: http://www.greatschools.org/modperl/achievement/ma/3012#from..Tab and that all goes to the administration, not putting blame on funds, ... a lots of kids time goes to waste, no h.works,...etc.
--Submitted by a parent

Our experience at the Brooks has been fantastic. I've been extremely impressed with not only the teachers my child has had but also the principals dedication to the children. This is a unique and special school. We feel lucky to have such a 'private school feel' at a public school cost!
--Submitted by a parent

We've had nothing but postive experiences here. The teachers, support staff, and other parents are incredible and the kids themselves are a very nice group. While the administration may be a bit weak from time to time, they do try to solicit parent feedback when they can. My kids are happy to go to school every day, and they are excited about what they learn. That's half the battle.
--Submitted by a parent

While most of the teachers at the Brooks school are great, some are downright incompetent. The problem then becomes those with connections get the desirable teachers and the rest get the leftovers. The administration is not proactive, they simply try to put out fires. On the positive side, there is a great deal of parent involvement and a strong PTO.
--Submitted by a parent

The Brooks School is supposed to be the 'superior' of all elementary schools in the area. Although they have a state of the art facility, they have administration who are weak and are big into being PC. The PTO is outstanding. My child is a transfer student who received a less than seasoned teacher the first year in the school. The children run the class and I am afraid my child will be 'left in the dust' when the next year comes around. This is just my experience, though, and, although I would not stop anyone from attending the school, be aware that I was surprised at the way my child's transfer was handled and know that you will not get a great deal of assistance from administration.
--Submitted by a parent