Brinckerhoff Elementary School

If your child needs any help academically this is not your school. When my son was struggling I was told by the teacher and principal that he would have to be special ed to get help. Teacher told me "we are not allowed to stay after to help students." If you speak out for improvement, you are in the minority, most of these parents are just happy to be rid of their kids for the day.
—Submitted by a parent

I live in Hopewell Junction, borderline to Fishkill and I have three kids in this schoo. A rating of 5 our of 10 does not do this justice. The faculty, parents and kids have all been fantastic. I would give this school at least a 7 if not 8.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school and have remained here despite the need to move. We have put off the move until my son is out of Brinckerhoff and onto middle school. Though I believe that some of his teachers need to become more involved, the overall feeling is one of partnership with the parent.
—Submitted by a parent

I loved Brinkeroff, I am sad to say that today was my daughters last day at the school we have moved out of zone. I know that my child got a good education with a great foundation. I am sorry to have to leave. The entire staff was wonderful, they all took the time to know each child. Prin. Platz went above and beyond to help our family during a very turbulent time in my life. She sheltered my child from the potential gossip and finger pointing and she was kind and compassionate to me. Deb at the front dest always was a dear and watched kids that came in before school started because sometimes parents had to be at work early, the libraian always knew what my child needed and as a result she is very good reader.
—Submitted by a parent

I am really not pleased with this school..Although there is a lot of smiles and nice appearences overall the heart is lacking. Its a CYA attitude and not much true concern for the student. I don't think the staff including principle really understands that we know the parents what is best for our kids! There is not a sense of meeting of the minds and we have caught them in a couple of deceptive conversations. I have called other resourses about concerns. Procceed with an open mind but stand up for what you feel is right for your kids. Concerned parent Anita
—Submitted by a parent

My boys love the school. The afterschool activities are great and so is the before school activities like 'circus act'. The teachers are really involved in making these kids into well rounded people.
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school. The teachers and staff are caring and responsive. The assistance to the kids goes well beyond the academic work - they teachers are truly concerned with the kids success.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has taken a turn for the worst since the new principal, Ms. Platz has come on board. She does not show leadership qualities. She is very weak in disciplining students. The teacher quality has become very poor over the past three years.
—Submitted by a parent

I have four children. Three of mine are in John Jay High School right now with the fourth in Brinckerhoff. The educational experience (for my children as well as myself) has been phenomenal. The student teacher ratio is great - The staff is open to parental support/involvement and the children learn in a nurturing environment. I highly recommend Brinck!
—Submitted by a parent

I love Brinkeroff Elementary School. My daughter attended kindergarten and was an overflow student. She was suppose to go to our zone school - but I did what I could to keep her at Brinkeroff. As a result, I drive her to and from school. But it is worth the drive. The Principal Paltz is great along with the entire staff. Keep up the good work!
—Submitted by a parent

As I have watched my 3 children attend Brincherhoff Elementary School, it has been such an honor for me and my children to attend this great little school. It has a family feeling and has given my children a start that has propelled them through middle school with the most of ease. Words cannot express how grateful I am for what the teachers and staff have instilled in my children. No one had to tell me that the teachers and staff were doing a Great job, I could see if first hand in my children, and for that I am truly grateful.
—Submitted by Timothy Evans, a parent

Brinkerhoff is an excellent school with a very comfortable feeling. Teachers are excellent in every grade level and I guarentee your child will be happy. Amazing P.E. program as well as music and art. They will love for you parents to help them in their PTA. Send your children to Brinkerhoff! {Trust this from a former student who LOVED it}
—Submitted by a former student

I am an involved parent with two children attending Brinckerhoff. While there is room for improvement, I have been satisfied with the education they are receiving at this school. We have had good teachers who really care about the success of my children. I believe the staff is dedicated to their students and willing to work with parents, but it takes a proactive parent to make this happen here. The 4th and 5th grade music programs are outstanding, with the credit going to district support from Robert Jutton and Brinckerhoff's own incredible Miss Sanderl. There are many class volunteers and the PTA has has a dedicated core group. The school is emerging from a period of low moral and limbo after the retirement of its principal and a long, difficult search for the new one. The future looks bright for Brinckerhoff.
—Submitted by a parent

My son is currently in the Special Ed 3rd grade class here at Brinckerhoff Elementary. I have seen tremendous difference in him academically. His self confidence is night and day. The teachers are amazing and care for each one of the kid. I have had a great experience working with them and we have constant communication through a notebook and phone calls. With everyone working together, you can surely see the difference and the dedication from these teachers. The entire school as well as the district has really done wonders for him. I have never had any problems with the school or the district. I am very glad that he attends Brinckerhoff.
—Submitted by Michelle, a parent

Brinckerhoff is a high quality and sought after school. But, the children excel only w/help from their parents. Unless, you are lucky to get one of the few excellant teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

Too little teaching and learning is happening in the classroom. Parents are expected to do it all or hire a tutor.
—Submitted by a parent