Birchwood Elementary School

We are new to Niskayuna this year, coming from a district the next town over and need to say I am NOT impressed with this school or their "professionalism" or "care for their students." Seems the staff care more about themselves and their staff appreciation luncheon donations than the kids - seriously 4 memos home on giving $ or food - where are your priorities? My sons 1st Grade teacher is a horror story (I've asked 6 other parents all share the same feeling)!!! She told him two weeks ago he couldn't leave to go to the bathroom and he pooped his pants, made him stay in it all day! Yesterday's issue (he has some fine motor skills issues) and we've been working on him tying his own shoelaces. I pick him up and he's crying saying she screamed and threatened him that if he didn't learn to tie his laces by the end of the week - it doesn't matter how well he does on his weekly work he will not be getting any reward stickers (which mean the world to him) until he masters this. How about sending a note home first Ms. C or calling to discuss? Not bullying or threatening a child??? Now I need to write her a letter because it will get VERY UGLY if I walk in there!
--Submitted by a parent

Birchwood Elementary is like our extended family. You always know they are there for you when you need them.
--Submitted by a parent

The teachers and atmosphere are very positive at Birchwood. Teachers are up-to-date on new teaching techniques and guinine caring of the students and the schooll. My grand-daughter attends Birchwood and she loves it-she is very positive about herself and has learned to be positive with her friends. There is always laughter in the halls of the school and they have great parent and student activities that are done together..

My son is high-functioning autistic and the teachers and students at this school are the best! All are very kind, supportive and accepting. He was a new student to 5th grade and it has been as if he had been there all along. He is very happy.
--Submitted by a parent