Brassfield Elementary School

This is an amazing school with a well-qualified staff and excellent leadership. Dr. Barker is very approachable and open to new ideas. Students are well-behaved and smart. Students are encouraged to think outside the box and teachers work hard to meet the needs of all the children. This is the best kept secret in Wake County - it's worth moving to the area to attend this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Both my sons have attended Brassfield for the past 5 years. My oldest son is in the AG class for Reading/Math and until this year, I was not impressed with their curriculum. A new principal started last year and a new AG teacher this year, and it seems to have really improved. He is actually getting homework for AG! We are very pleased with the teachers and new principal. As in any school, there are a few teachers we weren't impressed with, but overall, we think it's an excellent school!
—Submitted by a parent

Great school for most kids. Not run efficiently for Gifted Children who want to go to school in a safe neighborhood. Top end kids will not be challenged. Must push Hard to get any help. There is lot's of parental involvement at grades K-3.
—Submitted by a parent

This school may be one of the best in Wake County, but NOT for a gifted child. If you have a child that is advanced in their education or ability to learn, this is not the school for them! The principle will simply not take a pro-active role in helping to challenge or push a child. Simply achieving grade norms is the goal, and not seeking to advance, challenge or grow the minds of those that need and want more challenge. The advanced classes are limited to one 40 minute session per week, and are only offered beginning in 4th grade. And then the 4th grade teachers are inaccessible to parents.
—Submitted by a parent

My son attended Brassfield and I found the quality of his education exceptional. Both principals were accessible and understanding. The few conflicts I had with teachers were easily resolved. Questions and concerns were always addressed professionally. In my experience children were treated with respect and genuine affection. My son graduated with strong work habits and good character values and adjusted easily to middle school where he is now an A student who expresses a sincere love of learning. The pta is involved in all aspects of the school. Also as a teacher of a contained classroom I can attest to the fact that the principal and faculty work hard to ensure that all students are treated fairly and as individuals. The staff promote a commitment to teaching children of all learning styles while having high expectations for growth.
—Submitted by a parent

I have had three children at Brassfield for the past five years, one is a 'special needs' student. I have nothing but praise for all the teachers, principal and staff. Teachers I have found are extremely confident and communitive with the parent. I am sorry the other respondent to this survey had such an awful experience. I clearly have not. This is my last year at Brassfield, and I and my child will miss it greatly. My other children that are now in Middle School are doing extremely well and get mostly straight A's. I feel this was their foundation of learning they recieved from Brassfield. I love this school!
—Submitted by a parent

As one of the few neighborhood schools left in Wake County Brassfield offers an excellent second and third grade team each. However, at all grade levels the physical education and music programs are poor, lacking stimulation and demand for quality. Again, as is the norm in Wake County public instruction students at either end of the scholastic spectrum do not have their needs met due to the principal's lack of knowledge. (yes, that means ADHD students) 'Buyer Beware' is my advice to those considering enrolling for the upcoming school year. Parental involvement is limited by personality conflicts with the principal. You may not be permitted to volunteer at any level or observe. Ms. Corporan, the media specialist is a genuine asset to the enthusiasm of the learning environment. Health issues with mold are being addressed. However, the trailers continue to have many problems. Communication is nonexistant with the fourth grade teams.
—Submitted by a parent