West Branch School

I strongly disagree with the review before this one. Everyone always thinks their child is "heads and shoulders above the other kids in his class" but it seldom may be true. If a child is tested at a new school and is reading at third grade level and doing second grade math, I would think that West Branch School had something to do with that, not say the school was lacking. After all, your child was at WBS an entire school year. The students at WBS tend to always test higher than grade level when they leave WBS because their standards are so high. Teachers at WBS are always open & willing to listen to parents, so I wonder what the parent below did to talk to the teachers and resolve the problems. Suggestions and advice from parents are always accepted and appreciated if one is open and willing to participate in the many activities, committees, and opportunities there are at WBS. All of the teachers are certified teachers and some even hold duel-certifications. The teachers want to help each individual child get the best education possible. A WBS education is not for everyone. Visit and ask lots of questions. Be open and prepared to be very involved with your child's education.
—Submitted by a parent

WBS has been a God-send. Our 4th and 2nd grade kids are happy, challenged and thriving in the supportive home-like environment where kids work at their ability-level, not grade level. Learning is fun so the kids embrace it. Parents are literally welcome anytime - no need to check in at the office. You know your kids' classmates because you will sit in on morning meeting, share a lesson on a topic you choose (with teacher guidance/approval), drive on field trips and help them with makeup before their plays. The highlights of the year for me are: the 3 day trip to a nearby summer camp for songs, hikes, telescope gazing, archery, skits and science lessons and the full-scale Shakespearean play on the professional stage by our 3rd-8th graders. It's amazing what kids can do given the opportunity - and there are many at WBS!
—Submitted by a parent

I think this school is wonderful. Everyone is so friendly. The teachers are all there for you and want to help you get the best education possible. I loved going there, once I was there I never wanted to leave. It is really like a family there.
—Submitted by a former student

The school is parent dependant and is a wonderful atmosphere for the parent who wants to be very involved with their childs education process. It is a very loving safe environment for your child to grow. I highly recommend touring the small but adequate facility and talking one on one with any of the dedicated teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers at West Branch School are extremely committed. They work hard to meet each individual child's learning style. The curriculum is rigorous enriched with many hands-on projects and experiments that culminate the students learning experiences. The environment is relaxed, comfortable and nuturing. I have seen other schools at the end of the day, the students are running out the door and can't wait to get home. At West Branch the children love to learn and often stay to read books or participate in the after school program. My son loves it there and can't imagine going anywhere else. West Branch School is Williamsport's answer to a quality, well-rounded education.
—Submitted by Fay Ortiz, a parent