Berkeley Middle School

After spending time in this school I don't know how any learning happens. Students are incredibly disrespectful, classrooms and hallways are out of control and teachers are apathetic. The administration seems to be more into pleasing people than running a successful school. Lip service doesn't get things done. I hear this school was absolutely wonderful just two years ago. If that's true then the current state of this school is a tragedy.

This box "jumps" when I try to type a comment into it once I hit about 100-150 characters..I am unable to report this where I need to as I get an error message that there is no account with my email address yet here I am signed in. PLEASE fix the technical problems here.
--Submitted by a parent

I was so nervous to send my child to middle school, but my worries quickly disappeared. Berkeley administration and staff are superior. My child is constantly challenged in her classes, but is learning so much! A clean, safe and fun learning environment!
--Submitted by a parent

My child recently began middle school and has achieved high grades by the wonderful teachers and staff. they have great resources and educational programs. I highly recomend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

I find Berkeley Middle School to be one of quality education. My chidren have had wonderful teachers with the exception of two, who are no longer teaching at the school. I have found the teachers to be approachable and cooperative regarding parental concerns. My children have benefited from the education they've received there. Administrative weaknesses are due to the turnover of leadership in the last four years. ( My daughter had three different principals during her three years attending Berkeley. ) I'm reserving my comments about the current principal since the first year of leadership can be challenging in its own right. I'd recommend Berkeley Middle School to any parent or student.
--Submitted by a parent

I for one strongly disagree with the other reviews. Berkeley is the best middle school in town. All of the teachers I have had are outstanding! They care about each and every student. As for Dr.Gaston,he's wonderful! I agree that he is working hard and he's much appreciated! I recommend Berkely!
--Submitted by a student

Completely agree w/ the previous post. Although I do have to give props to the few teachers who have been wonderful, stressing on the 'few', for the most part they are the worst group I've ever encountered. The school itself is completely unorganized, and provides a mediocre education at best. Unfortunately, I do not have the means to send my child to private school after spending the exorbitant price on our home just to get him into 'the best middle school in Williamsburg'. If this is the best, I can't even begin to imagine how inept the rest are. I absolutely love living here, but moving my child from a solid NY education is definitely something I struggle w/. One can only hope that the high school is better!!!
--Submitted by a parent

Berkeley has a new principal this year who seems to be working hard to solve the multitude of problems at the school: While there are several good teachers that my children have had, the majority of the teachers are mean, don't seem to like children, and are not good teachers. I would not say Berkeley is a particularly safe school. If your child is lucky he/she may get an average education here. Unfortunatly Berkeley is the 'best' middle school in Williamsburg. After having my children attend this school, I would recommend private school if at all possible !
--Submitted by a parent