School has hard working teachers, and wonderful student and family population. Leadership leads lots to be desired: not accomodating and mistreat staff. Hard working teachers is what drives this school, not the leadership. I would look at other options when choosing this as a place to work or send my child.

My husband and I had a difficult choice, as we were accepted at Eaton -- a well regarded school where some of our Mt Pleasant neighbors send their kids. We are very happy with our choice to stay at Bancroft, the local school nestled against Rock Creek Park. We love the bilingual immersion program and the new "tools of the mind" curriculum -- a UN approved approach to teaching real life skills and self-regulation (making intentional, considered choices etc.) The focus the school puts on gardening / growing food and field trips was also a huge plus. Bancroft does a fantastic job at uniting racially, ethnically and economically diverse groups: we have become involved in the PTA to help the school improve its test scores, which mask how wonderful this school is. I think Bancroft could be the next Oyster.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a hidden gem. My daughter has had a very successful school year. She is in the PS-3 immersion class. Neither my husband or I are Spanish speakers and my daughter is pretty fluent. I could not have had selected better teachers. The aftercare program is good and well organized. The teachers do a wonderful job with the kids. The PTA is strong and active. I have enjoyed the kids and parents we have met this year. There are tons of family and student events happening through the school year. All have been fun and VERY well organized. The school itself could use a facelift, but that is minor to me. The education my daughter has received has been top notch this year and this coming from someone who has been a professional in education for over 10 years in one of the best area districts. My husband and I were drawn to Bancroft because it is bilingual and I really want to support neighborhood schools. However, if we were dissatisfied we would have pulled her and sent her to another school. Luckily we are very happy and plan to send our son to Bancroft in another year. Take a chance on this school, you will not be sorry.
—Submitted by a parent

We have been pleased with the school as a whole and very impressed with her teacher in particular. The PS 3 immersion class is wonderful and we love that we walk to school and see friends and neighbors along the way. It really makes you feel part of a smaller community.
—Submitted by a parent

I have lived within a few blocks of Bancroft since I was a college student, and I am now pleased to be sending my older child there. The dual language/Spanish immersion is a wonderful opportunity for both native English and Spanish-speaking children. The atmosphere is especially friendly and warm. I hope to see continued innovation in their programs and support for the hard-working staff.
—Submitted by a parent

I love Bancroft's nurturing and supportive environment. The bilingual program is fantastic, too. Staff and administration are always available to answer questions and address concerns.
—Submitted by a parent

I love the interaction that the school have with the children as well as the local community!
—Submitted by a parent

This school has done a wonderful job with my son. I am very pleased and would recommend it to everyone
—Submitted by a parent

The dual-language program used is a huge asset, as is the special ed inclusion. Family atmosphere and, miraculously, teachers seem to know all 450 students. Plenty of attention for each child here. It's not perfect but it's a public school. If Bancroft can weather the current DCPS administration (Rhee and co.) they will remain the well-kept secret gem they are. Diversity of student body is another huge asset.
—Submitted by a parent

What I love most is the dedication of the teachers, the activities, and the support by the local community for children and children's activities. My daughter who is not a native Spanish speaker is learning so much so fast my husband and I have to start taking lessons ourselves. I also like how they address the needs of students. My daughter reads a grade ahead of her age and they give her work that is up to her level while incorporating those differences in her regular class. Her class also includes special needs children who participate seamlessly. Bancroft is gem in the DC School system and we are lucky to be here.
—Submitted by a parent

What I like most about Bancroft is the international student body, which I believe will prepare my grandson to particpate in a global society! The majority of the children are from homes where the primary language spoken is Spanish, which presents some instructional challenges. But, the principal and teachers are dedicated, the parents are supportive of the school. By the time my grandson leaves Bancroft I expect that he'll be fluent in Spanish (and maybe Vietnamese since is best friend emigrated from that country).