Archway School

1940 Virginia Street

Berkeley, CA 94709

5 Reviews

School District
Grade

5-8
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on February 10, 2014

This is our son's first year at Archway and the transition has been excellent for him. He has definitely benefited from the small class size, the adaptable teaching approach and the hands-on environment. He comes home excited about learning and has gained more confidence in his academic skills - which I attribute largely to a teaching staff that is dedicated, engaged and focused on the kids. I also like that they are getting exposure to off-site learning - like PE at the Berkeley YMCA. We're very pleased.
Submitted by parent on February 09, 2014

Archway is an extraordinary small school in North Berkeley. My son has been inspired and excited by his classes and his teachers (who are rock stars, every one). They really understand middle school kids here, and know how to keep them engaged and learning (no easy task). We are particularly pleased that the school is intimate enough so that all of the teachers and students know each other (my son has friends in all the grades, not just his own). Because of the small class size, the teachers are able to give extra help or more challenging work, depending on what's appropriate. This means that my son is really *learning* the material. Also, at a small school, every student shines, even the shy ones. The parent community is warm and caring, too, which is an added plus. Archway's been a great experience for our son.
Submitted by parent on February 06, 2014

Archway is simply an amazing school. We transferred our daughter to Archway from our (good) local public school in 6th grade, where she had been receiving little individualized attention, the teaching was uninspired, and where we frequently felt that because she was quiet and well-behaved, she got lost in the crowd. She generally disliked school, despite having many good friends there. Archway has made a HUGE difference for my daughter. It is remarkable to see how confident and happy she has become. The teachers are simply amazing (every single one) and the school prides itself on empowering each student and addressing their individual needs. Many schools state that they offer project-based learning, but Archway stands out as a school that does this exceptionally well. The school environment is warm, friendly, and supportive. It has a great location - in the Gourmet Ghetto in Berkeley - and the kids have opportunities to explore the community on field trips (of which there are many - both local walking trips and bus trips further out). Archway has been nothing short of amazing for our daughter. We are so happy to have found this school.
Submitted by parent on January 29, 2014

I have had two children at Archway School; very different kids but Archway has been great for both of them. One had specific learning challenges and the other did not. Since classes are small (under 16) the teachers focus on knowing each child individually and teach to their strengths and weaknesses. They're accessible to parents, as is the head of school, for talking through any issue that comes up. Very supportive and highly attuned to kids' and parents' needs. Lots of focus on hands-on projects and "real-world" lessons that make the subject matter more fun and interesting. Though small, it's very diverse. Nice facility, too, with bright classrooms, gym, kitchen. May be the best kept secret among middle schools in the East Bay.
Submitted by parent on October 16, 2013

Archway is like no other middle school in the area. The very small class size creates am close relationships; teachers REALLY know your child. Hands -on, project-based learning --- for what child is that NOT best? My daughter was invisible in public school. At Archway she thrives, works hards and feels rewarded. A few years ago Archway was in disarray, but the current Head of School recruited an extraordinary team of masterful teachers and we couldn't be happier. My older children attended Prospect Sierra, another fabulous school, I for this child prospect was too boisterous and overwhelming. Archway is the perfect fit.