New Brighton Middle School

250 Washburn Avenue

School District

Soquel Union Elementary
Grade

6-8
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:20
Type

public

School Map for Soquel Union Elementary School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on August 13, 2024

My daughter attended 6th grade before pulling her out. The school has killed any inspiration for learning she once had. The leadership is downright incompetent as we and other families we know have had zero support/accountability on issues ranging from bullying, drug solicitation in the bathrooms, antisemitism, students with needs not getting their entitled benefits, overall poor academics... I know my daughter didn't feel safe going there after an incident she had...in addition to a bomb scare that cancelled the first day of school. There was also a legit firearm threat that was fortunately neutralized by police before anything happened, but the campus format is completely unsecure. From all accounts, there apparently are a few teachers there who are competent and inspirational, but my daughter didn't experience any of them. Zero stars for the administration. After dealing with them, a strong vote of "no confidence." If you are a voter reading this, it's time to oust Turnbull and get a real staff. They have completely failed the community.
Submitted by parent on March 09, 2023

Horrible rampant bullying at this school with kids constantly throwing around racist, homophobic, transphobic, and ableist slurs. I continue to be shocked at the constant harassment that my child has received. The school has been alerted to this but it just seems like the inmates are running the asylum and there are too many hateful kids and no way to catch and discipline them. i have since found out from multiple people in passing that New Brighton has had a reputation as a school with a terrible bullying problem, and has so for years. I would have never sent our child here if I had known this, and we are currently trying to find a new school for next year as my child has developed depression, anxiety, and engaged in self-harm as a result of the torment. Stay away if you can.
Submitted by other on March 11, 2021

I went to school here for sixth grade before having to move in seventh. I loved this school so much. The bullying was a problem that I saw a lot. I would recommend this school to many. The teachers were helpful and kind. Although the dress code is absurd. Girls are not aloud to wear tank tops and short shorts, because they are deemed "distracting". This is extremely sexist and hope to see it improve. However despite these things, the school seems to care about its students and school pride.
Submitted by parent on May 12, 2017

Used to be a good school, bullying is a real problem there now.
Submitted by parent on June 12, 2014

My daughter has sadly attended this school for the past two years and she and I will be glad to move one. This school is focused on everything but whats important which is the students and their success. I've always felt a very negative atmosphere. Ms. Cervantes makes comments to students that are un acceptable like "Ill see you next year", "your not going to graduate" quote on quote. This school is only worried about ratings and not the students. . A Very disappointed Parent
Submitted by parent on August 29, 2013

Great school counselor (Bernard Larsen). Truly, he is excellent. Unfortunately, he has to serve two middle schools. It would be great if the district could afford another counselor to lighten Bernard's load. This would allow him to provide longer and more personalized help to kids who need counseling.
Submitted by parent on July 21, 2011

My son attended New Brighton in 6th and 7th grades. We moved to San Mateo before his 8th grade year. Vito had the best teachers at New Brighton: Ms. Roster and Ms. Bridi for Humanities and Mr. Segura for Art stand out as stellar, inspirational instructors. I have taught secondary school in California for more than 12 years, and I have nothing but good things to say about the staff and administration at New Brighton Middle School.
Submitted by parent on July 17, 2011

We've been very happy here. Very dedicated staff and great leadership. Definitely one of the best middle schools in the area.