Berlyn Elementary School

1320 North Berlyn Avenue

School District

Ontario-Montclair
Grade

K-6
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:20
Type

public

School Map for Ontario-Montclair 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 March 17, 2023

Yes this school has a low rating because many children are Spanish speaking and learning how to read and write in English and on top of that having to take the state tests. That is why the scores are low. Also, the school district is pushing children with lower socio economic status to this school. Apartments that are much closer to the high rated Edison School, are being mapped out to attend Berlyn as to not disrupt the higher scores of Edison school. I know this because the principal of Berlyn is so worried about these kids crossing a busy street that she waited there on the corner to ensure the kids safety. Now that 6th street is closed due to construction of the fwy bridge that is not a concern right now. Berlyns teachers and staff work with all students so hard throughout the year, that it levels out in the end and these students meet the national average. I think this school and the teachers deserve way more credit. To get children who are in revolving door Apartments, Spanish speaking kids, low income families to be on target for the following year is amazing. To top it off this school is very involved with the families and even opens its library to families on Tuesday and Thursdays. They also have a ton of family activities and student clubs. They have a STEM lab, sports and they have a teacher that was recognized for teaching her students coding in class. My son doesn't speak Spanish but had many friends that only spoke Spanish in TK, K and 1st grade. He says that all those kids speak English great now. Does that count for anything? Not according to this school rating but actually changing children's lives, getting families involved and having multiple opportunities and options to help students succeed is what ultimately matters and that what this school does. My son is challenged by his teachers. My sons personal test scores are above average for reading and math. His teachers have been great. The only thing I can think of is the language barriers that hold this school back. But this rating doesn't hold this school back from being a great school. Many of these teachers have been working there for 20 plus years and love their job. Mrs boccalini is a kindergarten teacher and had all her children go to Berlyn and all her children are successful and one is even a linguist and speaks multiple languages. The Secretary Ms. Patty attended berlyn and all her children and grandchildren also attend. We love our little neighborhood school.
Submitted by parent on February 01, 2023

I love the teachers. They are very nice. However this school does not meet the requirements as students do not excel in passing state exams. Often they fall behind and it is questionable to me. I am currently enrolled in school and know the importance of having my children enrolled in a good school. Currently Berlyn elementary school rating by the state indicates 3/10 meaning students fall below average and pass their grades learning the least. If this was a junior college or even university they would fail. Our children are not learning and falling behind. Regardless how nice the teachers are but the fact does not change that children are either approaching grade level or need improvement. As soon as the waitlist opens up at another school with a 7/10 or 8/10 I will enroll them there. The problem is it is hard to get into these schools. All children deserve to attend good schools with high ratings as indicated by the state. I just wished Berlinger would focus on education and making sure students understand the material they are learning instead getting happy for obtaining an award for the best healthy dietary offered. Education and making progress is more important to me. As for diet, it is implemented statewide to dispense healthy snacks.
Submitted by parent on March 22, 2017

The rating on this website is low but i challenge anyone considering this school to give it a chance. This school is great! the Principal and the staff are always so helpful. I went to this school, my family members and now my children. I've had nothing but positive experiences here. The teachers and staff i have dealt with are very friendly and wanting to always stay in communication with parents. As a full time working parent, i always try my best to volunteer at the school and help out any way i can. We as parents need to be part of the school to model those great interactions we have with teachers.
Submitted by parent on September 02, 2015

I cannot lie when I first came and saw the school I was so nervous, I was not too happy about the area and the school is a little on the prison looking side but this school is amazing, the teachers the staff the principal we're all so amazing, I got to know the principle after a few incidents that I had with my child nothing bad, she always took care of me very well, and never made me feel like I was a bother to her always made me feel that she always had time, for any one , Thank u for an amazing 6grade year, and thank u Ms.cook for being an amazing teacher, ms. Patty in the office your are undescribable, I have dealt with many office people no one like you and miss Sylvia thank you so much Berlin for being an amazing school
Submitted by parent on May 12, 2015

My son went here because his home school was full. I was very skeptical about Berlyn, since it's rated low and his home school is rated one of the best in the district. BUT I had no choice. It's almost the end of the year and I am beyond happy he attended. The principle is great and her team is too. I will continue to support Berlyn because it is a GREAT school with people that truly care and want to make a difference. I really hope they get more support from our community and our city.
Submitted by parent on February 14, 2014

My children attended this school and they miss their teachers so much and so do I... The teachers always had time to hear any concerns I had regarding my children all 3 teachers were great... and so was all the staff... we love berlyn
Submitted by parent on July 21, 2013

I absolutely love this school! My kids have attended 3 elementary schools since kindergarten & this is by far the best school they have been to. My oldest child was chosen to go to Edison elementary school for the gate program & I was horrified with their teachers & staff!!! I never would have allowed my child to attend the other elementary if I had known what was in store for her there. Berlyn except for a choice few has by far a better teaching & office staff then most schools. They are supportive, careing, and wonderful motivators. Berlyn elementary is in my oppion the best elementary school in this area.
Submitted by parent on December 11, 2012

My daughter came here for 2 years then got accepted to a local "magnet" school. We haven't even finished the 1st year with the new school and my daughter really misses the teachers, kids among a list of other things. I would have never changed schools for her if I would have known we would go from a 5 star rating (Berlyn) to a 1 star rating.