Balsz School

Balsz is an excellent school with highly dedicated staff and administration. As a parent I appreciate the concern the staff has for my students and know that they have the best interests of students and families in mind. We love the extended year because my children can have a safe secure learning environment for an additional 4 weeks which is a blessing for hard working parents.

On the surface, Balsz appears to be doing what's best for students. However, in the classroom this is not the case. The administration doesn't tolerate differentiating instruction. They want every teacher to do the same thing. There is no support or consistency with staff members. Administration has changed frequently with teachers. Class sizes are in the higher 30's. The new administration is pushing quality teachers who stand by for their students. They are only going for high test scores.

Ever since the Dr. Smith has taken the district over, Balsz has gone down hill. He pushed out the previous principal and the new leadership has changed the dynamics of the entire school negatively. The moral of the staff is down, experienced, effective teachers are leaving in droves. The superintendent has taken SEVERAL raises when teachers have not in 6 years. The district office has multiple staff who make decisions without knowing what is happening in the classrooms. The professional development is a one fit wonder, meaning no matter your needs, you have to go to the same training as everyone else. Teachers get written up for trying to have a voice within the district. Most of the class sizes are over 30, including 5th grade which is over 35. Behavior is not dealt with at all. Teachers are responsible for handling most problems. We are told "find a buddy to help you". Students who cuss, hit and bully students and teachers are usually right back in the classroom within the same day. For teachers and students working 200 days is not worth it. The district is doing nothing to keep highly effective staff. The majority of the school's teachers are now first year teachers.

Mrs.Bengochea is the best principal for the job as a former student there is nobody who can hold a candle to how amazing of a principal she truly is she cares about the students more than just the paycheck i advise all parents to send their kids to balsz school