Bear Branch Elementary School

About Bear Branch Elementary

Bear Branch Elementary School has served as an educational cornerstone in our community since 1987. Located in the beautiful Mill Valley district, our school provides a nurturing environment where students from kindergarten through fifth grade thrive academically and socially. Named after the historic Bear Branch Creek that flows through our property, our school embraces nature and environmental awareness as integral parts of our educational mission.

Our campus features modern classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art educational technology, a well-stocked library, dedicated science and art labs, a spacious gymnasium, and beautiful outdoor learning spaces that include gardens, playgrounds, and nature trails. These facilities support our commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience that engages students in hands-on learning opportunities.

Bear Branch Elementary consistently ranks among the highest achieving elementary schools in our district, receiving recognition for academic excellence, innovative programs, and community involvement. We measure success not only by test scores but by the character development and growth of our students as compassionate, thoughtful citizens prepared to make positive contributions to their communities.

Our Mission

At Bear Branch Elementary, our mission is to create a supportive and inclusive learning community that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and character development. We challenge every student to reach their full potential while cultivating a lifelong love of learning and respect for all individuals.

Core Values

Our educational philosophy is built upon the following core values:

• Excellence: Setting high standards and supporting every student in achieving their personal best
• Character: Developing integrity, responsibility, empathy, and respect in all students
• Innovation: Embracing creative approaches to teaching and learning
• Community: Building strong partnerships among students, families, staff, and the broader community
• Stewardship: Teaching environmental responsibility and care for our world

Academic Programs

Student Life & Activities

At Bear Branch Elementary, learning extends beyond the classroom. Our diverse extracurricular programs allow students to develop new skills, explore interests, build friendships, and create lasting memories.

Student Organizations

• Student Council: Elected representatives develop leadership skills while organizing spirit days, service projects, and school improvements
• Coding Club: Students learn programming fundamentals through game design, robotic challenges, and collaborative projects
• Garden Club: Young gardeners maintain our school gardens, learn about nutrition, and grow vegetables for our cafeteria
• Eco-Warriors: Students lead recycling initiatives, energy conservation campaigns, and environmental awareness projects
• Reading Bears: A peer tutoring program where older students support younger readers
• Art Club: Budding artists explore various media, create projects, and help beautify our campus

Physical Activities & Sports

• Running Club: Students train together and participate in local 5K races and district competitions
• Intramural Sports: After-school programs in basketball, soccer, and volleyball focus on skill development and teamwork
• Jump Rope Team: Students practice coordination through rope jumping routines and perform at school assemblies
• M mindfulness and Movement: Activities promoting wellness, stress management, and physical health

Annual Events

• Back to School Night: Families meet teachers and learn about the year ahead
• Fall Festival: Community celebration with games, activities, and seasonal fun
• Winter Concert: Musical performances by our band, choir, and strings programs
• Science Fair: Students showcase scientific inquiry and experimentation
• International Night: Celebration of our community's cultural diversity
• Spring Musical: Students perform a full-scale theatrical production
• Field Day: Year-end outdoor activities promoting teamwork and physical fitness

Our Faculty & Leadership

From the Principal's Desk

Welcome to Bear Branch Elementary! I am honored to serve as principal of this exceptional learning community. Our dedicated team of educators brings together decades of combined experience, passion for teaching, and commitment to student success. Every day, our teachers go above and beyond to create engaging lessons, build meaningful relationships with students, and foster a positive school culture.

At Bear Branch, we believe in educating the whole child. Academic excellence is our foundation, but we equally prioritize social-emotional development, character education, and physical well-being. Our teachers participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices and innovative instructional approaches. Many hold advanced degrees and specialized certifications that enrich their teaching and benefit our students.

We value strong partnerships with families and invite you to become actively involved in our school community. Research consistently shows that engaged parents lead to higher student achievement, and we offer numerous opportunities for you to connect with our school. Together, we can ensure every child reaches their full potential.

I encourage you to visit our school, volunteer in our classrooms, and join us at school events. When families and schools work together as partners, amazing things happen for children!

Dr. Rebecca Martinez, Principal

Awards & Recognition

• 2022 California Distinguished School Award
• 2021 National Blue Ribbon School Nominee
• 2020 State Green School Certification
• 2019 District Elementary STEM Program Excellence Award
• 2018 Community Partnership Recognition

Community & Family Involvement

Bear Branch Elementary flourishes because of the tremendous support from our families and community partners. We offer a variety of ways for parents and community members to engage with our school and contribute to our students' success.

Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)

Our active PTO plays a vital role in enhancing educational opportunities for all students. Through fundraising efforts, volunteer coordination, and special events, the PTO provides financial support for classroom materials, technology purchases, field trips, and enrichment programs. Monthly PTO meetings provide opportunities for parents to stay informed, offer input, and get involved.

Volunteer Opportunities

Parents and community members can make a difference by volunteering in our classrooms, chaperoning field trips, assisting with school events, or participating in our reading and tutoring programs. Our volunteer coordinator works to match individual interests with current school needs.

Community Partnerships

Bear Branch Elementary benefits from strong relationships with local businesses, organizations, and institutions:

• Mill Valley Public Library: Reading programs, library cards, and resource support
• State University Education Department: Student teacher placements and research collaborations
• Local Science Center: Hands-on science workshops and demonstration events
• Senior Center: Intergenerational learning activities and reading buddies program
• Regional Arts Council: Artist-in-residence programs and arts education initiatives

Contact Information

Campus Tours

We welcome prospective families to tour our beautiful campus and see our outstanding programs in action. Tours are available on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 9:00 AM from October through May. Please call our office to schedule a visit.