<p>Harker is a private school for children of captains of industry in Silicon Valley (or those who think they are). For those who require the supposed very best (facilities, whatever); IMO someone who must stay in a 5 star hotel when they travel, for example.
It is exclusive in nature, may not reflect “real life.” Sooner or later, your kid is going to be exposed to, and have to deal with, real life. Be a self-starter.
That said, opportunities and support there will benefit the kid who is oriented towards the national contests.
While I have knowledge and experience with both private and public schools, and realize there are advantages and disadvantages with each type of school as well as each indivodual school out there, be advised there are a number of excellent public elementary and high schools in Silicon Valley. Yes, there are schools with very high competition, if that is what your are seeking.
MIDDLE SCHOOL is where the issues are (teaching quality/turnover/ peer behavior and so on)</p>