Palm Tree Academy

Very good school. My son studied there from 1st to 5th grade. English is not his first language and they were great in introducing English to him. He had tutoring every day and I think that was decisive for his learning process. He was also placed in the dual-language program and learned Spanish as well which was a plus. Now, he is the only one in my family that speaks fluently three languages.

This year will be my daughter's 3rd year here and I am very comfortable and happy with this school. Teachers communicate effectively with me and show a genuine interest in my child. Administration is deeply involved and doesn't depend on delegating completely to others. I have a lot of confidence in this school and look forward to more years here for my baby.

We have really enjoyed our year at Rivera. My son is excited about school and enjoys his classmates and teachers. I appreciate that it is a smaller school and the staff seems to know all the students. I was sad when they had a few kids transfer out the second week and they went from two kinders of 15 kids each to one kinder class of 25, I know it is a public school and they have to use resources in the best way but bummed that it went from such a small class to such a large one in a matter of days. The crosswalk guards, the cafeteria and recess monitors all know our sons name and take the time to say hi to him and all the students as they arrive at school. They all seem to be so cheerful and it really begins his day on a high note being welcomed to the school like that. I will say we have had no special attention or needs and I am not sure if those things are handled well or not here, I have heard mixed reviews from friends who have needed special services. I do love that it has a small school feel and helpful staff. The things I am disappointed about (Side bar if we were not moving this summer I would get more involved and I did attempt to join the PTA but after the first virtual meeting I never heard anything additional) I am sad that we haven't had one fieldtrip, one class party where I could participate or come in to be a room mom, no field day, no muffins with mom, no parents involved dances (these are things I have seen at other elementary schools in EPISD). I am sure these are things that are so dependent on volunteers and I know the lady who is running the PTA just started to organize this year so hopefully that will change but I was def. jealous and bummed that I felt like I didn't have anyway to participate in the school activities and or the lack of them. Overall I would still have picked this school. We are in walking distance, and I loved walking him to and from school each day and my close proximity for when he has been sick etc. I do still think he has learned SO much and appreciate the school staff that pours into him each day.

My kids love this school! Very culturally friendly and caring community.