SUMMIT Plan in Sheppard Mill by D.R. Horton
Glen Allen, VA 23059

I am the parent of an 8th grade student and she has attended Hungary Creek for all 3 years of middle school. I have volunteered and spent time at the school over the last few years and in general, have had a positive experience. The school administration and majority of teachers are dedicated and trying their best to provide a good environment. There are some exceptional teachers (Mrs. Bernard, Mrs. Howe, Mrs. Abielmona, Mr. Manning) who are gifted at teaching and working with this age group. I have seen them invest a lot of time and energy into the students! There are also some teachers who just provide the most basic instruction and worksheets, and are less than inspiring. Like most things, the students get out way they put in. The biggest issue I have witnessed, or my child has told me about, include: disrespectful students who monopolize 90% of the teacher's time and energy which leaves very little for anyone else, teaching strictly to the SOL test rather than actually engaging in discussions, some physical fights, and the overuse of boring online programs that do not seem to actually advance a student's understanding of the material. There is also a large socio-economic diversity with over 40% low income students vs some students in extremely high income households. The Principal is new as of last year and seems to be involved and making an effort to motivate the staff.There are plenty of opportunities for parent involvement from the PTA and like most schools, there are the same people who volunteer frequently and some who do nothing. The PTA hosts several events for the kids and nearly everything is free to participate. If parents are involved, there is no reason a student cannot be successful at this school and maybe even enjoy their experience.

As someone who went through Henrico County schools as a child I was blown away by GAES. The teachers are enthusiastic, friendly, knowledgeable and skilled at what they do. Every time I visit I’m struck by the fact that every staff member seems to know every child by name and the rapport between teachers and students is amazing. It’s almost like a private school within the public education system. I am thrilled that my children are attending GAES.

There are many great teachers. However, there is an absolutely horrible help desk. Extremely rude tone.