Hidden Branches

I was trying to get information about the school for my son and the front desk. A lady she was rude and was short and hung up in my face like my questions didn't matter. If that is the attitude of the staff, I am curious how they treat student there off this one phone call.

Vanderlyn is one of the best, if not THE best elementary school in Georgia. We moved from Vanderlyn to a “top preforming” school district and the difference is palpable. Principal Crenshaw is absolutely incredible, as was my child’s teacher. The entire staff is truly devoted to educating your child. My child made great gains at this school and we miss it dearly. The school really minimized instruction interruptions, and I was grateful for that from a safety perspective. Consider yourself lucky if your child is able to attend Vanderlyn.

This is, without question, one of the worst schools I have ever encountered. I am a mother of two, with my oldest child graduating from college soon, and I have never experienced such gross negligence, lack of accountability, and disregard for a child’s well-being.My younger son is on the autism spectrum—Level 2 for social communication and Level 3 for repetitive behaviors. He struggles with sensory overload, large crowds, and social interaction, yet he is an exceptionally bright, kind, and academically gifted child. Despite his clearly documented needs, this school repeatedly failed him at every level.From the start, there was significant resistance and pushback regarding his evaluation, even though a private evaluation had already been completed. Teachers, administrators, and staff directly responsible for my son showed a dismissive, unconcerned attitude toward his challenges and needs. It was evident that supporting a neurodivergent child was viewed as an inconvenience rather than a responsibility.My son was bullied at this school. He came home with visible scratches on his hands and face caused by another student. He was targeted in the cafeteria, mocked, and had his lunch knocked out of his hands. These incidents were either minimized or inadequately addressed, leaving my child unsafe and unprotected in what should have been a nurturing environment.When it became clear that my son was not receiving appropriate services or protection, I hired an educational advocate. Instead of correcting their failures, the school became increasingly resistant once they were held accountable by someone knowledgeable about the system. My son continued to be denied necessary supports and accommodations.As a result of these ongoing failures, I filed a formal complaint with the state. An investigation was conducted, and the school was found liable for multiple gaps and violations in their systems and services. Ultimately, I was forced to withdraw my son to protect his emotional, physical, and developmental well-being.I would never recommend this school to any family—especially those with children who have disabilities or require specialized support. The treatment my son received was unacceptable, inhumane, and deeply disturbing. This school failed not only my child, but its fundamental duty to care for and protect vulnerable students.

Unbelievably good experience. Lots of opportunities for children. Plenty of fun parent activities after school. Lots of positive reinforcement programs.

The Davis Academy has been an incredible part of our family's journey, instilling strong values and a deep connection to the Jewish faith in our daughters. We raised three strong-minded girls who graduated from this remarkable school, and we couldn't be more grateful for the profound impact it has had on their lives.The Davis Academy nurtures not only academic excellence but also the importance of community, tradition, and identity. The school's commitment to fostering these principles has helped shape our daughters into confident, compassionate, and thoughtful individuals who carry their Jewish values proudly into the world.We are forever thankful to The Davis Academy for the lasting foundation it has provided for our family.