Shadowbrook

We are so incredibly pleased with this school. Our family has seen significant academic growth in our children since moving here. Most importantly our children tell us they feel cared for and happy going to this school. The administration is highly involved and gets to know students and families personally.

I didn't receive much communication about my son's behavior throughout the school year and unfortunately the last month of school is when it was finally communicated that he was having issues. At that point there was no way to modify the 504 plan he had in place. The communication was so poor throughout the school year. When I asked about homework at the beginning of the year I was met with no response. I should've seen that as a red flag but thought maybe he was completing it at school. Even during the last month of school when my son was reported to have choked a classmate I was not called to pick him up from school. I received the report a week later. Because of the lack of communication, it really does have me question whether any of these events actually happened. If so, why was I, as the parent, not called immediately? I received one phone call throughout the school year, so I know they had the right number on file. The call was regarding my son pushing a classmate. When I received the letter stating he wouldn't be allowed back there were multiple incidences (varying levels from crying to the choking). At minimum I should've received the number of calls that matched the incidences. Receiving one call is unacceptable. Be aware that the kindergarten teachers are the hooks but once your child is in the program for the next year, the lack of communication could be a barrier to your child's education being excellent if the teacher is not invested in your child. The only reason I did not rate this school lower is because of the Assistant principal and the kindergarten teacher from the previous year. I would say this school did a great job with my son's adhd the first year, but this past year was a complete disappointment.

Besides one I didn't care for last year, all the teachers have been wonderful. The staff clearly care about the kids and I see that every day in the hallways during pick up and drop off. They greet the kids by name often and keep it positive. Public school can be a nightmare, but this one clearly is not - I'm staying in this neighborhood just to keep sending my child here. I don't relate to some of the other recent reviews posted here. I think they go above and beyond for the kids.

This school is the worst school I’ve ever been to in perspective I’ve went to a school in south philly

We have been at this school for two years. We have two children attending. I have found the entire staff from the front office, to of course the teachers, friendly and engaging. I think the community is amazing as well and the opportunity to engage with the school or other parents wonderful. I have found the leadership to be solid and hear the teachers praise it as well. I feel really lucky to be a part of this community and see my kids fall in love with learning. And it is not from the point of view where everything was always smooth- both of our kids had some bumps at times with various elements from some school anxiety to reading skills. The school responded beautifully. My experience is that this is a tremendous place with wonderful people and I’m glad our family has gotten to be a part of it.

My child has been at Joe Lee Johnson for a few years now. When we started, the school was struggling, but under new leadership, it's really turned around. We've had excellent teachers and my child is a super reader! The campus itself is gorgeous and well-maintained and the kids love the playgrounds. The PTA is SUPERB, very active, and incredibly involved. I encourage you to join if you enroll at JLJ. Principal Dean is very transparent about the changes and the work being done to turn this school around and the teachers have been working incredibly hard to ensure all students get the attention they need.