511 Pinehurst Ave
Portland, TX 78374

GPHS is a fantastic school with a lot of tradition. The teachers go above and beyond to make sure the students are successful. Teachers each have their own internet page for the students to access at any time, to clarify assignments, download handouts, etc. The counselors get to know their students. The administration is extremely supportive of parents. And should the need arise, the superintendent is extremely accessible. While academically challenging, there are plenty of extra-curricular activities for the students to get involved with to enrich their high school experience.

Eastcliff Elementary urgently needs improvement in communication, organization, and staff training — especially in confrontation and de-escalation. The lack of structure is concerning, starting with the principal’s leadership and extending to the staff.Today, during drop-off, another parent cut me off in the designated safety lane, forcing me to slam on my brakes while driving barely 5 miles per hour. My daughter, who had just unbuckled to grab her backpack (as we were next in line for staff assistance), hit her head on the dashboard due to the sudden stop. This situation could have been avoided entirely if staff were effectively monitoring and intervening when unsafe driving occurs.When I got out to address the issue, the gym teacher on duty stood by silently, offering no acknowledgment or correction to the reckless driver. If staff are assigned to manage student and driver safety, they should be trained and empowered to enforce it — not just stand there.A school should be a place where parents trust that their children’s safety is prioritized, not where poor communication, lack of accountability, and untrained supervision put them at risk. Eastcliff Elementary needs serious attention to staff preparedness, principal involvement, and basic safety procedures before someone is seriously injured.