5375 Sidesaddle Dr
Jacksonville, FL 32257

Mandarin Oaks Elementary has truly redefined what it means to be a school community dedicated to the holistic success of every student. We transitioned to Mandarin Oaks in the final quarter of the academic year after years of false promises from a nearby charter school, and in hindsight, I only wish we had made this move much sooner.From the very first interaction, Principal Ms. Butterfield demonstrated an exceptional level of leadership and vision. She personally welcomed us to the school, provided an informative tour of the campus, and thoroughly outlined the robust support services available to ensure every student thrives. Her approach was marked by both warmth and strategic insight—qualities that set the tone for the entire school culture.Every member of the staff consistently exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and dedication. Teachers and support staff alike go above and beyond to ensure that each child is seen, heard, and valued for who they are—not just what’s on paper. Their proactive communication, unwavering support, and genuine care for student growth have been a breath of fresh air.Mandarin Oaks truly exemplifies what an exceptional elementary school should be: a nurturing, engaging, and deeply student-centered environment. I highly recommend this school to any family seeking an environment that combines academic excellence with genuine care and support. I can say with complete confidence that Mandarin Oaks is a place where every child is championed, and I only wish we had made the transition sooner.

I subbed here and it was by far the worst school I have ever encountered. Students made inappropriate comments about me and were not respectful toward me, others and themselves. Many students cursed each other out, hit each other and were on their phones despite the no phone law. Some students talked about how they were in a gang and others talked about how they were planning to fight someone. Some also spoke about engaging in inappropriate, underage activities. I would never come back to this school.

This school mistakes punishment for discipline and control for care.I watched capable students deteriorate after being mislabeled, publicly searched, embarrassed, and blamed instead of supported. I entered as a high-performing student and left feeling broken, unheard, and mistrusted. Seeking help only resulted in increased scrutiny and harsher treatment.Staff are overwhelmed and unprepared, and it shows. Rather than de-escalation or understanding, students are met with passive aggression, gossip, and selective enforcement of rules. The result is an environment that retraumatizes students while pretending to rehabilitate them.This school does not fix problems it creates them.