9237 Barker Rd
New Hill, NC 27562

We had multiple children here with different needs and varying levels of academic ability and they all achieved our goals for them. The teachers, principal and support staff are all accessible and supportive. Highly recommend!

Daughter was sexually assaulted, told by another student he was going to shoot her, called a slave in social studies in front of a teacher, warned that ICE was coming for her- none of the students responsible were ever punished. Administration unwilling to identify opportunities for acceleration or learning beyond the basics. Funding and staffing for vocational programs prioritized over academics.

Our family’s experience with the IEP process at Apex Friendship Elementary School was extremely disappointing and heartbreaking. My child has documented developmental and academic challenges, yet after going through the evaluation and IEP process, the school ultimately denied all special education services and support.As a parent, it was incredibly painful to watch my child struggle while feeling repeatedly dismissed throughout the process. Instead of feeling supported, I often felt like I had to constantly fight to have my concerns taken seriously. Communication was inconsistent, meetings felt procedural rather than compassionate, and the process seemed more focused on finding reasons to deny services than understanding my child’s actual needs.Despite clear concerns involving academics, development, and classroom functioning, the school concluded that my child did not qualify for support. This decision left our family shocked, discouraged, and emotionally exhausted. For parents going through the IEP process for the first time, it can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially when the school system appears resistant to providing help.I understand schools must follow eligibility guidelines, but families also deserve transparency, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting children who are struggling. Unfortunately, our experience at Apex Friendship Elementary did not feel collaborative or child-centered.I hope the school and district improve how they work with families of children with disabilities and place greater emphasis on listening to parents and supporting students before they fall further behind.