Lake Valley Dr, Raleigh, NC

I’ve had kids at PUE from 2018 to the present, and wholeheartedly recommend it. The teachers really care about the students, and the students feel it – it’s not uncommon to see kids hugging teachers from prior years in the hallways. The teachers tend to stay for many, many years, which sends a message about this being a happy, supportive place to come to work. The principal (Mr. Tunstall) is a visionary and strong leader – since he arrived two years ago, I have seen changes in academics (more differentiated instruction in core subjects), facilities (updates and improvements), and an investment in staff professional development and morale (via conference attendance, teacher of the year recognition, and wellness & appreciation programs). He encourages his staff to participate in community building events like Spirit Nights and other PTA fundraisers, and he collaborates effectively with the PTA to ensure resources are wisely spent to maximize benefit at the school. And Mr. T even allowed himself to be dunked in green slime for the students’ enjoyment to close out the annual Fun Run!The parents are very supportive of the PTA, which is highly organized and draws on leaders’ specific expertise to make sure all students have a well-rounded experience and staff members feel appreciated. The PTA funds things for students like cultural arts programming, social-emotional resources and online subscriptions, field trip scholarships, and enrichment programs like Odyssey of the Mind, Scripps National Spelling Bee, Science Fair, First in Fitness, chorus, and safety patrol. In the past two years, the PTA has allocated $10,000 to revamp the library’s book collection, and bought water bottle refilling stations, and basketball hoops for the gym. The PTA supports teachers with annual classroom supply stipends, funds for professional development, and frequent appreciation events. The PTA also organizes annual programs like the Boosterthon Fun Run and the Scholastic Book Fair, and monthly spirit events. All around, this is a great community to be part of!