Howard

My experience with this school, particularly under Principal Andy J. Pierre-Louis, was extremely negative. My son was in second grade, had ADHD and a 504 Plan. Although he had behavioral challenges, he had excellent grades, completed his assignments, and had no attendance or tardiness issues.My son was suspended several times, and during one situation, Principal Pierre-Louis even made a police report involving my second-grade child.At one point, Principal Pierre-Louis told me to complete an online county form that same day so my son could continue having his RBT at school. I followed his instructions. Two days later, I received an email stating that my son had been removed from the school because of his behavior. This was not what had been discussed with me.When I confronted him, he did not mention behavior. Instead, he said the address on file was outside the school's attendance zone. I had moved months earlier, yet nobody had asked for my current address. Later, around 4 p.m. on a Wednesday, I was told I had until 5 p.m. to provide multiple proofs of residence. I rushed home, gathered everything, and returned before closing. The documents proved my son did live within the school's attendance zone.During the RBT approval process, I was also repeatedly asked for documents I had already submitted. At meetings, the principal's secretary would tell me documents were missing. After I insisted, Principal Pierre-Louis himself would confirm they were actually there.The repeated obstacles, contradictory information, and extremely short deadlines made me feel as though barriers were constantly being placed in our way to push my child out.I also found Principal Pierre-Louis extremely rude and confrontational. At times, I felt he was practically yelling at me, and I felt intimidated and disrespected. Immigration-related comparisons or comments were also brought into conversations about my son's situation. My son and I were both born outside the U.S., and I found those references deeply inappropriate and intimidating. Throughout this experience, I personally felt discriminated against because of my race, ethnicity, and immigrant background.Thankfully, my son is now at another school where there is empathy, communication, and teamwork. His behavioral needs did not magically disappear. What changed was how those needs were approached, and the difference has been tremendous.

Howard Drive Elementary is an outstanding school with a caring and dedicated staff that truly puts students first. The teachers and administration work hard to create a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment where every child feels supported and encouraged to succeed.The school offers strong academic programs, wonderful extracurricular activities, and meaningful opportunities for students to grow socially and emotionally. Communication with families is excellent, and the sense of community throughout the school is truly special.Howard Drive Elementary goes above and beyond to celebrate student achievements and foster a positive school culture. It is clear that the staff is passionate about education and committed to helping every student reach their full potential. We are proud to be part of the Howard Drive Elementary family!

Excellent school! Caring teachers and staff. Truly, where everyone knows your name.

Seventeen years. That’s almost two decades of morning drop-offs, school events, friendships, lessons, growth, and memories that will stay with our family forever.All three of my children have been blessed to call this school home. Seeing where my older two are today is proof of the incredible foundation they received here.This school didn’t just educate my children,it shaped them. It taught them responsibility, kindness, confidence, and perseverance. The teachers truly care. The administration leads with heart. The staff goes above and beyond. Every child is known, supported, and encouraged to be their very best.For 17 years, this community has felt like family. It’s bittersweet knowing our final chapter here is approaching with my youngest in 8th grade. I will miss the familiar faces, the traditions, and the feeling of knowing my children were always in the best hands.We are beyond grateful for the impact this school has had on our lives. The lessons learned here will stay with my children forever and so will the love.