Pleasant Valley

We started this school with high hopes from some positive reviews. But our experience has not been the same. When we have had questions, our teacher answers them and is attentive. However, when I have inquired answers from principal or counselors, my concerns are dismissed and not acknowledged. Emails go unanswered. There is a very disruptive child in my daughters class. The librarian cancels library 3-4 times so that class does not get to go to library because of this child's behavior. They have a few teachers on staff that are working towards degrees but have not finished their bachelors yet which I think should not be allowed. In my opinion, there is a lack of leadership on this campus and GISD should be behooved to shake up this campus a bit. But they will not. So avoid due to administration and lack of leadership at the top.

Back Elementary has been a disappointing experience in many ways. The atmosphere is far from welcoming, primarily due to the principal's questionable leadership style. Rather than fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff, the principal often resorts to bullying tactics. This creates a culture of fear rather than encouragement, making it difficult for teachers to thrive and for students to feel safe and valued.The lack of communication and support from the administration is glaring. Instead of addressing concerns, the principal seems to dismiss them, which only adds to the frustration. It's disheartening to see how detrimental this leadership is to the school's morale and overall learning environment.

John W. Armstrong is the only elementary school where my children will attend. It is such an amazing place to be. It is our seconf family. This campus and community go above and beyond and keeps expectations high.

Wonderful school within the Garland independent school district.

This an amazing school. The student body is diverse, the parents are involved, and there is almost NO teacher turnover! This means you get teachers who are experienced and dedicated. The test data is high and students are given tons of educational experiences. Cox has been a great place for my children to go to school!

Watching my child grow and thrive at Harmony Science Academy- Garland has been such a rewarding experience. From the very beginning, the teachers and staff created a warm, supportive environment where my child felt safe, welcomed, and excited to learn. One of the highlights has been how the school nurtures curiosity—whether it’s through creative writing, interactive science lessons, or encouraging reading at every level.I’ve noticed real growth not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. My child has become more confident, expressive, and eager to explore new ideas. The positive communication between teachers and families has also made us feel truly involved in the learning journey. Overall, it’s been a wonderful foundation that’s helped shape a strong love of learning in our child.

I would give this school a -10000, meaning, do not ever choose this school to send your child. They take money from the parents but won't spend money on school supplies or enough food for the children. It's pretty sad when your child comes home from school everyday hungry and on top of that you know there is a problem when a child is asking another child if they can have the food they're not eating because they're still hungry. The place where you store your child's belongings is literally a taped up box put inside of a cubbie hole. The carpets are dirty and it smells like urine when you walk into the school. Curriculm should be followed but it is not. This place is more like a daycare rather than a school.