Tavelli Elementary School

Putnam is a gem! I've had two students at Putnam for eight years, collectively, and I cannot emphasize what a great school this is! With only 200 students, teachers and admin know every single student by name. They are committed to growth and consistency for each child. The principal and assistant principal are outside on the playground at recess and greeting students as they come in the building (and leave for home) every day. They have the highest academic growth in the entire district, but more importantly - they take nurturing little hearts very seriously. I can't sing their praises enough...we LOVE Putnam!

Harris Bilingual School's dual language approach does not work well to teach native English-speaking students to communicate in Spanish. From first grade through third grade, students focus mainly on their native language (English or Spanish) in two separate groups. Starting in fourth grade, there is an attempt to merge the two groups and increase the amount of Spanish instruction, however, at that point, native English-speaking students do not have the Spanish-language foundation necessary to understand the grade-level texts that continue to be used year after year. Students are not encouraged to make an effort when it comes to speaking in their non-native language. Teachers often translate texts into English to "help" students understand. This doesn't help students to step outside their comfort zone of their native language. Harris switches between English weeks and Spanish weeks, the goal being to speak the language of the week. However, there is very little Spanish spoken in either week by teachers - particularly to native English-speaking students.

We have been at Laurel elementary for 7 years now and cannot express in words how amazed we are by the compassion, professionalism and dedication every single staff member has.

Truly exceptional education with a Christ centered focus that inspires and uplifts students. Families are treasured at HCA. Students are educated. Leadership goes above and beyond. Lives are changed.