Southside Elementary School

My experience with Alta Vista has been incredibly frustrating, and my student’s experience has honestly been a nightmare — mostly because of constant issues with other students. While there are a few teachers who seem to genuinely care and do a good job, others — especially in 5th grade science and math — often come across as angry at everyone: students, parents, you name it. It doesn’t exactly create a positive learning environment.Discipline feels like a suggestion, not a system. The kids know there aren’t real consequences, and it shows. It’s nearly impossible to focus on learning or doing well academically when the classroom feels chaotic and the same behavioral issues keep happening over and over with no real change.Administration seems focused on one thing: test scores. But it’s hard to produce strong scores when the day-to-day classroom environment is so disruptive. From what I’ve seen and heard, a lot of the dysfunction starts at the top. Instead of addressing the constant distractions, the focus seems to stay on the numbers.If you’re looking for structure, accountability, and a calm place for your child to learn, I’d strongly suggest looking closely before enrolling.

Chose this school because my daughter is a former student and she really liked it. Applied through choice as this school is not in my district but I work close by. Apparently a truancy officer has to come verify your address if you are living with someone even after going through all of the trouble of getting an affidavit filled out and paying to have it notarized. The darn officer still hasn’t been to the house and school starts MONDAY. This is absolutely ridiculous. I apply for my son to attend a charter school and he was accepted and registered the same day without the extra nonsense.

Wonderful diverse school with multiple programs. The IB Diploma Program is particularly strong, with high-achieving students who take very challenging course loads. Expectations are high and kids are well prepared for college, many of whom go onto top-tier universities. Facilities are well maintained and administrators are approachable and want the best for the RHS community. Really impressed with many of the teachers and a high percentage have advanced degrees.

This is a really darling school physically. It depicts a stately Florida heritage with its older architecture and natural oak landscaping. I suppose if they were to repurpose this, then, it would be to sell the property, demolish the school building and cut these oaks down, therefore desecrating the concept of heritage and greening our schools.Despite enrollment, it begs the question: what is the real meaning of repurposing? Is it a Selby Garden scenario of self gain and this on behalf of community loss? I would think enrollment is only half the cost when it comes to repurposing. The other is the community, something SCSB should consider in depth The concept of repurposing should be understood in terms of both education and the environment, as well as in terms of community input.

I started with a very positive experience with this school. However, changes happened when the new principal, Ms. Jenkins took control. They failed to keep my son emotionally and educationally safe. Despite my advocacy and efforts, she dismissed my child and took away all my options of selecting another option. As a parent I was blindsided and as a mother, I was heartbroken from my son.My son's diagnosis was not a consideration once they were "over" it. Disappointed and outraged, but mostly confused.Be careful that your child has no special or specific needs with this school.

Great experience overall. Really nice small school. Very nice teachers. Lots of fresh air.