Walcott Intermediate School

My two children who are enrolled in Walcott Elementary started in kindergarten. One is now in 4th and the other is in 2nd grade. All of my children's teachers over the years have given my children individual attention and addressed any concerns with professionalism. Lots of ways to communicate with teachers including Remind and Class Dojo. I feel the teachers are engaged and prepared. They are not only teaching the "R's" but giving children tools to succeed in other areas of life. The PTA is active and organized, and doing great things like improving library materials, adding smart boards to classrooms, and improving the playground. Student to teacher ratios are lower than most other schools in the district, and children attend PE, Art, Music, and Library every week.The new principal, Mike Lawler has been a great addition so far to Walcott. He brings EXPERIENCE, knowledge, positivity, enthusiasm, and a can-do attitude.There is a sense of united purpose between the PTA and school staff. It is an environment of respect and trust, where the focus stays on the children and things get done. No bickering and in-fighting. As a parent of an 18 year old who attended several elementary schools, I can say this is rare!There are balanced opportunities here, with orchestra beginning at 4th grade, and outstanding music instruction in the Elementary and Junior high school level. They are just top notch. The talented and gifted program is also great. My children's TAG teacher this year has done an exceptional job of drawing out critical thinking and creative skills with student projects utilizing computer presentation software, and she has sent home optional hands-on projects to learn computer programming skills at home and arranged for field trips too.I am especially impressed by my son's 3rd and 4th grade teachers. His fourth grade class is team-taught by two teachers who are also staff mentors. They have done a fantastic job of integrating the the state requirements, but have broken out from "worksheet mode" and include critical and creative homework projects that require real world problem solving, such as building a raft and making a brochure, and writing weekly letters to mom and dad about their school experience.I feel that Walcott school is a champion school that is very much flying under the radar in the large Davenport Community School District.