Hartstern Elementary School

My 2 daughters have been homeschooled since the pandemic. This past year was their first time experiencing the public school setting. They were both in second grade, but different classrooms, and they blossomed academically, socially, and mentally. They both recieved awards that boosted their self esteem. I feel like Okalona is a smaller school setting which in return allows the teachers to build a closer relationship with the students, also allowing more one on one time for teachers to work closely with students in a whatever various way that connects with the students. I am so happy that my children was able to attend Okalona Elemtary and I plan on them continueing their education there until they graduate to middle school. I would most definitely recommend Okalona Elemtentary. Mr. Hondadel is a wonderful, hands on, involved, caring teacher. He teaches in ways that makds it fun to learn which leaves an imprint on children. For example, they incubated and hatched duck eggs, they got to experience it all first hand in the classroom! Super cool. He will leave a lasting impression on my daughter throughout her school years and maybe even adult hood.

I think all grades levels should have art and science classes. my daughter in first grade she very talented in drawing. give School needs to challenge the students. I like that Smyrna and Parkland Floyd Fork came together and offers summer camp for the children to learned about outdoor adventures hiking and creek about insects. for free keep the children busy and learning as well. summer 3 months students are forgetting what they learned in school. daycare don't work with children in summer keep them focus on education. I love the fact they offer programs like this.

my child has had nothing but horrible experiences since coming here four years ago. There was ONE teacher the entire time that we felt truly cared, the others either did not care or were not around enough to make a difference. Teachers, staff, and the principal did not care to listen to our concerns or take our suggestions into consideration. We were told we were wrong, and that our child was at fault. We tried to switch classes, and get additional support and were told 'no'. Quick to single kids out with no support system or plan in place to help.

One question before sending your child to this school. Will your child be watched over and cared for? Will he be taught spiritual? Will he be taught to treat others with respect? I would be concerned about the ethics being taught at the school.

We were incredibly disheartened with our experience at Whitefield. We highly recommend other parents consider other alternatives for Christian/Faith based education