General John Nixon Elementary School

This school was once a positive and collaborative environment where children were supported by a stable, experienced staff—many of whom dedicated decades to the community. Over the past two years, significant leadership changes and staff turnover have resulted in a fundamental shift in the school’s culture.Collaboration between educators and parents has deteriorated, and the focus has moved away from learning toward an overly rigid disciplinary approach. The welcoming atmosphere that once defined the school is no longer present, staff morale appears low, and there is a clear sense of instability. As a result of these changes, we are now seriously considering alternative educational options for our children.

We’ve had children attend Willard Elementary for five years . This is a wonderful, warm environment that supports students in every way; social/emotional development and academics. They have an amazing reading progress team that will seek out areas of weakness and support students in small groups that may otherwise fall behind. I wish I could say they have the same setup for math services, but maybe one day in the future. The faculty and staff at Willard are wonderful (from front office to school counselors and specials teachers) and we feel very fortunate to have our children attend this school.

I love this school for so many reasons. The staff are warm, engaging and highly trained in AMI standards. They have huge outside play area. They have a full time Naturalist/teacher that weaves magic with all levels both in classroom and outside on adventures. The core teachers at toddler, primary and elementary are simply amazing and all are readily available expressing the best interest of their child. I feel their love and know they are creating the best environment for my child could have. My child comes home filled with wonder, excitement, discovery and self motivation every day connecting us more to AVMS school in simple and routine ways. Just love this place infinitely!