Dodson Elementary School

I absolutely love this school. We had one child who completed her education at a neighboring district and so I was unprepared for how amazing Bentley would end up being. I didn't know you could have staff And administrators who actually cared so much. The principal and vice principal have been so welcoming and clearly care so much about the students and the wellbeing of everyone who sets foot through these doors.

Best school in the neighborhood. Teachers and principal really love what they do.

Concerns Regarding Academic Rigor and Parental Engagement at Gallimore ElementaryWhile Gallimore Elementary prides itself on its high ranking within Michigan, there is a significant disconnect between the school’s reputation and the actual educational value provided. Because admission is based solely on CogAT scores, the student body consists of naturally gifted children. However, the current curriculum feels average—if not below average—and fails to challenge these bright minds. The academic success attributed to the school appears to be driven primarily by intensive parental support rather than the school’s internal systems.Student Experience and Preparedness:While elementary school should allow for play, it must also serve as a foundation for discipline. Currently, there is a lack of emphasis on time management and homework habits. Most teachers do not assign consistent work, leaving students unprepared for the heavy workload they will inevitably face in middle school. Without being taught how to plan and study independently now, even the most brilliant students risk falling behind later.Communication and Resources:As parents, we are often left in the dark. Aside from Mathematics, there are no textbooks or structured syllabi provided, making it nearly impossible for us to reinforce what is being taught in the classroom. Relying on daily classwork papers is insufficient for meaningful home-school alignment.Conclusion:The school’s "Number One" status is a reflection of its selective intake and the dedication of the parents, not the quality of the instruction. For the school to truly live up to its ranking, it must take more responsibility for the academic development of its students rather than leaving their success entirely to the mercy of home intervention.

We have had children at All Saints for over 10 years, but the school has rapidly declined in recent years. As teaching positions were vacated, amazing teachers were replaced with parents who favor their own children and other teachers' children, creating a clear conflict of interest that impacts the entire grade. The school's motto of mind, body, and discipline is no longer upheld, and the emotional wellbeing of students is not a priority. Students who struggle and need extra help do not receive it, and it seems as though teachers want them to fail so they leave and they don’t have to deal with them. Several families have left the school and even more are looking to transfer out. If your child is a perfect A student who doesn't need assistance, they can get by, but they won't receive help if they need it. If you have an academically gifted child, they will not be challenged. The former 4th, 5th, and 6th grade teachers were amazing, but the current 5th and 6th grade teachers are the worst. They are mean to students, rude, and do not communicate with parents. Two teachers for these grades teach their own daughters and favor their friends, allowing them to sit by friends and talk, while boys who do the same are punished. The teachers also favor the children of parents they have befriended. Junior high teachers used to be phenomenal, but many have moved on to other schools. Only a handful truly care about creating a positive environment for students to learn and grow. If you have already committed to the 2025-2026 school year, lose your deposit – you won't regret it.