David Hicks School

During the time my children attended the school as toddlers and preschoolers, I loved the school, and they thrived. Because of the Montessori philosophy of education, they learned many self-help skills that allowed them to be more independent.When my children became elementary school students, I noticed a sharp decline in their academics. At first, I had hope that the multi-aged classrooms would give my children the chance to work at their current level and advance as they needed. After seeing little progress, I pulled them out. My lower elementary student (1-3) didn't recognize a lower case "g". My upper elementary student (4-6) barely knew math multiplication facts and could barely write a paragraph. After testing, I discovered they were 6 months to a year behind in multiple academic areas. They are now in public school and receiving services in order to catch up.Waste of money. Waste of time. The toddler and preschool programs are great, but stop after preschool and go somewhere for a quality education.

So far, I couldn't be happier. Emma, my granddaughter just lights up each morning knowing she is getting ready to go to school. She talks about her teachers and what she is going to 'show' them (example: she had a boo boo). Also, she has made so many new friends and so enjoys her time there with her new friends and new teachers. She had never attended any type of pre-school prior to this and again, I could not be happier with these teachers and the joy I see in her. Oh, btw: She has not had any 'homework' but she brings homes beautiful projects she has completed at school.

We will not be returning to Tipton next year, after how far the school has fallen. It’s a wonder the Romine Group hasn’t shuttered the school already.