Northwood Elementary School

Having the privilege to be apart of this environment of this school, it has the most dedicated teachers and parents that show support and compassion. The teaching team was collaborative, student-focused, and consistently went above and beyond to support one another and the school community. There are not enough words for the educators that are there.Unfortunately, despite the strength of the staff the work environment was undermined by unsafe leadership practices. These were apparent with the staffing changes and the way the staffing felt odd and uneasy in conversations. Everything suddenly needed to be approved or sent to admin. The administration, created a culture that at times felt chaotic and unsafe for both staffing and students. Concerns were certainly raised at a board level and dismissed or ignored. This is disheartening because with a transparent leadership this school could go back to being the amazing place that would be an outstanding place to be at for staffing and students.

I have raised 2 adults and currently have a child in this school. I can say with 100% certainty this is the worst school I have ever a encountered. The adults are the biggest bullies. Teachers harass and admonish children who do not play with the teacher's favorite students. Children are forced to play with violent children who consistently attack and threaten other kids, even against the parents wishes. Unruly children are allowed to control the classroom, teachers and other students, down to how other students play. The only saving grace is the principal, Vanessa, who actually cares about the students. Unfortunately, the teachers willfully and blatantly ignore her directives and continue pushing their own personal beliefs onto students, even if it strictly goes against the parent's wishes and upbringing style. The teachers should pay more attention to what's going on in their classrooms and gain control of the students, instead of trying to be their parents. They have lose kids and have the nerve to get defensive when called out on it. My child has some amazing friendships in this school and that is the only reason why they are still there. I would never recommend this school to anyone.

We are having an amazing experience at Shrine. We love the community and the teachers! Everyone is so caring. My child has learning disability and it's been amazing to watch her really become successful at Shrine.

St. Paul is a safe and kind place to learn and grow! They create disciples for life.