Smithfield Elementary

Our son is just about to complete the 2nd grade here at McAlpine. He has been at McAlpine since Kindergarten, so this is the end of our third year. Our son is doing very well in school. There is a friendly family atmosphere to the school where the staff and students seem to get on like a well oiled machine. The feedback loop has been strong with all 3 teachers we have had. They genuinely care and meet our child where he is, while also pushing him to be his best self. I do not get complaints from my child about name-calling, bullying, or other rude behaviors like happens at some of the other programs he attends (which are also well established programs)...I attribute this to the culture of this close knit school. The PTO goes above and beyond and coordinates fun fundraising events to help provide additional resources to the school. From the McAlpine Mile, to the Spring Fling, and more, there is a lot of cool tradition at the school. It is also limited in size because of the soccer fields out back and therefore will never have any trailers. The students are diverse and everyone is accepted. I've spent time volunteering in the classroom, at school events, and other places so I think I actually know the kids pretty well...and again, it's just such a warm environment. We wouldn't change a thing. We are very proud Eagles!

I went there and it was terrible. I had to transfer to Elon Park a much better school

It is true that there are only a dozen students in each grade of high school; however, this provides excellent visibility for each student. This also helps students across grades get to know each other and make friends. My child joined BISC after middle school and was very timid in new environments then. 'Leadership' was not in her vocabulary. The teachers have been very responsible and patient, helping her build confidence in class. Now in the last year of high school, she has become the leader of a club she founded at school, and she is no longer afraid to give public speeches, and she has grasped excellent writing and organizing skills. All of this has been really helpful in her college applications. And she was admitted by her dream college. Overall, I am very thankful to the teachers and friends at this school.

Stay away, you will regret sending your child there. The caliber of the elementary teachers is poor and your children will suffer the consequences.

I was very badly treated by staff and students. I left traumatized.