Bessemer Elementary School

My overall experience with this school has been extremely frustrating. It is difficult to have real meaningful conversations about issues because of the school's unwillingness to take responsibility and acknowledge the school is in decline. There is a lack of urgency to shift the school's culture and tackle its issues head on - which ultimately is detrimental to the education of the hundreds of children that roam its halls each day.

The teachers at HFHN are nice, but one or two aren't so nice. The students are expected to do everything as they say and to not question the teachers or defend themselves when unjustly treated because it would be considered back talking. Also boys and girls are not allowed to hug? I was not aware that when the opposite gender hug it is sexualized when they are just children. They over-sexualize almost everything, girls wearing skinny jeans because it will "distract the boys" they are not even allowed to paint their nails! They say to follow the dress code, but then I notice teachers with brightly painted nails, and more then 2 bracelts on each hands. If you are trying to teach the children to follow the dress code, might as well tell the teachers to also follow it because we wouldn't want to distract the students correct?

My son was born premature and had developmental delays in which he needed OT, PT and speech. Initially, some teachers suggested my son attend Gateway but I was reluctant due to what my service coordinator was advising me. After awhile, I went with my gut feeling and got him enrolled with the school. It was the best decision made for him. Since his enrollment, we noticed so much improvement. I found myself regretful for not starting him sooner because his time there was short due to the time the child ages out of the program if they are not severely in need of help. Nevertheless, the staff was pleasant, caring, patient, knowledgeable and there was always a sense of calmness in the building. We are forever grateful for the staff and facility and would highly recommend their services to families with children that could benefit.