Hopewell Elementary School

Our family has been lucky enough to send our kids to Hopewell Elementary School before, during, and after covid. This school has provided a safe and encouraging space for our kids to learn and grow. The school continues to provide an excellent sense of community and engagement with the families. Just like any school you will ever go to, of course, there are hurdles and headwinds you will face whether it be with academic, emotional, social interactions among others however, the school and its staff are very welcoming and happy to work with you.

I actually went to this school for elementary school. I really wanted to review not only because I loved this school so much (I have so many fun memories, I was captain of school safety in 5th grade, field day etc.) but because I saw reviews about teachers only being there during the school day and I wanted to put that in context. Until about June 1st, 2019, our teachers (I say our because I am graduating high school this year) had no contract. One of the ways for them to protest that was the least harmful to students was arriving and leaving exactly what the contract stated. This is because the school was not going to pay them for extra time (due to an expired contract) and the teachers were asking for a well-deserved raise. If you are considering moving to this area, I highly recommend Hopewell Elementary School. Hopewell is super environmentally conscious, the principal lives in Hopewell and sends his kids to the school, and I have learned so much from my time there.

Neutral at best. Teacher was a total turn-off. She had a poor attitude and made minimal effort with struggling children. Didn't appreciate her playing favorites. Also, she had limited availability. Arrived as school day was starting and left immediately after school ended. Never seemed to have time to respond to parent questions and concerns. Administration so-so. Didn't address parent concerns about several incidents in the classroom and instead sided with the teacher. Heard later that we weren't the only ones having issues with this teacher. Felt Principal should have investigated classroom situation more throughly.

Although I graduated from Hopewell Elementary School a few years ago, I have many amazing memories that I made there. The environment is so nurturing and kind. Kids are really encouraged to think creatively, work hard, and be inspired. The curriculum allows students to gain knowledge creatively such as through their culture or art days. Students also develop a musical understanding and appreciation through the various classes offered. Don't know any student who didn't love Hopewell!

I am quite surprised by the previous review as I have found the principal quite open to parent concerns and addresses them in a timely manner. He is extremely approachable and receptive to concerns. Unlike the previous reviewer obviously has, I don't have inside information and can only go on my experiences to date...Having just moved to NJ and this district, I find HES a terrific school and it has helped to provide my son with a seamless transition at an age where a move could have proved quite difficult. His teacher has been absolutely amazing and he has enjoyed this school year so much that he doesn't miss his old school at all. Obviously I can only speak for the teachers my son has come in contact with during one year only, but he enjoys school and doesn't ask to stay home like he used to...Parent involvement in the school is also fantastic. The PTO has a large membership and has never felt cliquish. Becoming involved has really helped to build the community feeling and is a great way to get to know other parents...As a former teacher, I have set ideas about what I look for in a school and HES definitely meets those expectations.