Orchard Knob Elementary School

Former teacher here - one of the worst teaching experiences of my life. Principal singles out teachers who have a back bone and bullies them to the verge of quitting. Absolutely zero encouragement in times of need, claims to be supportive but is very much the opposite. Student safety is also a concern. Contrary to what Baker will say, there are SO many behavior problems to the point it is affecting the other students. Fights almost weekly, bullying, classroom disruptions, etc.. In my time being there we had multiple gun threats from students and they were allowed back to school within a day or two and nothing was done long term. Overall I would NEVER send my own child to this school or ever recommend working there. Considering this past year she had to restaff almost the entire building, it should speak volumes to the administration and how the school is being run. 0/10 do not recommend!!!

I have had both of my children attend The Montessori School. They have two different learning styles and personalities; however, The Montessori Method has been extremely beneficial for them both. The staff is amazing. The HOS has had over 20 years of leadership experience in education. She came from a charter school environment and while transitioning to a Montessori environment was an adjustment, it has become a way of life for her over the years. She puts the students first and she makes it a priority to provide encouragement and support to the staff. The students are able to learn at their own pace, there is a prepared environment that provides multiple modalities of learning, and the staff is dedicated. I am grateful for The Montessori School and I am confident that my kids will be well prepared for the future because of the educational foundation they have received early on. I highly recommend this school for any family that is seeking a learning environment that promotes independence, embraces differences in a healthy way, and creates lifelong learners who will ultimately strive to make a positive difference in the world!

Wow. This school could be so much better if Swafford was out. So many great teachers used to teach here but have been forced out because of Swaffords militant style of leadership. I feel so sad for the students who have no other option. It doesn’t have to be like this.