Allendale Elementary School

Over the past 15 years, I have been fortunate to have my children enrolled at SHES. The teachers and staff are exceptional, and I am confident that they prioritize my children's well-being and learning above all else. My children have formed strong bonds with their teachers, built on trust and respect. The school's commitment to keeping parents informed is impressive, and I am grateful for their prompt communication. I wholeheartedly recommend SHES.

This school review is a real challenge. The principal and some teachers overcompensate. In the area of allowing parent participation and control. There is limited parental evolvement. There are some fallacies that reflect that parents are encouraged to be around. For example, parents were once allowed in all grades to come and oversee a class and see how their child was doing. Thus this kind of vulnerability was a good thing. At this moment fear and distrust abounds. From a parent that has wanted to have more interaction there has been limited opportunities. My child further tells me the Principal is mean. I have heard her talk and offer her tone can come across as sharp and harsh. Whether she knows it or not. On a positive point the school seems to be becoming diverse which is a good thing. Those considering on having a child come to this school. Be aware of these observations. The education is not bad as far as learning. The overall grade of 5 is deserved and accurate per this parent’s observations.

Both my kids came from homeschooling. Relaxed homework deadlines, less formal, peaceful loving environment. From the start of the year the teachers were very un-accommodating. Giving failing grades to kids who didn't know how to log into websites used by the school. My youngest bullied and pushed to self depreciation. Concerns barely addressed by the school and staff until they had my son evaluated for the emotional state the bullying caused. My son told to ignore the bullies and sure that is what we say. However it's not the approach a school supposedly "tough on bullying" should respond. How could my son feel safe being brushed off like this?P.E. teachers who let bullying happen. A principal who ensures all is being done while only pushing out the kid being bullied and not the bullies. Let's face it. When kids can thrive at home and then they go to school for a community to fail them. Why send them at all.

Chapman’s Retreat Elementary School is an excellent school. When my daughter started here, she did not know how to read or write words, and within just a few months we saw a remarkable improvement—she is now reading and writing confidently. The teachers are very supportive and truly focused on each child’s growth.The math curriculum is strong, and the school does a wonderful job encouraging social engagement and overall development. My daughter enjoys going to school every day, which says a lot.I highly recommend Chapman’s Retreat Elementary School to any parent looking for a nurturing and effective learning environment for their child.

Worst teachers. Teachers need to have patience to handle kids.