Pinewood Elementary School

This was my child’s first year and it was a positive experience.

This school is horrible. Over half of the kids are not on reading level yet they continue to push them through the system to next grade. Every since Principal Barr left, the school has gone downhill. The new Principal is horrible. She does not know how to deal with children at all. Students are not learning in the classroom. Most of my sons work is done at home! What are they doing in class???? The teacher communication is terrible, with the exception of a couple teachers. Mrs. Wingate. The teacher turnover ratio is really bad.

I have nothing, but positive things to say about Pinewood. Principal Barr is amazing! Communication with parents, from Mr. Barr and teachers, is top notch. When I have concerns or questions, they are answered the same day. I am confident my son is not only getting a great education in the classroom, but he is involved in after school clubs (LEGO, Dance, Chess and Checkers club are just a few examples), and enjoys Art, Multi-media, music, and computer classes. The PTA is very active. There are smart boards and computers in every classroom and no trailers! The on-site afterschool program is also very convenient - homework is completed and he doesn't have to take a shuttle bus to a different location.

Jacob Barr, the principal, makes this place. He opens the doors for every child on the first day in a suit and tie, greets every parent he chances by with eye contact and a smile throughout the year. Every week we get a phone message detailing the coming week, supplemented by an email that allows for easy calendar entry of all important events. My son is in 1st grade and has Mrs. Mullins. She is also a bright spot for us. She sends weekly reminder emails and was very gracious when I came in last month to do an activity with the children in her class. The school avidly seeks volunteers and allows for a lot of parental contact with the students. I had my son in private school for his first two years (TK and Kindergarten) and was apprehensive about the switch to public. So far things have been great- and I feel that the lunch served here is even better than the fast food and take out served at the private school. I am only giving four stars because he hasn't yet finished this year- I will review again at the end of this year -hopefully with a five! :)