W.G. Rice El School

Their Math and Rading scores are FAR below statewide percentages for Pennsylvania. Looking at surrounding schools the percentages are in the low to mid 80s for both, while WG Rice scores around a 65% reading, and 47% math. The secondary school in this district doesn't seem any better, while they spent how many millions making the exterior look nice. Put the money into the education, not the facade of a building.

Having my child in Rice elementary has been an okay experience. Not to say that we have not had to stand up for our child a few times. Most of the teachers are very pleasant. The principle is not very helpful (says he will do things just to get you off his back, nothing is ever really resolved) or friendly, my child is always saying how upset/moody he seems when walking the halls, etc... The transportation for the SD is VERY hard to deal with, they can be quite rude and pushy. To get anything resolved, you MUST speak with higher ups. As for the office staff of the school, they are quite snooty...not sure why, this isn't Beverly Hills. As for the education aspects, I am mostly pleased. Although If my child needed special learning, I do not believe I would feel the same way. Lunch aids are nice ( :

Our child has attended Rice since first grade. Our initial experience was great but second grade not so much; the teacher had no enthusiasm and seemed very unorganized. Our child is now in 3rd grade & seems to enjoy school once again. The teacher seems very disciplined & organized. Most of the staff are friendly and understanding. The current principal and superintendant/school board however, seem to care more about test scores than student safety (to name two concerns- students are required to walk across a parking lot to access the playground & playground gates are without locks allowing anyone access). Although we're disappointed with several aspects of Rice in particular, we give it an average rating.

My four children went through W.G. Rice Elementary School. It is truly a great school. The teachers, administration, and staff are all top quality. One child of ours is hard-of-hearing and another is moderately deaf. They provided an excellent education and individualized attention and dealt very well with special needs.