Walter Jackson Elementary School

This is a difficult review for me to write because the experience was so mixed for my child. His teachers were either great, or terrible. I had heard nothing but rave reviews about the administration, but that was the previous administration. This administration actually worked proactively to exclude me from the process. Rather than spill personal divorce related nonsense in this forum, I'll simply say that I have all of the emails and correspondence to support my statements. I will say that the PTA and parent support at this school are outstanding. I know that several dozens of my friends here have nothing but great things to say, but that was not my experience with this school.
—Submitted by a parent

I have had two boys attend here 16 years apart. The teacher-student ratio is smaller than most elementary schools in the city and the scores are fantastic. Beyond all of that, this school has excellent PTA and community involvement. Extra curricular activities at this school include a week at Space Camp, a violin program, pioneer village trip, Alabama State Capitol trip and involvement in educational competitions. My oldest just graduated with a degree in Astro-Physics, but it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see the benefits of Walter Jackson.
—Submitted by a parent

I have sent two children through WJES in the last 8 years and I would not trade their time there for a million dollars. Walter Jackson really is the best kept secret in Decatur. It is the smallest elementary school in town, so the teacher/student ratio is excellent. The principal and teachers are wonderful and involved with all of the kids. The parent/PTA involvement is very strong and the kids consistently score at or above the local "magnet" school. As others have said, I wouln't even consider moving until my children had graduated out of WJES.
—Submitted by a parent

I have three children that attend walter jackson and the staff is always very friendly, always keeping us informed and they are great with the students
—Submitted by a parent

Walter Jackson is a great school by any standard. I have moved several times and have only been completely satisfied with this school. The academics are very strong as is the communication with the parents.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved here 6 years ago and my children went all the way through elementary school at Walter Jackson. We love this school, the teachers, the staff and principal! It is a well kept secret here in town, but it has been the best thing for my kids and for us. We love it and are sad that we won't be there anymore as our youngest has just completed his last year. It is a wonderful, enriching place for all children!
—Submitted by a parent

This is the best kept secret in Decatur. We have lived in school districts lauded as the best in the nation and still have friends there. I would put my 3rd grader's education up against any of them! The kids have recess AND PE every day. The school system addresses the needs of gifted children, not just with a magnet school, but within each school as well. The level of parent involvement is exceptional. WJES also has a fairly diverse student population, a plus in my book. The administration is the finest I've encountered, the teachers amazing and the overall experience wonderful. I echo the sentiments of the post below: we won't move it means leaving Walter Jackson!
—Submitted by a parent

We have a 1st grader at Walter Jackson and will have another child entering K-5 next year. We love this school. The teachers and faculty are wonderful.
—Submitted by a parent

I have a third grader at Walter Jackson and about to have one in the K program as well. This is the BEST school in Decatur, Al. Everyone knows each other and helps each other our. I can't say enough good things about our teachers. If you want loving, caring and smart teachers, send your children here. The principal has an open door policy. Parents, kids, and teachers this applies to. If you have any problem at all just go and talk with the teacher or principal and the problem Will be solved! I would never move my childern to another school district. In fact I have refused to look at new houses not in Walter Jackson's district. I can wait for a new house my children deserve the best now, and that would be at Walter Jackson. I Love it!
—Submitted by Paige Bibbee, a parent

This is a fantastic school. The environment is nurturing yet progressive. Every teacher knows every student's name. The principal is incredibly talented. Students are encouraged to learn at their own pace (for example, my first grader reads with the third graders and does math with second graders). I could not recommend this school more highly.
—Submitted by a parent

Walter Jackson is a wonderful school. Our daughter loves Walter Jackson. It has been a postive experience for her. The PTA is very active.
—Submitted by a parent