Weatherly Heights Elementary School

My son came to Weatherly Heights from one of the of the top elementary schools in the Madison County School System and has learned more in these 4 months then he did all year last year. He came as a 4th grader and has had no problems with being accepted as the school has a strong no-bullying policy. The science lab (where he has already done dissections) and the S.P.A.C.E. (gifted) program are amazing as is the FREE after-school robotics club. The parents are expected to be very involved and they are! It has a small neighborhood school feel and his teacher, Ms. Klinzak is amazing! My one complaint is they don't do a good job of orienting new students before school begins. So we didn't know basics like what time made you officially "tardy" , how to do drop off/ pick up, lunch numbers, etc. So be sure to ask that info before hand. They have a "curriculum meeting" the second week of school but its a bit hard to navigate before that.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has attended Weatherly since 1st Grade. He had Mrs Thomas for 1st grade and she was fantastic. I was really impressed with her all year long. My son had Mrs Bateman for 2nd grade and she seemed to do a pretty good job but the kids watched too many non educational videos in my opinion. The PTA is fantastic with 100% parent participation and the PTA self funds a science teacher position at the school. There are alot of fundraisers but we don't participate unless its a dance or a festival. We are completly satisified with the education that my son is receiving there.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent administration and staffing! Good community support and PTA involvement. My daughter has since went on to middle school from this teaching and has been more than well prepared to take on all advanced classes offerred in sixth and seventh grade.
--Submitted by a parent

I have three children at this school and overall have been very pleased with the quality of the teachers and teaching styles. Two of my children have IEP's and I find that the special Ed teachers are excellent, especially Mrs Crowell, who has worked with both of my children. The Kindergarten department has a strong, positive teaching team. The Pre-School is excellent with "Highly" qualified teachers, something that is not common. There are strengths every other year in the teaching grades, but there are excellent teachers in every grade if you are lucky enough to get them. If you have an easy or average child then you will have no trouble with any teacher at the school. The principal can be intimidating but has the best interests of the children at the forefront of her mind.
--Submitted by a parent

The principal and staff at Weatherly have created a warm and inviting environment where the students are challenged and supported. There are also many extracurricular activities, especially for an elementary school.
--Submitted by a parent

We really love Weatherly Elem. for our children. They were new students this year and have had an easy time adjusting, thanks to the teachers and principals.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is outstanding. I can not say enough good things about my experience with the staff and the principal as well. My son has attended this school for 2 years and is thriving. I appreciate that there is a great emphasis on parent participation...yes, there are lots of fundraisers...but the PTA/fundraisers contributes a great deal to the school's success.
--Submitted by a parent

We've been happy with the teachers and the curriculum. I'll agree with other posts that there are way too many fundraisers, but I don't mind giving a flat donation. The only reason this school doesn't get 5 stars is because of the principal. She is TERRIBLE! (And glad to see I'm not alone in this opinion after reading some of the other views). She could care less about the parents and is very defensive if you approach her about an issue. My husband and I refuse to talk to her anymore and use the Asst. Prinicpal, Mr. Strong. Mr. Strong is great. He listens to both sides of the story, reassures you that your kid is what they care about the most and makes you feel like he is trying to do the right thing. I'm not sure how Ms. Stokes can remain the principal with all these complaints.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had children at Weatherly for 4 years now. One is about to enter 4th grade and one about to enter 1st. We've had a fairly good experience. Most teachers are highly competent, and kind toward the children. However, the principal leaves a lot to be desired! She does not give a hoot about parental concerns! Also, several teachers show too many videos, and many give far too much homework for the age level of their students. (I am qualified to say this since I am a former elementary school teacher myself!) The curriculum in the earlier grades is also disappointing. It does a good job of teaching the children, but not in a developmentally appropriate manner. (Too many worksheets!)
--Submitted by a parent

My childern go to Weatherly. I do think there is too many fundraisers. My kids say that they don't get enough time to eat lunch because of the line being so long and also to many fights along the 5 grade boys. I don't think the principle takes it serious. It needs to be handled.
--Submitted by a parent