Heritage Elementary School

As a Heritage parent for 5 years, I am concerned with the current condition of Heritage. I agree with the recent reviews of the leadership, front office and some of the staff. The current principal is not effective anymore. We have had wonderful teachers through the years, but again a lot of them have left Heritage . I think 5th grade is strong year but 6th grade has been less than great. They will NOT be prepared for Middle school. If you have a child in the younger classes there, I think there are still effective teachers. Discipline is rare-bullying is said that it is not tolerated, BUT nothing is done when it is present. I know first hand. If not for the wonderful parents, Middle & High school and nice neighborhoods--this school would NOT be on my list to go to. One bad review I can see but this many..someone needs to take notice!!
--Submitted by a parent

I agree that the leadership of this school is substandard. I am very disappointed in this school after two years. The staff in the school in extremely UNFRIENDLY when you enter. You are rarely greeted, often times ignored. The principal seems to never be around or involved in the daily affairs of our children. She definitely seems to be only concerned with her reputation than actual learning. The teachers do seem to fly by the seat of their pants. They teach to the tests and do not push the students who need a little extra challenge. The PTA might as well be non-existent as it is about as useless of a PTA I've ever seen. The meetings last 30-60 SECONDS! There is no communication, no updating of websites; basically, give us your money and let us spend it, we might tell you what we do with it. I would think twice before buying a house in this school district.
--Submitted by a parent

The leadership at this school is substandard and most teachers are flying by the seat of their pants with little direction from the top down. The school seems to be more concerned about their protecting their image versus being real and doing what is in the best interest of the children. Sat test scores are the priority while they ignor the importance of educating each childs individual needs such as social, emotional, and physical development. If you get a great teacher, you may be ok, but word has it that most of the good teachers fled to other madison schools because of favoritism being exhibited by the principal. An overhall in the leadership and administration at this school is what is needed to turn the ship around. The five star stuff as well as most of the 5 star reviews are all smoke and mirrors. This is the reason why many parents are choosing alternative means of educating their children such as private school or home schooling. It is unfortunate, because with the right leadership and administration, it could be a much better school. The school is in a good area and district that deserves much better.
--Submitted by a parent

I have noticed through the years that Heritage seems to teach the students up to the SAT testing days and then instruction falls off dramatically. Many days are filled with board game days, field days, weeklong pay camp, etc. It seems like the final SAT testing day is the finish line at Heritage and then the school coasts into the summer break.
--Submitted by a parent

My son is in first grade in this school and he is doing great.He likes his school and he is an excellent student.His teacher is wonderful and I credit her a great deal for her good work.I would not want my child to be anywhere else
--Submitted by a parent

I loved Heritage and the majority of the teachers we came in contact with. Dr. Davenport was always professional, responsive, and caring when it came to my son! My son and I both miss the school! I hate that we had to move to another school district!! Heather and Chance Wilson
--Submitted by a parent

Heritage is a great school from the outside...once you enter you will find out it's not all it's cracked up to be. Most of the parents and subs run the school with out question. The principal shows favoritism among parents, teachers, and students. I do not think she does a good job standing behind and supporting her teachers. Her ideas and goals for the school changes as often as the wind blows. I don't think the administration does a good job of making the students responsible for their actions. I think they are too easy on the students which does not prepare them for the real world!!
--Submitted by a teacher

I love this school! I've taught for about 20 years at many different schools. This has been my best experience! Dr. Davenport LOVES children and expects teachers to do the same. The character education program is amazing. Wish my own children had gone to this school for K-6. Love it!
--Submitted by a teacher

Overall, I like Heritage, but I feel like the principal doesn't do a whole lot about parental concerns. She comes across as very proud of herself and her ideas and makes others feel as though their opinions don't matter. That doesn't make for very happy parents because we all know how we feel about our kids! A little empathy goes a long way. I also have a big problem with punishing the innocent along with the guilty. My child was badly hurt by another child at school. When he defended himself just to get the other child to stop, he was punished as well. I don't agree with this, but we've continued to tell him to defend himself, even if he gets in trouble. The after-school program at this school is also in dire need of an overhaul, but that is another story for another day!
--Submitted by a parent

I love this school and so do my children. We moved here this summer from another state with horrible school and very mean teachers and children. I feel blessed that we found Madison, Alabama and Heritage Elementary. My children are safe, they are treated well, they are getting a good education and the school is very welcoming and friendly. Our house just sold and we are in search of another. I hope and pray every day that something will come on the market in the Heritage district so that my children never have to go to another school. I understand everyone can have a different experience at the same school but if you knew what we have gone through in the past 2 years at the previous school you would be counting your blessing at Heritage.
--Submitted by a parent