Lichen K-8 School

Not a good school for 7th or 8th grade. Teachers are limited. No extra-curricular. Too much brow-beating going on under the guise of "preparation for high school." Kids are just beaten down and lose interest and hope. Although the principal is great - the teachers don't follow her leadership nor do they have her level of dedication to the students. The lower grades teachers - many of them are good - a few are not and should not even be still teaching there after numerous complaints years ago.
--Submitted by a parent

I have four kids in my family from KG through 6th grade going to this school.All the kids are doing well in studies. Academically and discipline wise its a good school. Teachers are caring, hardworkers and keep us informed about kids progress time to time. I recommend this school to other parants as I didn't observe any negative aspect of this school in last 10 years period.
--Submitted by a parent

This reviewer got it right. It is 2010 and the same problems still exist in the 7th & 8th grade. While it is a cut above sending your kids to Sylvan Middle School (shudder) - it will not get your kids ready for high school. The AVID concepts that are supposed to be embedded in the curriculum are nowhere to be seen. My sister was an AVID teacher - they don't trash kids!
--Submitted by a parent

lichen is a great school. the teachers are terrific. I have 3 kids at Lichen and would recommend the school to everyone.
--Submitted by a parent

Lichen has come a long way. In 2008-2009 we continue to see an increase in academic achievement which can be directly attributed to our teachers' hard work with our kids. Lichen's scores are above the district average and continuing to climb. With the addition of a band and choir program this year wonderful things are happening. We have a great PTA that strives to bring fun actitivities to our school. Our new principal, Ms. Butorac is excellent. School discipline is maintained, academics, sports and arts supported and parent involvement strongly encouraged. Lichen is a great place for your kids to get an education.
--Submitted by a parent

Terrible school, they hardly watch the children, they cannot handle any bullies on the playground. My child went from k-5th grade not being able to read, and they didn't even notice. I spoke to the teacher and they said my daughter could read fine, but I knew different, it wasn't until after I pulled her out of that school and put her into another that she was finally able to read and write good. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO THIS SCHOOL!
--Submitted by a parent

While the school has some wonderful teachers, the 7th and 8th grade teachers seem to work against the parents instead of with them. They refuse to try to work this out with me and my son's education is suffering because of it.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has been having issues since the 2nd grade his 2nd grade teacher was wonderful and we worked closely with her,but when we requested a sst meeting not once,but twice he was denied because 'he was considered academically too high'He is now in 3rd grade and had to hire a special educational advocate just to get the ball rolling.We are still having issues and we will decide to push for my son to have a proper education in a safe environment.Would NOT recommend this school to any parent.
--Submitted by a parent

I've had four children in this school,(one still is)and have had no problems. They've recognized learning disabilities and responded quickly to my children's needs. Their programs are exciting and educational,leaving the kids wanting more. Parent involvement is good here, I've never seen a lack of help during events. I've seen this school evolve over about twenty years, and it has never slowed in improving. I feel my Daughter is safe here, and she loves her teachers. The campus is clean and well maintained.
--Submitted by Lance de Cesare, a parent

My Gate identified child went to this school, for the 4th grade and a few days into the 5th. I can't recommend it. The principal always supports her staff above the needs of the children. One teacher was seriously in the wrong line of work. He seemed very 'burnt out', frequently absent due to substituting as principals at other schools. At 1 point he was gone for 3 weeks. Class room inst. was poor. Academically sad environment...Don't send your child here.
--Submitted by a parent