Gold River Discovery Center K-8 School

We had a very bad experience with one teacher at GRDC last year. Our son was not a good match with his Kindergarten teacher to say the least. She quickly identified him as a 'problem child' for normal behavior. We encountered exaggeration and overreaction instead of nurturing and care. Ultimatums were issued the second week of school. It was mind-boggling. Our son came home saying he was 'bad' which was sad. It was a terrible situation; we withdrew our son to preserve his self-esteem. He now attends private school and is doing well. After removing him the teacher claimed he had stolen a library book. All in all a terrible experience, one I would not wish on anyone. The VP was little help and exhibited an "take it or leave it" attitude. Mind you, she was nice enough, but clearly had other things on her mind. The daycare program was ok. They kept the children busy and involved with crafts and various activities. In sum: we had a terrible experience at this highly rated school. I waited 5 months to write this review to be fair. Apparently the other teachers are wonderful and nurturing. We just had a bad match. For the record, my wife and I are teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

Iagree, Teacher Jane is a phenomenal preschool teacher! She is so kind and patient. We were so grateful for her many years of experience & plan to enroll our other daughter when the time comes. Music Charlie, the Pumpkin patch field trip & the garden were great.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a very good school and a very involved community of parents. The volunteerism is strong and the children are a very diverse mix - a mini united nations. They get along great and understand that there are many cultures and all are part of their world-view. Many children thrive in the GRDC environment. That said, I have known several families who live close by have found their children are better served by Pershing for the Rapid Learner program or Deterding for more of an arts focus. By 6th grade middle school options are also open. No one school can be the right place for all learners. This school is well above average, superior even. But don't become complacent if any school is not the perfect fit for your child.
--Submitted by a parent

Wow. This school is amazing. everything is top notch! My kids love it and there is no comparison to the dedication and friendliness of the staff! Good job GRDC and keep going strong!
--Submitted by a parent

Great school, leadership, teachers, parents, staff, and students are all top notch.
--Submitted by a parent

I have gone to 5 schools. (including gold river) and this is the best one. I have been there for 2 years now. Last year, I was in Mr. Grigsby's class and LOVED it! And now, I am in Mrs. Moon's class and am LOVING it!
--Submitted by a student

My daughter has been attending this wonderful school since Kindergarten. She thoroughly enjoy her experiences and had excel tremendously at this school throughout. As a working mother, I am unable to attend many parent volunteer activities during school, however I am quite impressed with the volume of help and volunteers from parents in this community. It is a great fit for my child and she is progressively increasing her academic level above average. I am greatful for this wonderful school and its staffs. They have a reputable Blue Ribbon award recognized by the State for their hard work well done in education our children. Good Job GRDC !
--Submitted by a parent

Gold River Discovery Center is an awesome school. My daughter is in 2nd grade there and I have been thoroughly impressed with the amount of learning and academics she's had in Kindergarten and 1st grade already. My daughter is an above-average reader so I was worried she was going to be bored in school, but the teachers are very accomodating to her reading level to help keep her challenged.
--Submitted by a parent

Excelent school environments and staffs.
--Submitted by Douglas Kim, a parent

Gold River is a great school! There is a proposal to make it a k-7 next year and k-8 the following year. This is exciting. Gold River Discovery Center is a newer facility with buildings of 6 classrooms all opening up to a shared 'pod space.' Computers are well integrated into the curriculum. The ratio of computers to students is about 1 computer for every 3 students. So the shared pod space allows for several classes to have all students on the computers at one time. Academics are emphsized with challenge projects used to demonstrate application of the skills taught. Parents are very involved and an important part of the overall success of the school. Kindergarten teachers hold parent workshops to help guide parents towards the school's philosophy.
--Submitted by a teacher