Buffalo Trail Elementary School

I have gone here since it opened in 2006- this is my last year here. I have had so much fun in the curriculum up until this year where I just can't deal with the teacher (then again, she's new this year and needs to settle in a bit...). Other than that, they have an amazing gifted/talented program and also a fantastic ILC/special needs program. The lunch program in Cherry Creek Schools has always been good, and probably will always be. During the fourth year there (third grade for me) there were about 32 kids in a class and about 1100 kids total, but Pine Ridge got rid of the 500 kid overflow. I am not sure about middle school or what it will be like, but my education so far has been fun, welcoming, and better than the program in Aurora School District.

I love Buffalo Trail! We have been at this school 4 years now, and have yet to have a problem. The teachers are responsive and attentive. They challenge the students and expect excellences. I've enjoyed getting to know the staff and principal as well. Any concerns have been addressed and handles promptly and to my satisfaction. The teachers are top-notch and seem to love what they are doing. Last year was a difficult year due to growth in the school that wasn't relieved until a new school opened in the area this year! But I thought everyone handled it the best they could. I'm very thankful to be able to send my children to Buffalo Trail.
—Submitted by a parent

My oldest daughter just finished kindergarten and we are so pleased with the level of learning that occurred over the year she was there. Her teacher communicated well and I found the homework appropriate in aiding in her overall success - she is reading wonderfully, adding, subtracting, telling time etc. She is blossoming socially as well. Buffalo Trail has a FANTASTIC Enrichment program for families that must work full time - the teachers are AMAZING - my daughter loved going to school every day! The parking lot can be a bit of a nightmare but they have made some changes to make it safer. My daughter is excited to start 1st grade and our youngest daughter will start pre-school in the fall as well.
—Submitted by a parent

The fourth grade math program has been horrible at best. My child could have gotten a better math education at Primrose Daycare. It is sad. The parking lot is a death trap and the principal turns her head to the issues.
—Submitted by a parent

My son just started kindergarten this year and we are extremely pleased with the quality of services BT provides. My son has special needs and was put in an IEP around mid school year, and since then he has made vast improvements. The school takes his special needs very seriously and are very proactive regarding his special services plan. All of the teachers and staff are very warm and welcoming to the students and the parents. As far as accademics, I am amazed at the speed that these children are learning and the content of knowledge that is being taught. It is now close to the end of the school year and my kindergartener is writing full stories, has solid sentence structure knowledge, can tell time, knows currency, can add and subtract, has a basic knowledge of geography, and so much more. I am amazed.
—Submitted by a parent

I was only able to tolerate 3 months for my daughter in kindergarden before I pulled her out, as she was screaming , not wanting to go to school, and stating that she was 'dumb'. The teachers have their pre-determined teaching approach, and were unable to change their approach when it would benefit the child . The school chose to eliminate recess for kindergarden, and when I voiced concern, the principle stated that 'she would hate to see the other parents prevent their children from befriending my child due to my families opinions.' Our teacher was unresponsive when requested to provide practice materials for home. Homework is intensive and required 30-40 min. per day in kindergarden. Overall, it was very disappointing. I did 'school of choice' to a different school in the same district and it has been a wonderful experience.

BT is a good school. The kids love going each day. As a parent there are some things I would like to see change. Most of the focus is put on reading and writing in the early years. Which is good, but I would like to see more of a balance with science, math, social studies... I personally think videos are watched too much. I also think there is way too much busy work with the worksheets. I would like to see more hands on activities and teaching. The school is already getting a new principle so we will see what changes take place in the future. There are a lot of great teachers at this school. Some communicate well with the parents, and others do not. It just depends on who you get. Hope to see the ratings improve next year! Maybe BT can get some ideas from Coyote Hills.
—Submitted by a parent

The building is beautiful but it lacks the feeling of an elementary school. I feel that the teachers work extremely hard and care about their students. There is also a great deal of technology that is available to the students which I love.If I could change some things I would like for the administration to be more open and friendly to the students and parents. I also feel that the library needs more books. I know that this is a new school and hopefully the problems will be worked out.
—Submitted by a parent

I love Buffalo Trail. My daughter began kindergarten it's opening year and my son began 3rd grade. I absolutly love the teachers. The staff at Buffalo Trail are young, full of energy, and ready to jump in and teach in a fun controlled enviorment that promotes growth, self confidence, and personal responsibility on top of academics! I am so grateful my children are so blessed to be a part of this school and all of the wonderful staff there.
—Submitted by a parent

Both my son and I love this school! The teachers and teacher assistants are all very skilled with dealing with the children and each child gets individual attention. I'm glad my son will go to Buffalo Trail again next year for another round of excellent pre-school!
—Submitted by a parent

As a parent it is nice to hear from your child that they enjoy going to school. My son attended last year and has already stated how much he has enjoyed his first week at school.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has just finished 1st grade at Buffalo Trail. I don't know how the CSAP Score of this school have been this year, but I would say, in terms of discipline, school spirit, organization and quality of teachers, this is one of the best schools in Cherry Creek. My daughter completed her Kindergarten at Homestead, which, in my view, does not compare to Buffalo Trail in any way. Buffalo Trail is undeniuably better. the Principle has a great vision and keeps the welfare and safty of the students above all. It feels like family being a part of the school. The focus on academics is very clear and they have good extracurricular activities like Chess Club, Math Club even in First Grade. So, unless your kid gets into Challenge School , I would recommed looking into Buffalo Trail. We absolutely love the school !!
—Submitted by a parent

We moved to this school in Jan 08 and are thrilled with the kids' progress! The principal has hired top-notch teachers that are excited about the challenge of starting a new school. There are different ability groups for all kids in math and language arts which was unheard of in elementary level in our old district. I highly recommend this school!!
—Submitted by a parent

I just moved in Jan 08 from Maryland and I love this school. This school exceed district standards with the principal's standards and they really give the kids the attention they need. My child has learned a tremendous amout of new things in 3 months. I would recommend this school to anyone.
—Submitted by a parent