Kendrick Lakes Elementary School

The first day of school, we received a note from the teacher that stated, "So glad to have you 'hear'". If you can't spot what is wrong with that, then perhaps your student is in the right place. Things went downhill fast after that. I found the teacher and principal more concerned with budget cuts than with the education of my child. Perhaps I'm old fashioned, but I at least expect the teachers to know how to spell!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter began at KL in Kindergarten and tested into the Gifted and Talented Program. In a matter of 3 years I had 2 separate teachers tell me my daughter had ADD. After extensive testing we determined the problem was not with our daughter, but with the classroom. Her 3rd grade teacher pointed out flaws, in front of the class, on numerous occasions. She even accused her of lying, in front of the class, which we determined were unfounded accusations. Our daughter began to hate going to school and also hate herself. We told her just to hold out until the following year and that the next teacher would be much better but her current teacher was asked to move up with the class the following year. We transfered to another Gifted and Talented school this year and have had a phenomenal year with our daughters self esteem growing in leaps and bounds.
--Submitted by a parent

This third year principal is caring, dedicated, and a true leader. She is getting the IB program going at the school. My daughter loves going to school. There are many activities to do. My daughter and her father attended the father/daughter dance last night. They had a great time!! The principal is approachable and interested in every child getting a quality education. May daughter's scores are the hightest ever since the new principal has been there!
--Submitted by a parent

The Principal at this school is horrible. She has no way of following through with discipline problems at the school. She is a new principal and it shows. The way she treats some of the parents and even some of the teachers is completely unacceptable. I do have to say that the teachers at this school are the only reason I am keeping my child here (for right now). Although, the principal keeps getting rid of some of the best teachers here.
--Submitted by a parent

My child is very happy at KLES. She started in the 3rd grade and we, as a family, we have been received very warmly by the teachers, staff and the PTA. I like that KLES offers everything from Special Education to a Gifted and Talented program and is fortunate enough to have full-time specials teachers! The PTA works hard to support the school as well as the teachers and students. KLES also has many students who have been 'choice' enrolled. Which means this is not their home school, but parents have chosen to enroll their children in this school because of its excellent reputation!
--Submitted by a parent

My Child is always talking about how much fun the different styles of learning at this school is. They are always thinking of new ways to reach these kids. There are plenty of field trips and wonderful teachers. I feel that my child IS getting the positive attention that is so important to a good education.
--Submitted by a parent

It's a fine school, trapped in a terrible facility. With virtually no windows. Food service is shameful, and handicap access is poor. So why do we remain? My child's GT class is a model learning environment, with 18 students working with a witty, devoted teacher. My child is happy and successful, so we'll put up with the rest.
--Submitted by a parent

No communication from teacher to parent. Too much emphasis given to GT students. A couple of outstanding teachers at the 4th grade level. Music teacher is also outstanding. My child goes here because it's within walking distance.
--Submitted by a parent

Please keep looking. The Principal here does not care too much for a parent's concern. She will take the word of the teacher before the parent. I don't really see much in the way of extracurricular activities. The best part of the whole school is the music teacher and honestly, that's quite sad to say seeing how the other classes are more important to a child's education. This school lacks terribly.
--Submitted by a parent

I've been quite disappointed with KLES. The teacher communication is practically non-existent. I didn't find out until I received my daughter's report card that she was doing so poorly. The teacher promised assistance, yet in less than a week she failed to uphold her word. Her 4th grade teacher was more concerned with text messaging and answering her cell phone during class than giving that attention to the kids that needed the extra help. I will be removing my daughter from this school next year. I should have removed her last year, but didn't want to make my decision on one bad apple. 'No Child Left Behind' does not apply to this school. If your child is perfect, they'll do well.
--Submitted by a parent