Gallaher (Robert S.) Elementary School

Gallaher has been absolutely fantastic with our autistic daughter. After a year of regression in a "special" school with the Christina School District we felt hesitant about yet another school. The staff at Gallaher has made it their business to know our child and the IEP she has is literally the "Bible" as far as her educational program is concerned.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has frequent staff turn over. Which is always a problem indicator in any school. A school is only as good as the supports for all students and documented actual progress. They lack support for children with iep's in addition to classroom support for teachers. If your child is an average learner, they will do OK, standard researched based programs that, "Anyone can teach, based on the scriptured nature of the program", Haha. Expectations for LD children and children from poverty are low and not alotted instruction that is taught effectively. Your child will be aged out of the school system without being prepared for society or to thier ability. If your child needs support other than a typical learner beware..no expectations or low expectations, support varies with teacher. Not a school that is fair to all children, which is the bases of NCLB. They teach to the test, which is the explaination for the blue ribbon award. To a concerned teacher or parent, recommend going to the Brandywine school district special PTA website, read the article about low preforming schools that embraced NCLB. Inspiring. Good Luck.
—Submitted by a parent

I am very pleased with Gallaher. My child's teachers have been wonderful in helping her learn and develop. They have always seen the best in her and worked to help her improve where she needs improvement.
—Submitted by a parent

Gallaher is the hidden jewel of DE. Though my kid is now in 7th grade in a so-called "superior" school district, IMO there's no better school here than Gallaher. Their test scores are always among the highest in the state. They were 1 of 4 DE schools to receive 2010 National Blue Ribbon Award. I got to know many teachers though volunteerism; they had an excellent and caring staff. (Only 2 I didn't care for, out of maybe 100?) Strong enforcement of their "PAWS" program (Practice problem-solving, Act responsibly, Win respect, Show kindness). Staff very much respects the tremendous parental involvement here. Though they've lost some wonderful staff (due to retirement or career opportunities), I still feel so strongly about the excellence of this school that when I ran across this site, I HAD to brag about Gallaher. LOVE THIS SCHOOL!
—Submitted by a parent

I love Gallaher Elementary. I currently have two children attending the school. My daughter is in the third grade and she is soaring like an "Iron Butterfly". My son is in the fifth grade and he has an IEP and is doing a wonderful job. The school has made all the necessary arrangements to help my son, and as a parent it is necessary to make sure I do my part as well. As a parent I will always advocate for my children because they are the future. Adriane Anderson-Strange
—Submitted by a parent

I love it! The school has always been one of the highest on testing scores. The physical education teacher is creative and energetic. Academics are #1 priority in the school. Carrie
—Submitted by Carrie, a parent

This is a good school over all. The parent/teacher involvement is very good. I have had two daughters attend this school and also myself when I was young. However, they do not follow the 'no child left behind' rule, I think this is an area they should highly improve. I was told by her 1st grade teacher that my daugher would be held back if she did not get tutoring and that I would have to pay for it. I was also told that even though she was failing she did not qualify for their after school/summer programs.
—Submitted by a parent

I love Gallaher! I had a problem with my son's teacher for in the beginning of the 2003-2004 school year. I spoke to the principal, he was transferrred to two wonderful teachers! My son did an excellent job on the DSTP! My son is no angel, but the teachers he has had, have really worked very hard with me to keep him on track!
—Submitted by a parent

I love this school. My daughter has been attending this school for four years and has been successful every year. She has a hearing problem that all the teachers are aware of and have been so helpful in her success. She has rated well above the state and national test levels every year. I credit this to all the hard work her teachers have given her(also the hard work we do at home). I would like to also say that the school is very organized. They have alot of family nights and exibits that allow thte children to feel pride toward they're hard work. I have had a conference with the principal and found her to be very helpful. She is a very qualified person to leave in charge of your children. Teri Capuano
—Submitted by teri capuano, a parent

This is the best elementary school in Newark. Focused on academic excellence, safe-loving and nourishing environment, wonderful team of teachers and support staff for all the kids. My daughter loves to go there. She will be graduating this year and very proud of her school.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter loves this school and I love this school also. They reallly take time out for the kids and I am going to send my 5 year old to this school this year.
—Submitted by Tanasha Jardine-Dorsey, a parent

Well, I have three little ones who attend here, and they love it and I love it! The techers are great, the new principal is just okay, although I highly reccomend this school.
—Submitted by Sue Hickmann, a parent