Gulf Elementary School

My child has attended this school for 3 years and has been miserable. The vice principle stands in the door way upon arrival of the students, staring them down to write all children up for dress code even if it is appropriate. The administration, in my opinion, uses intimidation to scare the children for their own power trips. Children are not allowed to bring water bottles to school nor are they allowed to leave class to go to the water fountains. Kids are split up at lunch and unable to sit with their peers.I myself have complained to the principle in regards to the way the students are treated. the students feel as if they are going to a prison camp. It's very unfortunate, this school has amazing teachers but unprofessional administration, and vice principle. The district should send home surveys to the households and get the feed back about this school to possibly improve policy. It's ashame when students are bullied by their own administration. I would never recommend this school since it destroys self esteem in children, the teachers would benefit from seeking employment elsewhere.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a picky parent. I want the best for my kids. I have had great experiences with the teachers. My daughter has fit in quite well and is comfortable with her environment. The 2012-2013 school year has brought many significant changes. The new leadership has had time to implement its mission. Change is hard on the parents and I have tried to take that all into account as I write this review. Over the past few months a chill has crept into the school. What was once a warm inviting place has become cold and indifferent. For the first time ever in 4 years it has begun to feel like the largest elementary school in Lee County. Our family has now become a number instead of a name. Sad.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved from New Jersey and both of my kids went to Gulf Schools. My youngest had some difficulties reading but thanks to his teacher Mrs. Guyan, he improved his reading, he learned not only to read great but to enjoy school. His grades were very good and his experience at Gulf Elementary for him and for myself has been a blessing.
—Submitted by a parent

My two children attend Gulf Elementary, and I cannot say enough good things about the school. We transferred here from Palm Beach County School District. Talk about a different between night and day. The teachers at Gulf are caring and involved and treat each student like an individual. The instruction at Gulf is excellent. The classes are exciting for my sons. The ESE program is absolutely outstanding. Any time I've had any concern, I was responded to immediately, and the issue was dealt with professionally and promptly. Thank you to all the hard-workers at Gulf elementary.
—Submitted by a parent

My 2 kids go to Gulf Elementary when we moved here 2years ago I heard many compliment about this school so when we put them in I was excited but The teachers of my kids were so business like and no passion, they were just too busy to finish their task, all I heard from them were "She can't do this he can't do this. I don't know why can't do it" If they can't be patient, passion or simply can't love kids just quit it. And they are so defensive thats make tall walls between parent & teacher. But their substitute teachers & special ED teacher were great.
—Submitted by a parent

ESE teachers are awesome..always going the extra mile . The teachers are dedicated and loving nor have I ever seen such a great principal. Walks around the whole campus. Checking on everyone and everything going on in the school. He knows every childs name. Amazes me.
—Submitted by a parent

Great teachers but the leadership simply sucks. The previous principal was much more willing to help with issues to resolve them.
—Submitted by a parent

My grandson is in K at Gulf and I am amazed at all he is learning. I had heard good things about this school - and it has not disappointed me.

My son is in 5th grade at Gulf Elementary and has been here since 4th grade. Our experience hasn't been that great. The teacher is very nice, competent and returns emails the same day. He is very helpful too. However, there is Bully in the classroom, this kid also misbehaves etc The teacher has declared he cannot handle him and nothing has been done about it. There is no support given to the teacher that is faced with such a challenge. Kids do not assimilate different cultures well.... and they do not offer Spanish. Never have I heard of a school that did not offer Spanish in Florida. Teachers need support it shouldn't be all about the numbers.
—Submitted by a parent

5 Stars the best school for both my sons. They are learning way ahead of the curve thanks to the great teacher and staff.
—Submitted by a parent

Year after year, Gulf Elementary upholds its reputation by being an A+ school. There is much dedication which exists within these school walls and, bottom line, it's all for the sake of putting our children first!
—Submitted by a parent

Gulf Elementary is a fantastic school! The reading program that is implemented in Kdg. and 1st grade is phenominal. The staff is fantastic and they truely care about the kids.
—Submitted by a parent

From the staff to the faculty these people love children! The atmosphere and the environment are positive.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended Gulf Elementary School since kindergarden and she loves it. Espically Mr Mesch.
—Submitted by a parent

This is our second generation of children going to Gulf Elementary School. Mr. Mesch is a outstanding Prinipal! His excellent memory (remembering each childs name and family members) makes everyone feel very comfortable there and his energetic spirit is contagious. No wonder parents and teachers strive so hard to do their best. The school is equipt with computers and the newest learning equiptment that make them hunger for achievemt. Parents are eager to help and the teachers are very dedicated. I would recommend ths school highly to anyone moving to this area.
—Submitted by a parent

As a parent and future educator i am disappointed to say that this school is more concerned with numbers then they are with the education of there students! After expressing my concerns of my sons grades and behavior to the teacher and having no change ... i brought it to the principals in hopes that something could be done ( such as a class change) they were very defensive of there teacher and would not change his classroom to a teacher with a different learning style because it would mess up there class size.In addition I asked to observe and volunteer in my sons classroom to get a better understanding of what was going on. I was ignored and felt pushed away and not involved with my sons education. If you are a parent that wishes to be apart of your son/daughter education please rethink Gulf Elem. School!
—Submitted by a parent

This school has changed over the last several years. It has become impersonal and too big. The average student does not get serviced.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended Gulf since Kindergarten, I have to say, I have NOT had a bad experience and she is in 2nd grade. From the teachers to the principals, wonderful!
—Submitted by a parent

My son is in 3rd grade at this school. We moved here in the middle of last school year and we come from an area where the expectations of the children and PARENTS is extremely low. At Gulf Elementary I really feel like everyone is involved in my son's education and truly want him to succeed. He went from failing, barely being able to keep up with his classmates, and really hating school, to making the Honor Roll, and looking forward to doing homework and going to school. This is all within 1 year. My son is being challenged for the first time and really gets to feel good about himself. As a parent, I feel like I know everything that is going on at his school, good and bad. I don't find out things when it is too late to do anything. I LOVE THIS SCHOOL!
—Submitted by a parent

Thius is a big school with alot of students but the learning experiences that they receive is outstanding. The teachers and principals really do care and get involved in all daily activities with the students. They are strict but it helps keep all of the children well behaved and respectful. I highly recommend this school to any parent. The gifted program is awesome!
—Submitted by a parent