Hidden Oak Elementary School

This is a wonderful wonderful school. This was the first school I ever took my daughter to and I, honestly, had no idea until we had to move out of the area and went to a terrible school, how good we had it. She has severe learning disabilities and they were excellent in helping her. The teachers and parents are very involved and there are many programs available for the children. We are considering going back to Gainesville from Miami just for this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a great school and a wonderful learning environment. I am so glad we are able to send our child to this school. The teachers and staff really care about the students, and about teaching them well.
—Submitted by a parent

My son started Kindergarten at Hidden Oak this year and I have volunteered there several times. the teachers and environment are great
—Submitted by a parent

My first child graduated from Hidden Oak, my second child is in 3rd grade, and my baby is about to start Kindergarten in the fall. I am so pleased with this school - they have really shown to be caring and understanding when it comes to the needs of my children. The teachers are enthusiastic about their jobs, the parents are very involved, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to 'her' school, and Mr. Knowles is always there when you need him@ The only - and I mean ONLY - disappointment I have is that the gifted program is not a full day dedicated classroom. I would love to see a gifted program that is a separate class and not a pull-out. Other than that, I highly recommend Hidden Oak to anyone!
—Submitted by a parent

I have been very pleased with my daughter's 6 years at Hidden Oak. She just started a challenging middle school program and we both know she was very well prepared! We loved each one of her Hidden Oak teachers and always found them accessible. The Orff/music program was excellent preparation for middle school band! My child loved art and PE and was challenged -- I am glad to know that additional time for physical activity is required this year--once a week was not enough. The afterschool enrichment program was tops. I love it that each grade has one major performance with all kids involved. Hidden Oak is an excellent school with excellent teachers, principal, and staff. We will always look at elementary school as a very special time in our lives. Thanks, everyone. You play a large part in launching our kids and do a truly wonderful job at Hidden Oak!
—Submitted by a parent

Love the staff at this school. So far I have only dealt with K, 1st and 2nd, plus music, art, computer, library, staff, BUT...these people are the best I have ever come across. I feel so fortunate to have my son in Ms. Rawl's class.
—Submitted by a parent

from what i have seen this school is great. I hear it is a very sought after school as far as getting a career there. The school is in an ideal setting surrounded by great neighborhoods and lots of families.
—Submitted by Kristen Mahalak, a parent

I love this school. It has a very warm, caring atmosphere, and the children get everything they need. Parents can become very involved in the child's education and are welcomed to become volunteers. They are then actually welcomed and can become great volunteers to the school and the students. Dr. Richardson is a wonderful, hard-working principal, and I feel very fortunate to have my two children (K and 3rd)attend Hidden Oak.
—Submitted by J. Hunziker, a parent

My daughter loves attending Hidden Oak. The staff is friendly and caring. I have noticed a high level of parent involvment. The staff take extra precaution to ensure the safety of the children.
—Submitted by Stephanie, a parent

They have a very high student teacher ratio even after they added extra teachers. The school zones have been changed so hopefully this will improve for the school year 2004-05.
—Submitted by Kelsea Black, a parent

We have been very pleased with our children's educational experience at Hidden Oak. The Principal's desire for excellence by every person in the school is reflected in the classroom and individual child. The teachers strive to meet each child's individual educational and social needs. They develop a personal relationship and bond with their students and families that enforces the educational experience. My children are challenged daily in the classroom and show a continuous desire for achieving their best. We have been impressed by every teacher at Hidden Oak. The Principal truly hires the best teachers! We recommend Hidden Oak without reservation to any family in Alachua County.
—Submitted by Lillian Swanger, a parent

The school population has increased to more than the school was built to handle. class rooms are being held in portable buildings and in the center of all grade quads. Rezoning is about to take place in the Alachua County schools, which should help this problem. The teachers really care about the children and do a wonderful job in teaching.