Valleyview Elementary School

My first impression was that I found the office staff and prinicipal rather cold and uncooperative, I chalked it up to them just having a bad day but a yr later unfortunately the first impression stands. Teacher parent communication is discouraged to the point of being dismissive, the main concern is only FCAT scores not the overall learning experience, Arts are ignored and barely any extracurricular activities. Dissapointing experience.
--Submitted by a parent

My initial response to this school was that it puts way too much pressure on parents and students for FCAT (just to keep their A status). I was not impressed by my child's teacher at first but after several meeting with her she has shown she does want what is best for my child, as for the school itself I still feel they are not as friendly as they appear to be, and academics is their only concern. The child in whole should be their priority not their standings! The 'Arts' is not considered and that is very sad to see. I would not recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

In the aftermath of Katrina we came to Lakeland more than halfway through the school year. We were worried that our son would not adjust well to a new school as he was having some post traumatic stress and seperation issues. It was a tough time for him. When we registered him at Vallyview we let the staff and principal know what was going on. They were amazing ! They took him around and told him about the school and asked him questions. They didn't pity him or let on what they knew. On his first day of school they were ready when we arrived. We called ahead to let them know he was already in tears. They took it from there. He had a great day and made friends quickly. It was all uphill from there. We are eternally grateful and highly recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

We moved here in the middle of the school year and our first thought was this place it too structured. We read reviews and worried too much emphasis was placed on testing and academics. We have been so pleased with our sons progress. He is challenged and has advanced his reading level by 3 grades in 8 months. His teacher is always prepared and happy to answer any quesions or address any concerns. We are so happy we did not let the few negative reviews affect our decision. This is an amazing school and we feel our son is safe and well cared for.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been wonderful for my children. I thought it would be overwhelming for my son entering kindergarten because of the school's size, but he's adjusted very well. The teachers are tough and caring at the same time which means a lot. I love this school and don't won't my kids going to any other.
--Submitted by a parent

Principal, Staff, Teachers, Alpha program...in one word, fantastic! I am amazed that this is a public school and could not have picked better if I had unlimited resources. Safety, progressive education, computer resources, clean, Alpha program, Chess Club, friendly, involved, structured in the most positive manner, and challenging to the average child. I would gladly pay to send our son here. I give Valleyview my highest recommendation!
--Submitted by Mary, a parent

I have been a Valleyview parent since 2000 and cannot recommend this school more highly. I have volunteered hundreds of hours and have been nothing but impressed by the teachers and staff. The year-round schedule is wonderful and the children thrive with no startup and shutdown problems. The school also feels smaller than it's enrollment count as there is always a chunk of students 'off track' at all times.
--Submitted by a parent

Great School - My son loves it and feels challenged.
--Submitted by a parent

I have known about this school for 10 years; the teachers are more worried about FCAT then how they teach their students, they are quick to judge.
--Submitted by a parent

My experience at VV was horrific. I encountered nothing but resistance when I wanted to be an 'involved parent'. There is no joy, just high test scores. Academics are important but so is the joy and love of learning. If you'd like a happy well-rounded, well-educated child go somewhere else!
--Submitted by a parent