Tommie Barfield Elementary School

Tommie Barfield has excellent teachers. Unfortunately, every year 2 or more teachers transfer to other schools because the intimidating and unfair leadership style of the principal. Some of the best teachers have left to go to other schools. Many teachers are afraid to complain to the school board because of retaliation from the administration. A handful of teachers who have left have complained to the superintendent, yet the same principal has been the for 10 years.
--Submitted by a parent

My opinion is that it is a great school depending on the teacher your childs gets. I have 2 children who attend and I have only been impressed by 2 teachers out of the other 3 because they were inexperienced, and not caring in the students as individuals. My childs teacher this year, however, is amazing. I speak with many of the parent because we are involved and most agree that this school expects "robot" children. They must fit a mold, very strict with all ages. My child gets approx 15 min recess and 20 min lunch. I do believe rules are VERY important and must be at the forefront but not in the manner they handle it. I am disappointed in this. I do believe the children learn a lot though and are ahead of that curve mores then other local schools. Also, I have had many issues with bullying of my child and it seems this school "brushes" it off as a "get over it, bullying happens" attitude. Some of the staff members in the office are also rude and short with parents. My siblings and I attended this school as well as my children so I feel that I have a pretty good strong evidence based opinion. I am looking forward to finding a better school at the end of the year.
--Submitted by a parent

I had all three of my kids go through TBE and I feel so very fortunate to have been able to send them to a great school. The principal now is Dr J. Westberry who runs a tight ship and years back we had Charles Fronz who was great also. Many, many good teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter was doing 'okay' upon entering school (kindergarten) but was not exceling and wasn't focused or interested. As we lucked out -- we found the teachers to be flexible yet focused; tolerant, individually accommodating universally which to me is almost impossible; daughter's enthusiasm for learning, reading, writing, etc., soared. On FCAT practice she would consistently get 43% to 72%. Now she consistently receives/earnes 84% to 100% (100% frequently). All grades have gone from high 60's to mid 70's and now consistently earnes high 90's and 100's. (O's and S+'s). The principal is amazing and is always 'there'. Thank you Tommie Barfield!!
--Submitted by a parent

Tommie Barfield is unbelieveable with wonderful and caring teachers who go above and beyond for their students. It makes for a fantastic learning environment! I would not have wanted my children to go anywhere else.
--Submitted by a parent

It has some wonderful teachers and a great program. Being a small resort town, it could use all the money it can get.
--Submitted by a parent

Tommie Barfield Elementary is a #1 superior school! The Principal is wonderful! She is loved by the children. She sometimes starts the day appearing on the schoolwide televised 'Morning Show' teaching in an entertaining & fun way. She always encourages 'school spirit' and learning can be fun. The teachers phenomimal! Students are encouraged to excel to their full potential by challenging themselves while make school fun and interesting.
--Submitted by a parent

The teachers are incredible - approachable, receptive, dedicated, and innovative. Administratively, the focus is one dimensional. Preparation for the FCAT is the main focus. Kids aren't given enough time for socializing, physical activity, or the related arts. Teachers don't appear to be given the latitude to teach according to their inidividual passions. The principal is not responsive to parents--unless it suits her needs or agenda. Policies are way too rigid. Kids can't even play tag at recess. They have a lot of work to do. Students are controlled and numb to authority, which is more due to inconsistency outside of the classroom.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter just recently attended T.B.E. I love the teachers and the principal is dedicated to her work. I definitely agree with the leadership and discipline the school has. The school is a 5 out of 5.
--Submitted by a parent

The spalding methode for learning reading and writing is absoly great. Very intusiastic teachers.
--Submitted by a teacher