Pinecrest Elementary School

I know lots of other mothers of Pinecrest students who are considering magnet programs for their children because the school isn't well run or effective. Yes, there are some excellent teachers here from the old days, but so many of the other teachers are just average. The gifted program is huge and, I'm sorry, there simply aren't that many gifted children in the population, so something funny is going on. The content seems to be additional homework, which the parent has to explain to the child. I's true what the previous reviewer said about the Spanish program. They draw pictures while the teachers are preoccupied with other things, like smoking. The PTA is buying smart boards for the classrooms so that teachers never have to come out from behind their computers. Hooray!
--Submitted by a parent

Most of the reviews for this school are from 6 years ago, when Pinecrest Elementary was at the top. Yes, they now have a full time gifted program, but the gifted kids are separated from the "regular" kids. The PTA is inactive outside of the school, never advocating for improvements from the state or county. The Spanish teachers are absolutely ineffective. My daughter came home upset because two of the Spanish teachers were arguing during class. The music program has been the same for years. Nothing new, no encouraging kids to participate, except in the yearly plays where you will only get the good roles if you're a favorite. There is no stimulation in art class, each year, the same project. It's a stale school. Be prepared to donate, donate, donate or your child will be invisible.
--Submitted by a parent

This school does not have teachers prepared for inclusive programs. General Theachers have no knowledge and preparation of how to work with children with special needs in their classroom. This are times that all educators should be updated with trainning and have hight expectations on their students to help them succeed.
--Submitted by a parent

My children attend this school and I have been very happy with the quality of the school and the teachers (particularly given the price). While parental involvement is substantial, many of the teachers are wonderful and dedicated and go above and beyond to help their students. They are transitioning to a full time gifted program in the next year. I am particularly thrilled with the tremendous cultural and ethnic diversity of the school. My children truly have the opportunity to mix with and learn from children of all nationalities, colors, religions, and cultures.
--Submitted by a parent

Now that the school class size is in the low 20's, this school is tops. Great teachers, Involvement by the parents who also provide lots of funding for extras makes this school the closest thing to a private school without the huge tuition payments.
--Submitted by a parent

My children just transferred to Pinecrest Elementary. So far I am impressed with the power of the PTA and the degree of parental involvement. The school is at the mercy of a large public school system and its rules. School funded activities are few. Its evident the enrichment and afterschool activities exist because the PTA runs them. Nonethless, academics is a priority and the curriculum is fair and tailored to each child.
--Submitted by a parent

Pinecrest is an excellent public school. Although there are up to 30 kids in a class, the teachers are very good at managing the numbers and getting the job done. Alot of parent involvement and well behaved motivated kids.
--Submitted by a parent

Quality of academic programs seems to be good. Good music program, standard art program and good extracurricular activities. Very good parent involvement.
--Submitted by a parent

While this is a well funded public school with a great reputation, I have been less than thrilled with the experiance my children have had. I like to refer to the principle as the warden. Her unwillingness to communicate with parents makes it very difficult to feel like you can really address any problems your children may be having. The loose parameters for the gifted program make Pincrest an ideal place for parents who believe thier own children to be genius. Over all I find it an average public school with a blown out of proportion ego and reputation.
--Submitted by a parent

excellant, they try hard to give a personalized education.
--Submitted by a parent