Dr. Edward L. Whigham Elementary School

I transferred my child to Whigham after being unhappy with his progress at another local "A" school. Since he's being at Whigham he's received caring personal attention from all of his teachers. I'm very pleased with the school and the committment of the teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

FCAT is required in all schools. The teachers make learning fun and meaningful at this school. As a parent it is our job to reinforce what they learn at school at home.
--Submitted by a parent

As a military member and parent my family and I travel quite a bit. My son has been to a lot of different schools and I've dealt with many different issues personally just in schools alone. But being in Whigham this year was easy. The staff and principal made it there business to know both my son and myself. They made us feel welcome, and the new principal there is just a breath of life for these kids. She's always available and always puts the kids first. There was always something new to build school pride and unity. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants there children to learn both in the class room and out.
--Submitted by a parent

I strongly disagree with some of the negative comments made regarding Whigham. Based on last experience with this school, I must say that with the new principal there's been dramatic changes. The new principal is very involved in the school & ALWAYS has time to meet with parents regarding any concerns,not like the previous principal who was NEVER there or NEVER had time. This principal is always available & makes this school VERY WELCOMING. As a parent, I appreciate it when a principal introduces herself & is interest about my opinions or any concerns I might have. I HIGHLY recommend this school, because I feel that this school is just as great as the other schools. I would not hesitate one second in keeping my children at Whigham. I love the school, the administration, PTA & the teachers. All parents need to make their own judgement & not based it on what she said and he said. Also, when it comes to safety, I recommend Whigham verses the other schools, because of the various entrances those schools have, anybody can enter those schools, whereas Whigham, there's only one entrance for any visitor to enter. Ultimately, the school is great and so is the new administration.
--Submitted by a parent

Last year this school was okay, but this year it is absolutely terrible. It's supposed to be an elementary school but the children are treated as if they were in middle or high school. Most of the children are unhappy and I know this because my own child and the children of our neighbors no longer want to go to thsi school. I have trouble daily just to get my child to go to school. I want to transfer mt child to a better school There are some very good teachers there, but the administration of the school is not good. and both my child and I are very dissatisfied. Plus due to that stupid FCAT they rush the children through everything and as a consequence they aren't really learning so the children require the parents to teach them. I am a working parent and don't have the time to teach my child during the week, so I do it on the weekend. What child wants that? So either you teach our child or put the child in tutoring either private or school sponsored if you qualify. As I see it this is not education. FCAT must go. This school needs a total overhaul.
--Submitted by a parent

Last year I hated this school, I still can't believe how bad it was. But now there is a new principle and in a short amount of time she has truly turned this school around. Every week there is something new going on that is uplifting and encouraging for the students there is a real sense of pride from the faculty and the students now. This is a great school for any child to attend.
--Submitted by a parent

THE PRINCIPAL AND VICE PRINCIPAL ARE CRUEL AND UNFAIRLY TREATS GOOD STUDENTS.I HAVE SEEN SOME TEACHERS YELL AT STUDENTS. I WOULD STAY FAR AWAY FROM THIS SCHOOL. THEY DO HAVE A FEW GOOD TEACHERS BUT THE OFFICE STAFF ARE UNPROFESSIONAL AND RUDE.
--Submitted by a parent

Whigham Elementary is an interesting school because although they do have strong teachers, the leadership is lacking. The principal does not return phone calls or meet with parents, and when she does, she is not professional by any means. This school lacks a sense of community. Also, administration is rarely seen at school events. As a result of all of the problems and issues I have seen happen with no consequence, I plan to withdraw my kids at the end of this school year.
--Submitted by a parent

I love the teachers and they are very helpful, however the principal could use alot of work! I haven't been happy since she came to the school.
--Submitted by a parent

My son attends this school,but it is not by choice.If i was given the option to pick a school Whigham would not evn be a choice. there is a lot of room for improvement in their teaching methods and skills. Just because it is a small school and it is in the Cutler Bay area; doesnt mean that parents do not notice the quality of education.Teachers send papers home called 'wish lists'. saying that budget is low and asking for things they need for the classroom.
--Submitted by a parent