Plantation Oaks Elementary School

I agree with the previous poster. This school places a LOT of emphasis on the FCAT--at this point, most are just "teaching the test." As a parent, that's incredibly frustrating. Most of the teachers really are wonderful, but their hands are tied. I would discuss this (& other things) with the principal, but as so many before me have stated, she's unapproachable to the point of being rude. There's a SERIOUS lack of communication between the school and the parents, & with the way this area is growing (more families, more school-age children), it isn't going to get any better unless something changes. New administration & more parent involvement (yes, a PTA would be wonderful) would do this school a world of good!
--Submitted by a parent

My children have attended this school since it opened. Every one of their teachers has been amazing. I could not be more pleased with their level of caring and dedication. I do think that the principal could be more approachable. I feel that there is a LOT of emphasis from the administration on FCAT preparedness, and often, FUN seems to be frowned upon. I understand that we live in a world of standardized tests, but I think that organic learning often comes more easily in a fun and relaxed environment. Also, there is no PTA/PTO. There was one for the first year, and then nothing.
--Submitted by a parent

This is the greatest school! My kids have excelled here! The Principal is the best! Problems are taken care of immediately, calls are returned and our kids are safe!
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent of 3 boys who attend P.O.E... Overall I think its a good school not great. The front office staff can be a bit snippy. The teachers are okay. I think the school could be better with a nicer front office staff. I also think they need a better Awards Ceremony for A or AB students. Other schools in duval county get trophies for grades. My kids did not start to get even a certificate for grades until 2nd grade? Mrs. Seiple is the best teacher at P.O.E.
--Submitted by a parent

I have friends whose children attend this school and I hear nothing but great reviews from them. I have gone with them to visit the school and I was very impressed with ALL of the staff. The teachers were kind and seemed to really care about the children, the principal and assistant principal greeted parents and children alike with smiles and genuine happiness, and the other staff appeared to be happy to help with anything necessary. I can't wait until my daughter is old enough for Kindergarten, she will definitely be attending here!
--Submitted by a parent

My kids have attended POE since day one. The teachers are incredible and get better each year. The administration (Principal and Assistant) are caring, involved, knowledgable and fun - all the kids I've been around love them and especially like their FCAT skits. The school encourages growth in the basics and supports the arts. I'm honestly shocked by any negative comments and wonder if it may be something isolated that caused them.
--Submitted by a parent

I also agree with the other statements about the principal. I have first hand experience with her brushing off parent concerns. The school would be much better with a new principal.
--Submitted by a parent

I will have to agree with the other person. I have also had the same problems with the principle. On the first day of school their first year my children were supposed to be parent pickup. Only problem was my middle child got sent home on the bus... on the wrong bus at that. When I went through the line they sent me to park in the parking lot so they could find her. About 10 minutes went by and the principles secretary came out to tell me that the kids were in wrong school. Someone hadn't done their job and put the information into the computer that I had given them. I could go on and on about this school!
--Submitted by a parent