Arbor Ridge K-8

School has fantastic PTSA, caring and educated staff, fantastic administration. Poor ratings below are unfortunately due to disgruntled individuals who could not bully the school staff to get their way or were not able to hear anything negative about their children. No one is "trained" to cover up mistakes however, everyone is expected to treat students with love, respect and equality. Therefore, every child deserve equal focus.
—Submitted by a parent

I have nothing good to say about this school. Principal and teachers are rude and very unprofessional. They only care about themselves and love to cover up their mistakes. They are very well trained to do this.

Wonderful staff and curriculum. I trust them completely and they provide a wonderful environment for learning.
—Submitted by a parent

Don't judge a book by it's cover. The school may be old and dirty and my kids try not to use the bathrooms, but we love it. The principal is a keeper and my kids like that EVERYONE has to follow the rules. The classes are tough! Slackers need not apply. Homework is as much a part of your life as breathing which is why the FCAT scores are so great. AR is slated to get a new building soon so the bathroom thing is only for a little while longer. I have 3 kids there now and can't WAIT to get my youngest in there too. Hopefully she'll win the lottery like my others.
—Submitted by a parent

Arbor Ridge is the greatest school ever! Though their rules are rather strict at times, it prevents the school (specifically the middle school) from being like any normal school. I am never afraid to walk in the hallways alone, or to even walk from class to class. The academics are great, I love the one on one attention and the challenges that are thrown at me. I truly feel I am prepared for high school in another year!
—Submitted by a student

My youngest son was lucky enough to go to Arbor Ridge from k-8th grade, it was the best thing that could have happened to him. The teachers really took an interest in him as well as every other student in the school. My son lost his dad in the 6th grade and had a really hard time with it. The family at ARS were wonderful to him. They took a really sad time and helped me to turn it around. Two of my granddaughters attend one in 1st grade and one in the 7th. I cannot say enough about the school, the staff, the teachers etc. I was blessed to have my son there for 8 years and he is excelling becasue of the school and the staff.
—Submitted by a parent

In comparison to other Orange County public schools I had to deal with, the staff at Arbor Ridge seemed to really care about the students and family and wanted what was best for everyone as a whole. I do wish that Orange County Public Schools would get their schools to have the same guidlines accross the board, it would make for a less confusing experience, especially for those new to the area. In comparison to other public schools I've had experience with in other states, even Arbor Ridge, probably the best in Orange County, is far lacking the proper resources needed for today's students. Florida really needs to figure out that educating kids right today will lead to a better future.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been a teacher and parent at Arbor Ridge since 1994. I think the school is one of the best in Orange County. The teachers and staff provide the children with the best education possible.
—Submitted by a parent

Starting from the Principal to the teacher. They're caring individuals that work hard to see every student excel.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved here from another state about four months ago. I am very dissappointed in the school. They focus too much on the FCATS. Every child learns at their own pace, don't force it on them so much. He had great work and behavior at his old school. Every since he started its been nothing but bad according to the teacher. I have no problems at home. I think if the teacher cannot handle the students they need an assistant in the class so the children get more attention which his other school had, I think that made a big difference.
—Submitted by a parent

Arbor ridge is a wonderful school, with wonderful staff that take pride of there school.
—Submitted by a parent

Arbor Ridge is an excellent school with teachers who go beyond the call of duty to ensure the students succeed. Since 1992, both my boys attended from Kindergarten through 8th grade. (My eldest graduated IB from Winter Park High and is now finishing his sophomore year at FSU.) My youngest is finishing 8th grade. Both principals, former Principal Mr. Ralph Hewitt and current principal Ms. Paige Tracey are extremely dedicated individuals and it shows. There could be more extra-curricular activities and P.E. for Middle School, but I have no complaints about the Academics. Kudos to Arbor Ridge for their dedicated teachers and staff and for laying the education foundation that has prepared my sons for high school, college, and beyond. You're the greatest!
—Submitted by a parent

Not very satisfied: Poor attendance at the pta. Administration does not foster open communication, and imposes decisions. Web site not updated. Academics: driven by cat testing! Stress on reading in lower grades k-2, over writing and math; upper grades: strong curriculum, but no good facilities and labs. Do not recommend!
—Submitted by a parent

Arbor Ridge School is a great school! The teachers really want the students to be successful, and not just for the FCAT. Unfortunately, the school is getting older.
—Submitted by a parent

I was so disappointed in this school. This is supposed to be an awesome school and it was far from it. I can't even begin to tell you all the problems I have had with the principal. There was no communication between the principal, teachers and parents. I do not recommend this school.
—Submitted by a parent

I have three children in Arbor Ridge,one in 1st,one in 5th,and the oldest is entering the sixth grade.I can only hope the middle school is as good as the elementary school.So far they have all had great experiences.They truly look out for all the children,their Exceptional Education programs are known to be among the best in Orange County,and I hear their gifted programs are good,too.It would be nice if they had more sports,especially in the Middle School.Basketball would be especially popular,I have heard alot of children complain that all they have is track.Overall,though,it is a great school.
—Submitted by a parent

We love this school! Could not have asked for better teachers. The teachers brought each childs gift out. The acedemics were great - extra help provided when needed. (the teacher approached us) Harder work was given when the student could handle it. There could be more parent involvement and the campus looks very sad. But the education is top. I'm sorry that the school only goes to 8th grade. They are lacking for any real sports programs for the middle school. Also no PE classes for the middle school - which is when they kids really need it. Would like to see that change. They work well with the SLD and Gifted kids. The only way to get into the middle school program is through a lottery system. Take a chance and try to get your child in - it is a fantastic school. Great Safety/no tolerance for fights/trash talk.
—Submitted by a parent

It needs more parent and teacher involvement.
—Submitted by a parent

So far I am deeply dissapointed in this school. I just moved here form across town from a very good school called Sunrise. This is supposed to be a Magnet School, for what? I have nothing positive to say.
—Submitted by a parent

Arbor ridge is a very good shool. The staff beleives in helping the kids to learn and it pays off.
—Submitted by a parent