Good Shepherd Day School

In the 2010/2011 academic year we really thought things were going well at the school. However, as another person has put, the Prinicpal who had been a valuable member of staff for almost 7 years disapeared into thin air. The Principal was the sole reason for implementing Project Child although many senior members were against the program. He increased student role to over 80 children - a first at the school! It is interesting to read what the new Principal has put in the April comments - what did the old Principal do wrong if the school still uses the same program!!!!!! IReports are stating that numbers are as low as 36 students - Why if before the old Principal left were they an all time high? Go to this school with real caution and open eyes and ears. A former concerned parent.
--Submitted by a parent

Good Shepherd is an awesome school with wonderful new leadership. We are thrilled!!! The school is moving in the right direction.
--Submitted by a parent

We left this year, due to constant changes, loss of a good Principal and a church that has no idea how to educate. We are better off now!
--Submitted by a parent

In less then 3 year going on 5th principal at school. Church does not listen to parents. Only hears what they want to hear. To many hypocrites!!!
--Submitted by a parent

vanishing principal, church vestry as school board has seen to that don't know what to think or do. The principal was great,really great. too bad, this is now a sinking ship.
--Submitted by a parent

Our 11 year-old son James has done exceptionally well at this school which he has attended since he was 3. One of his teachers advised us that he would do best if we advanced him one grade and he has responded beautifully. No school is completely free of dfficulties, especially while it is trying to get established. What is amazing about this school is the dedication of the teachers who have consistently provided an academically challenging environment which encourages creativity. Every teacher has been enthusiastic about teaching, and each has their own unique strengths. Most importantly, the school fosters respect and concern for others and the world. We can see this in our son. We have 3 children and have been through various private and public schools in Sarasota and Charlotte counties. We love this school and hope it continues to grow.
--Submitted by a parent

Overall we've been quite happy with Good Shepherd. Our child has been attending for the past 5 years, starting with 1 1/2 years of preschool. The school has an excellent curriculum and is very strong in music but as noted in a prior post, the student body size has limited the sports facilities and related opportunities. The post written a year ago that spoke of problems involving a new principal is out-of-date. The problems have been met, dealt with, and the school is once again thriving.
--Submitted by a parent

Outstanding. The small class size, personalization and concern from administration, staff and teachers, expanded curriculum which includes strings from 2nd grade up, chimes from K-up (music!), art, and focus on character education contributes to the overall experience. They are receiving a life education, not just academics. My son was transferred from a much larger public elementary school, initially struggled because the academic rigor was more intense, but the 1 on 1 attention and student interaction helped him progress quickly. He is now achieving at a much higher level with far less anxiety. We can't afford this school, but we were able to enroll thanks to McKay Scholarship because he has an IEP, and I am applying for the pride scholarship online at www.psas.org. My first exposure to the students from the school were the violinists playing with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. Kudos!
--Submitted by a parent

since the new principal came this school has suffered dramatically. they have lost so many children and parents alike. the school needs an overhaul in administration and leadership
--Submitted by a parent

Fantastic school, my son has been there since he was 7 months old. This site needs updating. The school now goes to grade 8. It is costly but the kids get the best education that there is. Plus it has small class sizes. This means you know pretty much all the teachers and most of the parents. The best way to go if you can afford it.
--Submitted by a parent