Cunningham Creek Elementary School

My grandson is in ESE and I couldn't ask for a better education and more caring teachers. The attention he has received in the last two years has helped him significantly move most of his classes to general ed whichnInthought would never happen. I moved tonthis area specifically to get him into this school.
—Submitted by a parent

This school does not cater to ESE kids although they act like they do. Most parents have had to transfer their kids out to other schools, even those schools in Duval County to accord them better education. However, if your child is not ESE, then you will be pretty happy. its those FCAT scores that count, not the fair education of all children.

The principal seems to be very involved with the school, is very pleasant to talk with, and the children seem to like him. The teachers I've met are capable and knowledgable and make learning fun for our kindergartener. The extended day administrator, however, is not very pleasant and I get conflicting instruction on when and where to pick up my child after extended day. The school has done several special events to involve the family, all well-done. They have excellent communication weekly by newsletter. They only have "resources" 3 times a week though (library, computers, PE, or music), which I really wish they offered more often (I think this is county-wide; it's not just this school). We're trying to get around that "deficiency" by paying for extracurriculars. Overall we're currently happy with this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Very limited academic programs: This was a terrific school, in a terrific district, until 2009. After 2009 the gifted program was eliminated in favor of an FCAT "achiever" program that no longer serves the gifted student needs, and no longer allows for acceleration, creativity or flexible teaching. FCAT now rules in this district, which is very sad. It was a wonderful district, very child-centered, until the steep decline that began with dismantling the gifted program and quickly plummeted in 2009. Some teachers are good, some are not, but if you have a gifted child, this school is a shell of its former glory, as is this district. The principal/leadership is approachable and involved, but all is focused on rote learning for standard grade level tests and school scores. It's the age of the FCAT standard ed "achiever." If you're looking for strong academics, this school/ district is now focused on rote minimum grade level academics.
—Submitted by a parent

Before you even view the campus, paging through the comprehensive school web site with its many links of activities and events will tip you off that this is an extraordinary school! The principal and her staff are dedicated to meeting each child's academic and emotional needs. The children not only excel in state testing measures, they are also taught to be caring and compassionate individuals and future leaders. In a county of good public schools, this little elementary is the most sparkling jewel!
—Submitted by a parent

My daughters go to this school and it is wonderful. PS teachers rock!!!!!!!
—Submitted by a parent

My child graduated 5th grade in 2009. From PreK to fifth under the leadership of 3 principals has been a blessing with all three. The current principal, Mrs. Weirda, has the bar set high and all students are taught on a higher level. She has given the children ownership of their education. They are taught to be self motivators, by setting their own goals and revisiting them throughout the year and setting new ones once they have mastered their goal. The children are excited about learning. Before and after school children are walking through the hall with books open reading, reading is a true passion for many of the students. I would recomend this school to any child. A child with learning challenges will not slip through the cracks. Gifted children are challenged. This school also has programs that reach out to their local community in need.
—Submitted by a parent

Very dedicated principal, good teachers all around. My only complaint is the awful cafeteria food! Reading is highly encouraged, diversity is valued in learning styles. Gifted programs are getting better each year as well.
—Submitted by a parent

Moved from California to a beautiful location with an excellent school here in Saint Johns. Love the leadership,the parent involvement,the discipline and all the great encouragement for the love of reading.
—Submitted by a parent

I've had 5 children filter through this school under the guidance of two phenomenal principals! Mrs. Wierda is a learning leader who seeks excellence and directs her teachers in such a way that ensures the students success. The focus is always on the students and providing them with the best learning environment and learning leaders possible.
—Submitted by a parent

The new principle serving the last 3 years is phenominal! She is open minded and egar to learn about each students unique learning style. Mrs. Wierda does what ever she can to ensure that the students have a positive and successful learning experience.
—Submitted by a parent

Overall quality of this school...I give it a 10! My son had problems in kindergarten and the staff went above and beyond to help him. The help is still in progress, he is now in 2nd grade and is doing wonderful! We feel this is our home school and would recommend it to anyone. Higher education!
—Submitted by a parent

excellent school. Moved from Jacksonville (Duval County) just so our kids could go here and we have not been disappointed. Rated one of the highest schools in Florida on FCAT scores.
—Submitted by a parent